School brochure religion

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Theology, Religious Studies and Islamic Studies

Lampeter/Carmarthen

uwtsd.ac.uk

Why study Religion?

“Religious Studies at TSD has brilliant teaching and the lecturers are always helpful and caring. The course has well-designed modules taught by experts. The study tour to Rome was a definite highlight, as well as the trips to various places of worship; they are always interesting and fun! Being a student representative enabled me to work closely with staff in order to get the most out of the degree and university experience.”

It is impossible to understand the world around us without some reference to religious belief and practice. Throughout history, religion has had a significant impact on the development of culture and society and it continues to influence how we see the world today. Religion hits the headlines almost every day, but it is frequently misunderstood and misinterpreted.

The academic study of religion offers a unique and powerful insight into faith and practice, enabling the development of sensitivity towards, and awareness of, a complex spectrum of human belief and activity. Whatever your own view of religion may be, a degree in this subject helps the development of understanding of and tolerance towards others, while it also nurtures analytical and evaluative skills. Students of religion are therefore well placed to compete in the world of work in the twentyfirst century.

A degree in Religious Studies or Theology draws on diverse academic approaches in order to open up various religious traditions, the dynamic influences that shape contemporary religious belief and practice, the impact of specific world-views on the life of the world, and the very basic questions which have troubled human beings from the dawn of time: Where do we come from? Why are we here?

Where are we going?

Scott Sullivan, BA Religious Studies

Why study at Trinity Saint David?

The University of Wales: Trinity Saint David is a dynamic organisation providing a range of opportunities for all its students. The University has a rich history of engagement in Theology and Religious Studies, which forms a firm foundation for the delivery of exciting, relevant and up-to-date programmes, geared towards preparing students to face the opportunities and challenges of contemporary life.

The Lampeter campus was founded as St David’s College in 1822. The College was the third degreeawarding institution in England and Wales after Oxford and Cambridge.

Theology was taught at the College from its foundation with Religious Studies and Islamic Studies being added more recently.

The Carmarthen campus was founded in 1848, later adopting the title Trinity College. Its main function in those days was the training of teachers, and this remains part of its activity today.

A thriving Religious Studies department had developed at the College by the time it merged with the University of Wales, Lampeter, in 2010.

89%

Students who come to UWTSD join an institution with a rich heritage in which the study of religion has

been central and where creative, innovative and supportive learning experiences have been developed for its students.

Religion and Theology are deeply embedded in the University’s history. There is a long tradition of excellence in teaching as well as a distinguished reputation in scholarship, research and publication. While rooted in an area which is rich in religious heritage, our programmes encompass a variety of topics which provide insights into the religious diversity of the twenty-first century world.

Whether you choose to study on our Lampeter or Carmarthen campus, the Trinity Saint David community is sufficiently large to provide a diverse learning experience as well as being intimate enough to provide a close community spirit.

There is a strong sense of kinship between students and staff, and select class sizes make teaching personal and individually rewarding.

Due to this informal atmosphere, no one needs to be intimidated by the work and lecturers are available to give informal advice outside timetabled teaching hours. We look to stretch students so that they will produce their best work, but we provide full and friendly support throughout their period of study.

of our students said that they were able to contact staff when they needed to.

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Careers with Religion and Theology The employability of our students is further enhanced by the School’s use of a wide range of assessments that are tailored to enhance the skills sought by employers in a variety of sectors. As well as more traditional methods of assessment such as essay writing and examinations, students will be introduced to innovative methods that include timed tasks, oral presentations (individually or as part of a group), travel journals, book reviews and even website analyses. The School’s programme evaluating information, for the employability of its students, ideas, arguments, principles which also involves working closely and theories; with the University’s Career Service, is designed to ensure that our communication skills, whether graduates have the skills set and written, oral or visual; confidence to explore a wide variety the ability to engage with, reflect of career paths. on, and critique the arguments of others;

The School’s undergraduate programmes provide students with subject-specific knowledge about religious beliefs and practices, as well as the history and contemporary impact of religion. These programmes are also designed to help students acquire a wide range of skills that can be applied to a variety of careers and professions. These valuable transferable skills include the following: •

•

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• undertaking independent , self- directed learning; • working collaboratively as a group; •

demonstrating critical self- awareness about one’s own beliefs, commitments and prejudices.

The skills developed by students during their undergraduate studies will open doors to many different occupations. Graduates in Religion or Theology go on to work in areas such as journalism and media, administration and management, teaching, law, social work and the civil service. The School is committed to providing its students with the best possible preparation for the world of work.

