This course is for those who want to ask deep questions about what it means to be human, to examine answers to such questions, and the way that those answers – religious and otherwise – have shaped global events, cultures and societies.
Our students don’t just study what others have said, or learn names, dates and beliefs. They are historians and scholars of religion, investigating and interpreting events and evidence, practices and ideas for themselves, in order to understand the development of individual, social and cultural identities.
Unique placement, field trip and study abroad opportunities complement learning on the course. Previous destinations have included the USA, Canada, India and Spain, as well as various UK destinations. A variety of guest speakers, as well as local and international partnerships with museums, archives and religious communities will also enrich your learning.
You’ll become an independent practitioner, researcher and critical thinker. Working closely with subject experts as you develop deep knowledge in your field, you’ll gain highly desirable skills in investigative, analytical research and communication.
Hands-on experience with historical documents and artefacts, as well as the close examination of religious texts and ideas, will also help you to build essential skills for work within and beyond university.
The course offers specialist strands in British, European, American and Soviet history, as well as in the major world religions (Islam, Judaism, Christianity, Hinduism and Buddhism), new expressions of spirituality and non-religious movements. This rich curriculum allows you to shape your studies in ways that match your interests.
Study style
Course delivery is by lecture, seminar, tutorial and student-led sessions, complemented by active use of digital technologies. Small group discussions allow tutors to connect with students, facilitating excellent support for learning and strong group identity. Module options allow students to pursue their interests and shape their own studies.
Entry requirements
Tariff information for 2020 entry
Typical offers
BBC at A levels, DMM at BTEC or use a combination of your qualifications to achieve the required tariff total.
Mature Applicants: We welcome applications from mature students (aged 21 and over) and do not necessarily require the same academic qualifications as school leaving applicants.
Grade 4/C in GCSE English and Mathematics (or equivalent) are normally required.
If you don't meet your tariff points total we may still consider your application.
Please contact our admissions team if you have a question.
Fees
See the further details of fees and potential extra costs when studying a course at the University of Gloucestershire.
UCAS codes
| UCAS codes available for this subject |
|---|
| BA (Hons) - 3 years full-time | V160 |
| BA (Hons) - 4 years placement | V161 |
| BA (Hons) - 4 years integrated foundation | V162 |
Careers
- Heritage and museums
- Third sector/NGO/Charities
- Publishing
- Teaching
- Human Resources
- Media/Journalism
- Social Care
- Research and Consultancy
- Politics
Industry links
Our partnerships with local archives and museums, as well as links with local and national religious communities, allow students to examine their learning in professional and lived contexts. Fieldtrips, projects and placement opportunities facilitate hands-on engagement with heritage, social and religious organizations, providing opportunities to gain professional level skills and experiences.
Staff Profile
Martin Wood
"I encourage students to value open dialogue, put asside assumptions and develop qualities of empathy and insight."
Gain an excellent grasp of key historical events and developments, as well as of religious values and trends. Understand the ways in which belief and history intersect in shaping one another and our ever-changing world.
As a scholar in your field – not just a student – become an independent researcher in a supportive environment. Grow your intellectual initiative. Enjoy opportunities to challenge yourself in developing skills in the ethical, evaluative interpretation of texts, events and ideas.