M.Phil. Christian Theology

Course Description

This Masters in Christian Theology provides students with the opportunity to gain an in-depth knowledge of core issues in Christian theology and to develop skills of critical thinking in relation to them. Students are introduced to historical scholarship and to rigorous contemporary theological investigation.

The focus on theological studies of the highest academic standing prepares students to contribute to public debates on theological issues in contemporary societies.

The M.Phil. is currently taught by Loyola staff in the School of Religion.

The M.Phil. is delivered full-time over one year (12 months) or part-time over two years. Lectures will normally be held on Monday and Thursday evenings. Some elective modules may be held during the day.

There are a number of scholarships available. See www.tcd.ie/loyola-institute for details.

Structure
The course incorporates both taught and research components. Students must take six taught modules (10 ECTS each) comprising three core and three optional modules and write a 15,000 – 20,000 word dissertation (30 ECTS). Students are assessed via written contributions for each module.

Core Modules

• Violence and Grace in the Human Narrative
• The First Words: Theology/ies of the Bible
• Readings in Classical Theological Texts
  

• Optional modules on offer may include:
• Jesus of Nazareth: Son, Christ, Word
• Method and Theory in the Study of Theology
• Theology and the Arts
• Christianity of the Celtic World (600-1,000 AD)
• The Role of Church in a Pluralist Society
• Ministry and Church in a Challenging Era
• Nature, Grace and the Triune God*
• Authority, Tradition and Experience: Ecumenics as Intercultural Theology*

*Modules shared with the M.Phil. in Intercultural Theology and Interreligious Studies.
Note: Not all modules are offered each year.

Dissertation: A research dissertation (15,000 – 20,000 words) to be supervised by an appropriate member of staff and to be submitted in August. Students who complete the taught element of the programme but not the dissertation may be eligible for the postgraduate diploma.