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“My time at University has been brilliant; Trinity Saint David has developed me as a person and has made me independent and who I am to day”.

Lauren Knowles, BA Religious Studies

80% of our students said that staff have made the subject interesting.

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Travel Opportunities and Study Abroad The School of Theology, Religious Studies and Islamic Studies is committed to offering students the opportunity to engage in educational experiences in different cultural settings, internationally.

Students on all our degree programmes can travel abroad, as part of their programme of study, for a week, a semester or for a year and the University offers a series of small bursaries to help students travel.

The Annual Fieldtrip Every year, we organise a study trip abroad for second- and third-year students. We travel to different cities in order to study and explore the variety of religious sites, places of worship and cultural traditions of the city. In the past, students have gone on fieldtrips to Jerusalem, Istanbul, Cairo, Rome and New York.

Many of our students take advantage of the opportunity to study abroad, particularly for a semester, primarily in North America. Study abroad gives students not only the opportunity to experience very different cultural environments but also to diversify their learning experience and, in some cases, to learn a new modern language.

“Studying abroad opened my eyes to a different way of life, immersed me in diverse cultures and I gained skills not possible in the UK. It expanded my perspective on the world and much more. Studying abroad enhances your degree and employment possibilities. It’s something that I would highly recommend to everyone.�

Amy Parker, BA Religious Studies and Exchange student at University of North Carolina, Greensboro, USA, Spring Semester, 2014.

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Teaching Excellence and Learning Enhancement Study of religion at UWTSD lies at the cutting edge of teaching and learning in the subject.

We provide students with critical and analytical insights into a range of religious beliefs, practices and worldviews in a manner that is free, fair, accurate, inclusive and open to correction. We emphasise the values of empathy, respect, openmindedness and sensitivity when studying the beliefs and values of religious groups and traditions.

At the same time we encourage analysis, critique and self-reflection.

All our modules are taught by specialists in their respective fields and teaching reflects the research expertise of the staff. This means that our students learn directly from experts and have an opportunity to explore the latest trends and debates which pertain to the field.

You will, then, be taught by lecturers who are leading debate in their particular areas of study.

We ensure that our modules touch upon many of the ‘hot topics’ that are at the heart of contemporary political and religious debate and controversy today. We emphasise the importance of understanding the history behind modern-day developments, exploring their textual, historical and socio-political backgrounds in order to be able to situate contemporary developments in appropriate context. But we also ensure that our programmes consider the ‘burning topics’ which come most obviously to the fore in the contemporary world. We seek to enable students to think about these issues and debates in a wellinformed and reasoned manner,

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and take positions on these topics in ways that reflect their critical and analytic engagement with scholarship on religion.

Most of our modules are taught through a combination of lectures and seminars. Students are actively encouraged to contribute to discussions and debates in the classroom, and to reflect on their own viewpoints even while considering those of others. All students have the opportunity to engage with tutors on a one-to-one basis. We aim not only to provide students with valuable knowledge of their chosen subject but also to develop skills in presentation, analysis, critique and research, all of which prove invaluable not just at university but also beyond, in the world of employment. We take our students on fieldtrips locally and abroad, in order to expose them to multiple religious traditions and contexts.

Our teaching combines traditional methods of delivery with the most up-to-date electronic resources. We use a Virtual Learning Environment for all modules in addition to face-to-face teaching, and draw upon electronic subject-resources made available through the library.

We encourage students to use electronic resources judiciously and emphasise the need to use these along with, rather than instead of, the more traditional resources available for learning.

Admissions the skills necessary to make them competitive players in the world of work. The coursework assessment tasks cover a wide range, and include such things as reviews of articles, books and websites, short and long essays, oral presentations, and the preparation of reports, logs and portfolios. In their final year students are able to dedicate a significant portion of their time to developing a research project in an area of their choice. Under supervisory guidance, they are encouraged to explore in depth a topic of particular interest to them, and write up their findings in the form of a research dissertation.

“I was nervous about studying a degree at University, but what I have found at Trinity Saint David is that all lecturers and members of staff are there for you. There’s no need to work in isolation, if there’s a problem you can speak to them and they will give you the advice and support that you need. They’re all academic scholars and their knowledge is inspiring. They are absolutely brilliant!”

Each year we welcome new students to the Lampeter and Carmarthen campuses. We share the University’s commitment to equal opportunities for all, and we welcome applications from all educational backgrounds, from those following traditional routes into Higher Education and those who are not. We particularly welcome applications from mature students, overseas students, students with disabilities and care-leavers. We can also consider deferred entry. Prior qualification in a subject related to Theology and Religious Studies is not required.

