Programme

Arts / Religious Studies

Overview

Religious Studies is an academic discipline that explores the beliefs, practices, texts, and cultural aspects of various religions. Higher degree programs in Religious Studies provide advanced education and training for individuals interested in studying religion from a scholarly perspective. Here is a general overview of the course content in Religious Studies:

Comparative Religion: 

• This course introduces students to the foundational concepts of major world religions, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and others. Students compare and contrast their beliefs, rituals, texts, and historical development.

Theology and Philosophy of Religion: 

• Students study the theological and philosophical aspects of religion. They explore questions related to the nature of God, religious experiences, ethics, faith and reason, and the role of religion in society.

Religious Texts and Scriptures: 

• This course focuses on the sacred texts of different religions. Students analyze the historical context, literary style, interpretation, and significance of religious scriptures.

Sociology of Religion: 

• Students examine the social dimensions of religion. They explore topics such as religious communities, religious identity, religious rituals, secularization, and the relationship between religion and society.

Anthropology of Religion: 

• This course delves into the cultural and anthropological aspects of religion. Students study religious rituals, symbolism, myths, and the role of religion in shaping cultural practices.

Religious Ethics: 

• Students explore ethical teachings and moral principles within various religious traditions. They examine how religious beliefs influence ethical decision-making and address contemporary ethical issues.

History of Religion: 

• This course covers the historical development of religions, tracing their origins, spread, and transformations over time. Students study key historical events, religious leaders, and the interactions between religions.

Gender and Religion: 

• Students examine the intersections of religion and gender. They explore how religious traditions have influenced gender roles, expectations, and women's participation in religious practices.

Research Methods in Religious Studies: 

• This course equips students with research skills necessary for conducting academic studies in religious studies. Students learn about qualitative and quantitative research methods, data collection, and analysis.

Religious Pluralism and Dialogue: 

• This course explores the challenges and opportunities of religious diversity. Students study interfaith dialogue, religious tolerance, and the role of religion in fostering understanding and peace.

Few/Some of the Course Content

 

AFS 761	THEORY AND PRACTICE OF AFRICAN TRADITIONAL MEDCINE
RES 791	PROJECT
RES 782	ATONEMENT AS LOCUS OF THEOLOGY IN MEDIEVAL CHRISTIANITY
RES 752	CHRISTIAN SOCIAL ETHICS
RES 771	DEVELOPMENT OF CHRISTIANITY IN AFRICA
RES 736	THE KINGDOM OF GOD
RES 732	THE RELIGION OF SAINT PAUL
RES 725	AFRICANS AND AFRICANESS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT SUTDIES
RES 726	SITUATION THEOLOGY
RES 727	ISSUES IN THE SUCCESSION NARRATIVE
RES 791	PROJECT
RES 783	THE CHURCHES AND CHRISTIAN UNITY IN THE MODERN PERIOD
RES 784	CHRISTIOLOGY AND SOTERIOLOGY IN THE EARLY CHURCH
RES 782	ATONEMENT AS LOCUS OF THEOLOGY IN MEDIEVAL CHRISTIANITY
RES 780	CONTEMPORARY TRENDS IN CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY
RES 781	BEGINNINGS OF CONTEXTUAL THEOLOGY IN THE EARLY CHURCH
RES 775	CHARISMATIC AND PENTECOSTAL MOVEMENTS
RES 776	THE EARLY AFRICAN CHURCH FATHERS
RES 774	CONTROVERSIES AND THE EARLY CHURCH COUNCILS
RES 770	THE DEVELOPMENT OF PROTESTANTISM
RES 766	THE LOGIC AND CONSEQUENCES OF PROSPERITY PREACHING

Entry Requirement

Facilities

Career Path

Graduates of higher degree programs in Religious Studies have diverse career opportunities in various sectors. Here are some common career paths in Religious Studies:

University Professor: 

• Many graduates become university professors, teaching religious studies courses at colleges and universities. They contribute to academic research, publish scholarly works, and mentor students.

Religious Educator: 

• Graduates can work as educators in religious institutions, teaching theology, ethics, and religious history to students in religious schools or seminaries.

Interfaith and Community Outreach: 

• Graduates can work in organizations focused on promoting interfaith dialogue, religious tolerance, and community engagement. They may facilitate workshops, organize events, and promote understanding among different religious groups.

Nonprofit and NGOs: 

• Graduates can work for nonprofit organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that focus on humanitarian efforts, social justice, or advocacy related to religion and human rights.

Journalism and Writing: 

• Some graduates become journalists, writers, or bloggers, covering religious issues, spirituality, and cultural aspects of different religions.

Counseling and Chaplaincy: 

• Graduates with specialized training can work as counselors or chaplains, providing emotional and spiritual support to individuals in healthcare settings, prisons, military, and other institutions.

Cultural and Heritage Organizations: 

• Graduates can work in museums, cultural centers, and heritage organizations that aim to preserve and promote the cultural and religious traditions of various communities.

Government and Diplomacy: 

• Some graduates work in government agencies or diplomatic services, providing expertise on religious and cultural matters in international relations and policy-making.

It's important to note that the career paths in Religious Studies are diverse and can vary based on individual interests, specialisation areas, and geographic location. Graduates may also choose to pursue further education, such as a Ph.D., for advanced research and teaching opportunities.

Supervisor(s)

Fees

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