Programme Directors and arranges visits, and Open Days. Applications are considered based on merit and each candidate is assessed individually. Anyone considering applying is welcome to visit UWTSD at a formal Open Day, a Visit Day (Lampeter campus) or, in consultation with the Admissions Officer, on another day which is mutually convenient. In visiting, you will learn more about the University, the School and the Programme, you will meet members of staff and current students, and you will get a feel of what it is like to study at UWTSD.

The School has a dedicated Admissions and Recruitment officer who deals with all UCAS applications, liaises with the various

Sarah Armstrong, BA Astudiaethau Crefyddol (Religious Studies)

Modules are assessed in a variety of ways, based on coursework as well as examinations, all of which are designed to equip students with

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Supporting our Students All students are allocated to a personal tutor, who is a member of academic staff, to give them advice and support in academic matters.

Our dedicated Welfare Officer is also on hand to provide help and advice with arrangements for extra support, and to assist students with disabilities and learning difficulties.

We work closely with the University’s Student Services. The Student Services team offers advice on all issues from academic skills to finance. The University offers a wide range of scholarships and bursaries to assist students financially with issues ranging from childcare to study-related travel.

80% of our students said that assessment arrangements and marking have been fair.

Costs of living The cost of living in West and South Wales is considerably less than in other parts of the UK. Our students are able to study without incurring as much debt, or needing as much support from family or through working part-time, as students in other parts of the UK. Our University is committed not only to supporting all students academically and personally, but also assisting them financially. All students have the option of living in halls for the duration of their studies, though many choose to rent accommodation in town.

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Studying on the Lampeter Campus

The following programmes are available on the Lampeter campus:

Advantages to consider:

BA Religious Studies

• Picturesque Campus

BA Religious Studies and Anthropology

• Safe, rural setting

BA Religious Studies and Chinese Studies BA Religious Studies and Classical Studies

• Accommodation, lectures, shopping and student activities all within walking distance •

BA Religious Studies and Philosophy BA Religious Studies and Heritage Studies BA Theology and Classical Studies

A learning experience which is personalised with a well- resourced library and fully- engaged student services

• Vibrant student life geared to meeting student needs and interests

BA Theology and Religious Studies

BA Theology and History BA Theology and Philosophy BA Theology and Heritage Studies

The Lampeter campus is situated in the idyllic surroundings of rural west Wales. Life in Lampeter combines a quiet environment for study with a vibrant student life revolving around the Students’ Union. There is a wide range of student societies on campus, with sports facilities and many cultural events. The town is beautifully kept with a variety of local businesses, shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants to meet all the needs of the student of community.

BA Religious Studies with Applied Psychology BA Religious Studies with Education Studies BA Religious Studies with Heritage Management BA Religion, Philosophy and Ethics BA Theology, Philosophy and Ethics BA Philosophy, Religion and Applied Psychology BA Religion, Ethics and Applied Psychology BA Religion, Theology and Ethics BA Religion, Theology and Philosophy

Studying at Lampeter is campusbased, all the facilities and resources for study are within easy reach, and students take responsibility for their extra-curricular activities often setting up societies to cater for their own interests. The result is a unique experience which enables academic achievement and personal growth, equipping students with numerous skills which will serve them well in their life after University as they seek to make their way in the world of work.

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Studying on the Carmarthen Campus

The following programmes are

Advantages to consider:

BA Religious Studies

• Easy access to the M4 corridor and the South Wales to London main railway line • The shopping and entertainment facilities associated with a vibrant market town

available on the Carmarthen campus:

BA Islamic Studies BA Religious Studies and Islamic Studies BA Astudiaethau Crefyddol (Welsh medium programme in Religious Studies)

• All the facilities and resources necessary to support study • A safe environment for study and for personal development • A fully-engaged and proactive Students’ Union Carmarthen is the reputed birthplace of Merlin, the magician in Arthurian legend. The Carmarthen campus is located on the edge of town but within walking distance of a recently revitalised shopping centre, a multiplex cinema, a bowling alley and a variety of pubs, cafés and restaurants. Carmarthen is well served by the rail network and by public transport in general and is within easy reach of the cities of Swansea and Cardiff.

All the facilities and resources necessary for study can be found on the campus, where accommodation is also available. Many students choose to travel to the campus on a daily basis, while others opt to rent accommodation in the town. The Students’ Union organises a variety of events and societies to cater for all interests. The result is that students are able to achieve their best results in their studies while there are countless opportunities available to help develop and nurture transferrable skills which will help to make them competitive in the world of work.

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Explore our Degrees Religions can be studied in a number of ways. Religious texts, teachings and rituals can be considered and analysed, while the use of various analytical tools can also help us to understand the wide variety of belief and practice which we can see around us. These might include empirical techniques or sociological, anthropological and psychological theories, or philosophical methods. At UWTSD you can study all of these, but the way they are combined will depend on your interests and on the programme you choose to study.

We have a series of Joint Honours programmes available on the Lampeter campus with either Religious Studies or Theology where the study of religion can be combined with: • Philosophy, Anthropology, History, Chinese Studies, Classical Studies, Heritage Studies.

You could also undertake a programme on a major/minor basis, where the Religious Studies or Theology elements constitutes two-thirds of your study. These are available on the Lampeter campus • The Religious Studies programme with: is for students who wish to gain • Applied Psychology, Education an insight into the world’s major religions and who wish to acquire Studies, Heritage Management the tools for the analytical study Our Lampeter campus also offers of religion. The programme is the following Combined Honours available on both the Lampeter programmes: campus and the Carmarthen campus.

• Religion, Philosophy and Ethics • Theology, Philosophy and Ethics • The Theology and Religious • Philosophy, Religion and Applied Studies programme is for students who wish to concentrate Psychology • Religion, Ethics and Applied as much as possible on the Psychology analytical study of Christianity, • Religion, Theology and Ethics its texts and teachings. This can be studied alongside aspects • Religion, Theology and Philosophy of other religious traditions and analytical theory.

More details about these The programme is available on programmes can be found on the the Lampeter campus. next few pages.

• The Islamic Studies programme is for students who wish to specialise in the study ‘I owe a lot to my lecturers of Islam, its history, teaching at Trinity Saint David, and and traditions. You will also cannot thank them enough learn Arabic. The programme for their support’. is available on the Carmarthen campus. A Joint Siobhan Farrell, BA Religious Studies Honours programme with Religious Studies is also available on the Carmarthen campus.

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BA Religious Studies

MRelSt Integrated Masters in Religious Studies

UCAS Code: RV60

UCAS Code: 9F4R

The Religious Studies programme provides students with a grounding in the beliefs and practices of a wide range of world faiths. The programme will help students to understand the role of religion in the contemporary world and give them the opportunity to study the origins and development of religious traditions, including Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism. Modules are designed to stimulate curiosity about, and fascination for, the variety of religious cultures across the globe and to open up a greater awareness of the considerable plurality within religious traditions and in the world at large.

Students will have the opportunity to visit places of worship and other sites of significance for the study of religion, as well as the chance to engage, at first-hand, with multiple cultures and religions.

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focuses primarily on religion in the contemporary world, with acknowledgement of the significance of religion in shaping history.

The programme looks at specific religions, it looks at the methods and approaches used to study religion and it highlights various themes in which religion has an influence or a role.

Students are introduced to key categories of religion. World faiths are explored in the form of Abrahamic religions and Asian traditions.

Indigenous religions are examined, with specific focus on South America, and the new religious movements and alternative spiritualities that became significant in the West from the midtwentieth century onwards are also studied. Other modules explore the theories surrounding the study of religion, definitions of religion and the evaluation of religious belief and belonging.

Religion has been significant in a wide variety of areas, and some of our modules are built around these themes. We have modules that consider, for example, the relationship between religion and the media, the representation of religion in film, religion and violence, and the religious in art.

We also offer modules that focus on teaching religion.

You might also consider our four year Masters of Religious Studies (MRelSt) which enables you to build on your interest and knowledge of Religious Studies at masters level by working on advanced topics, underpinned by further study in critical and theoretical approaches. This programme is funded in the same way as undergraduate degrees and culminates in an extended individual project developed under the guidance of active researchers in a field of your interest.

Some modules you

will be able to study include: What is Religion?

New Religious Movements Islam in the West Jews and Christians in Conflict and Dialogue Indian Religious Traditions in the West Satan and his World of Darkness

“I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Trinity Saint David. It was a close-knit community, and lecturers and staff were friendly.

The modules were ideal for me as I love learning about different cultures and religions and how they affect us on a daily basis.

I had the opportunity to learn about and deepen my knowledge of my own faith, and it has motivated me to pursue further study”.

The programme is available on the Lampeter campus and on the Carmarthen campus.

The programme is also available in Welsh on the Carmarthen campus as BA Astudiaethau Crefyddol (UCAS Code LR51)

Ruhena Awal, BA Religious Studies

Religion and Media

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BA Theology and Religious Studies

MTheol Integrated Masters in Theology

UCAS Code: TV66

UCAS Code: 4Y5K

In the study of Theology, students will be able to examine the major questions of life: Where do we come from? Why are we here? Where are we going? Why do bad things happen? These are considered from the perspective of the JudeoChristian traditions. This component enables students to explore the sacred writings of Judaism and Christianity, as well as the teachings, practices and social impact of Christianity. Students will have the opportunity to study these religious traditions from historical and contemporary perspectives, building on staff specialism in biblical studies, church history, systematic theology, and religion in the modern world.

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The Religious Studies component of this degree scheme provides students with a grounding in the beliefs and practices of a wide range of world faiths. The programme will help students to understand the role of religion in the contemporary world and give them the opportunity to study the origins and development of religious traditions, including Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism. Modules are designed to stimulate curiosity about, and fascination for, the variety of religious cultures across the globe and to open up a greater awareness of the considerable plurality within religious traditions and within societies at large. Students will have the opportunity to visit

places of worship and other sites of significance for the study of religion, as well as the chance to engage, at first-hand, with multiple cultures and religions.

There is also the option to undertake a four-year degree programme titled Master of Theology (MTheol). The additional year further develops your knowledge of Theology, allowing you to explore your interests at masters level. This programme is funded in the same way as undergraduate degrees.

“The staff’s detailed knowledge and understanding of the students on the various programmes is impressive; the module choices available to students are interesting, relevant and challenging; the quality of feedback is very high; staff expertise is of very high standard”.

External Examiner’s Report 2014

Jews and Christians in Conflict and Dialogue

“The study of religions at UWTSD is notable for its currency of content and leading edge theoretical approaches to the field. The undergraduate programme is well designed with a core of modules that examine how religious practitioners undertake their lives, through practices and experience. The School of TRSIS is notable for its teaching strengths which are student focused and research informed”.

Religion and Media

External Examiner’s Report 2014

Some modules you will be able to study include: Hebrew Bible Story and History: the Narrative of Luke Acts Christian Doctrine Word, Cross and Liberation: Aspects of Twentieth-Century Theology Islam in the West

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BA Islamic Studies

BA Religious Studies and Islamic Studies

UCAS Code: K5NW

UCAS Code: TV66

Islamic Studies (Single Honours) offers a distinctive programme consisting of a combination of traditional and contemporary approaches, including Arabic language acquisition and the study of Islamic texts. A variety of modules are available which explore various aspects of Islamic belief and practice in the contemporary world, and students will also have the opportunity to acquire a good working knowledge of Arabic.

The programme provides students with the opportunity to explore and develop an understanding of significant issues dominating contemporary discussions about Islam, including gender, radicalisation,

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religious authority and the place of Muslim communities in contemporary ‘western’ societies.

These modules are designed to introduce students to issues which promote tolerance and an understanding of particular issues and concerns which are often perceived to be associated with Islam, such as extremism, arranged marriages, multiculturalism, the Arab Spring and other such topics.

It prepares students for a variety of careers, including social work, teaching, chaplaincy, and youth work.

Some modules you will be able to study include: Arabic (at introductory and intermediate levels) Introduction to Islam Islam in the West Life of Muhammad Approaching the Qu’ran and Hadith

Religious Studies and Islamic Studies (Joint Honours) offers the opportunity for students to study many aspects of Islam in the context of a wider understanding of the world’s great religious traditions. Like other academic areas, this programme applies analytical and critical approaches to its subject area. This programme will enable you to explore Islam as a major faith in the contemporary world, dealing with issues surrounding gender, conflict, pluralism, secularism and post-modernism.

As well as being a fascinating subject in its own right, Islamic Studies and Religious Studies has

relevance for those wishing to pursue careers in fields such as education, social services, media, diplomacy, or business. Joint Honours students would not normally do the Arabic modules.

Some modules you will be able to study include: Introduction to Islam Islam in the West Life of Muhammad Jews and Christians in Conflict and Dialogue Religion and Media Satan and his World of Darkness These programmes are available on the Carmarthen campus.

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Joint Honours Programmes

Theology or Religious Studies and...

Joint Honours studies in Theology and another subject enable students to concentrate on the Christian tradition, its texts and teachings alongside the study of another subject.

Joint Honours studies in Religious Studies and another subject enable the study of a variety of religious traditions, a number of theoretical approaches to the study of religion, and the study of another subject.

Joint Honours… and Philosophy

The following Joint Honours programmes are available on the Lampeter campus: Religious Studies and Anthropology UCAS Code LV66

Religious Studies and Chinese Studies Theology and Philosophy UCAS Code TV16 UCAS Code VVP5 Religious Studies and Classical Studies Theology and Heritage Studies UCAS Code QVV6 UCAS Code 3X29 Religious Studies and Philosophy UCAS Code VV6M Religious Studies and Heritage Studies UCAS Code 92CM Theology and Classical Studies UCAS Code GV86

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Theology and History UCAS Code VV16

Further information is available in the following pages.

A joint honours degree in Theology or Religious Studies and Philosophy combines two of the great disciplines that address the very meaning of life (and death), asking some of the fundamental questions about who we are, what we are and where are we going (or where do we think we are going, and why). Theology or Religious Studies and Philosophy are cognate subjects that deal with ideas and their impact on human society.

They are concerned with questions central to human existence: the nature of truth, change, goodness and justice. Theology and Religious Studies provide an essential point of reference for many ideas and thinkers. Indeed many of the ‘greatest’ thinkers have themselves speculated on the truth claims of religion.

Philosophy examines the big questions - Who are we? What is our place in the world? How should we live? What is reality? It approaches such questions through argument, but also through vision and imagination. Philosophy concerns every aspect of our lives, practical as well as theoretical.

Through its grounding in real social relations and human activities, it seeks to understand and address the whole spectrum of social, ethical, environmental and political issues of today. Through such contemplation, we are able not only to understand life, but to shape it.

Along with Theology or Religious Studies modules, you will be able to study modules such as: The Self Ethics and Global Justice Early Modern Philosophy Philosophy of Religion Environmental Philosophy Phenomenology and Existentialism

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Joint Honours… and Anthropology

We cannot truly understand our society, history, and the world around us without understanding the multiple ways in which religious traditions, both historically and in the present, shape the ways in which we think and act. The Joint Honours programme with Anthropology explores a range of religious traditions from multiple socio-cultural and historical contexts. It takes students beyond superficial media coverage of religion-related events into deeper issues of history, identity, and the implications of religious commitment for matters of world concern. Students are provided with opportunities to visit places of religious significance, and they are encouraged to acquire practical, first-hand engagement with a range of cultures and religions.

To combine Religious Studies with Anthropology is to embark on an exploration of the fundamentals

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of what it means to be human.

Anthropology takes the whole world as its point of interest and brings students face-to-face with the eye-opening variety of human behaviours both in the present and the past. Anthropologists examine the daily and mundane, the rare and ‘exotic’, and the local alongside the global to help address the pressing social issues that our world faces nowadays. Studying a Joint Honours programme in Religious Studies and Anthropology forces you to question ideas and assumptions about right and wrong, good and bad, by giving ethically sophisticated consideration to human diversity and the sustainability of human practices.

Joint Honours… and History

Along with Theology or Religious Studies modules, you will be able to study modules such as: Anthropology in Context People’s Worlds: Lives and Livelihoods Introduction to Fieldwork Material Worlds: Approaches to Economic Relations Body, Culture and Society Political and Economic Anthropology Kinship, Gender and Sexuality

The combination of Theology with History provides a rich learning experience as these areas of study are closely related to each other.

Theology offers the opportunity to consider how the major questions of life – Where do we come from?

Why are we here? Where are we going? Why do bad things happen? – have been answered from a variety of perspectives, both historical and contemporary, from within the Judeo-Christian tradition.

The study of History offers many opportunities for students to consider how societies alter and change over time. In addition, History modules enable students to focus on moments of seminal change. While rooted in the study of documentary source materials, field trips, visits to archives and record offices, students will also be introduced to new areas of study by investigating how the past

is captured and communicated through visits to archives or museums or analyses of film, TV and other media. This all provides for a fully rounded programme of study equipping students with the necessary skills for life after University.

Along with Theology or Religious Studies modules, you will be able to study modules such as: Introduction to History: French Revolution to the Holocaust

Revolution, Nationalism and Democracy: Europe 1789-1991 Medieval Europe: from Charlemagne to the Hundred Years War, 800-1453 Modern America from Washington to Obama: 1776 to 2009 Modern Britain 1776-1997: The Rise and Fall of a Great Power The Cistercians and their World Britain and the Great War A History and Theory of Genocide

The Middle Ages: From Alfred the Great to the Reformation Knights and Castles War in History

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Joint Honours… and Chinese Studies

The Religious Studies elements of this course are designed to help students understand religions in their cultural, sociological, historical and theological contexts. You will be exposed to the dynamic relationship between religion and society and will examine the roles that religions play in shaping the pressing issues of our era. By combining Religious Studies with Chinese Studies, you have the opportunity also to familiarise yourself with the history and culture of one of the world’s greatest civilisations. This programme combines in-depth exploration of religion and society with Chinese history and culture in its various manifestations across the entire

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Joint Honours… and Chinese Civilisation

span of China’s pre-modern and Along with Theology modern history. As part of this or Religious Studies degree scheme, you will have the modules, you will be opportunity to visit China and able to study modules experience Chinese culture firsthand. Additionally all students have such as: the opportunity to apply for shortterm language courses in China and Basic, Advanced and Classical for scholarships administered by the Chinese Centre for Chinese Studies and the Introduction to Contemporary Confucius Institute.

China Chinese Religion and Philosophy From Empire to Nation: The Modern History of China Confucian Ethics Confucianism and Taoism

China is one of the world’s great civilisations with a rich cultural heritage providing the backdrop to a dynamic contemporary society.

The Lampeter programme in Chinese Civilisation aims broadly to familiarise students with Chinese history and culture in all its diversity through much of China’s pre-modern and modern history.

Students have the opportunity to visit China and have first-hand experience of Chinese culture.

The Religious Studies part of the programme will offer students the opportunity to explore religion as it relates to all aspects of human life. The programme covers an extensive array of contemporary, thematic and historical topics and

a wide range of religious traditions, enabling students to understand religious traditions in their particular socio-cultural contexts.

Along with Theology or Religious Studies modules, you will be able to study modules such as: History and Civilisation of Traditional China Chinese Cinema: Aesthetics and Politics Understanding Contemporary China From Empire to Nation: Modern History of China

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Joint Honours… and Classical Studies The Classical Studies part of the programme offers students the opportunity to explore their interest in the cultures, literatures and languages of the ancient world. A Joint Honours degree in Classical Studies gives you the opportunity to study a wide range of subjects including mythology, religion, and genres of ancient literature, covering epics, tragedies, comedies and satires. Modules exploring the influence of the ancient world on modern popular culture, such as film and literature, are also available.

Study of an ancient language is an option but not compulsory. In the first year, modules can be taken on a wide range of periods and themes; in the second and third years, students can study specialised modules on aspects of GrecoRoman literature and culture.

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different aspects of human life.

Religion has impacted on politics, society and the environment, and played a major role in shaping our world as we know it today. The programme enables engagement with a range of religious traditions in both historical and contemporary contexts. It explores such diverse themes as religion and the media, ritual, Eastern traditions in the West, violence in religion, and the politics of sex and gender in the study of religion. Students have opportunities to visit sites of religious significance, and acquire practical, first-hand engagement with multiple traditions.

Joint Honours… and Heritage Studies Along with Theology or Religious Studies modules, you will be able to study modules such as: Reading Antiquity: A Survey of Ancient Literature From Village to Empire: An Introduction to the History of Rome Life and Culture in Classical Antiquity The Muses’ Playground: Epic in Antiquity Augustan Lovers Magic in Antiquity Religions in Antiquity The Legends of Alexander the Great Staging Antiquity: Drama in the Ancient World

This programme enables students to combine their exploration of matters of faith, spirituality, and religious practice, with various aspects of the heritage sector, such as heritage interpretation and display, museums, archives, heritage management and tourism.

The Theology or Religious Studies element in this course is designed to help students understand religions in historical context, as well as to examine the key role that religion plays in our world today. The course thus covers a range of historical and contemporary themes and topics, and enables engagement with a wide range of religious traditions. Students have opportunities to visit sites of religious significance, and acquire practical, first-hand engagement with multiple traditions.

Roderic Bowen Library and Archives in their final year. By the end of the programme students will be equipped with the appropriate skills and understanding necessary for a range of career paths in the heritage sector and culture industries.

Along with Theology or Religious Studies modules, you will be able to study modules such as: Heritage Marketing Heritage Data Management Museums Roderic Bowen Library and Archives

Students on this programme are required to complete compulsory work placement in their second year and studies in Lampeter’s www.uwtsd.ac.uk | 31

Major/Minor Programmes Major/Minor combinations allow students to follow 80 credits at each level of study in their ‘major’ subject area and 40 credits at each level of study in their ‘minor’ subject area. In other words, two-thirds of study will be in one subject and one-third of study will be in the other. We offer three innovative major/minor combinations.

These programmes are available on the Lampeter campus.

BA Religious Studies with two modules in Psychology. At level 6 students will complete a Applied Psychology

BA Religious Studies with Education Studies

UCAS Code 7C29

UCAS Code VL64

This programme presents an exciting combination that explores the full range of human behaviour(s), attitudes and relationships, their internal dynamics within the mind and how those emotions impact upon the wider cultures and communities around them and of which they are a part.

The programme looks to explore and analyse a broad sweep of different human activities and the mechanics of those activities (relating, for example, to faith, ritual, socialisation, spirituality, violence, love, etc.) for individuals as well as for different societies and cultures across the world. In total this makes for an innovative blend of cognate subjects that taken together examine and unlock the human condition in a variety of ways, forms and contexts.

The programmes offered here are composed of an 80 credit major in Religious Studies, combined with a 40 credit minor formed of

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40-credit dissertation on a subject that combines theory and method in both Psychology and Religious Studies.

Alongside modules in Religious Studies, you will be able to study modules such as: Comparative and Evolutionary Psychology Media and Consumer Psychology Individual Differences, Personality and Intelligence Criminology and Forensic Psychology Psychopathology

The Religious Studies (major) component of this degree scheme provides students with a grounding in the beliefs and practices of a wide range of world faiths. The course will help students understand the role of religion in the contemporary world and give them the opportunity to study the origins and development of religious traditions, including Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism. Modules are designed to stimulate curiosity about, and fascination for, the variety of religious cultures across the globe and to open up a greater awareness of the considerable plurality within religious traditions and within societies at large. Students will have the opportunity to visit places of worship and other sites of significance for the study of religion, as well as the chance to engage, at first-hand, with multiple cultures and religions.

The Education Studies (minor) component of this degree comprises two modules of study per year over the three years of the degree (when studied fulltime). Modules will cover a range of themes including, for example, the historical development of education, learning cultures and approaches to learning, the philosophy of learning and education, and the legal frameworks within which education operates today. After exploring key debates on education in the first year, students will have the opportunity for a work placement in the second year, giving them valuable insights into what a career in education entails. The third year affords the opportunity to complete a research project combining theoretical and methodological elements of Education Studies with themes central to Religious Studies.

Throughout the programme there is clear emphasis on enhancing employability through the development of a range of transferable skills for the workplace.

Alongside modules in Religious Studies, you will be able to study modules such as: Learning, Knowledge and Education Historical and Contemporary Issues in Education Culture, Identity and Education Learning in an Inclusive Environment Humanities in Education

BA Religious Studies with Heritage Management UCAS Code: 72XS This programme enables students to major in Religious Studies and combine this with a small selection of modules in Heritage Management. The minor part of the programme introduces students to ideas and issues surrounding the field of Heritage Management and amounts to 40 credits or two

modules per year. This part of the programme is specifically designed to enhance a student’s knowledge of Heritage in its broadest sense and to provide an appropriate set of skills and understandings applicable to a broad range of employments in the Heritage sector or cultural industries more generally.

Running through all the modules is clear emphasis on enhancing the employability potential of our students, notably through a compulsory work placement, and for those that wish, the opportunity to do a practice based, work related Dissertation. Students also acquire an understanding of heritage marketing and various data management and analysis methods.

Alongside modules in Religious Studies, you will be able to study modules such as: Heritage Management Museums, Heritage and Representation Roderic Bowen Library and Archives

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Combined Honours Programmes These newly designed programmes enable students to focus on three disciplines for their undergraduate course. Students can combine Religion or Theology with two of the following subjects: Philosophy, Ethics, Applied Psychology.

Alternatively, students may wish to combine Theology and Religion with Ethics or Philosophy.

These programmes are available on the Lampeter campus.

BA Religion, Philosophy and Ethics UCAS Code D2N4 This combination of subjects enables students to consider some of the central questions and challenges that face humanity: Who are we? What is our place in the world? How should we live? What is reality? The course explores the role

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of religion, the nature of existence and knowledge, and it examines the ethical dilemmas encountered by a wide range of communities, societies and cultures.

BA Theology, Philosophy and Ethics UCAS Code C32B This course is ideal for students who want to ask the big questions about the nature of human existence and about the role of faith in Christian tradition. By examining the ethical questions that modern life poses, the course explores how we live our lives and what gives meaning to our lives and our actions. The subjects are studied through argument and debate as well as the study of key works and sacred texts.

BA Philosophy, Religion and Applied Psychology UCAS Code 2F56 This Combined Honours course examines the nature and meaning of humanity in its broadest sense, its philosophical and spiritual leanings, and also its faith and sense of belonging. The study of Applied Psychology enables students to explore the full range of human behaviour and attitudes in relation to religion and human existence.

BA Religion, Ethics and Applied Psychology UCAS Code BSA1 This combination of subjects will appeal to students to who to combine the study of religion and human behaviour with the

ethical dilemmas facing society today. Students explore a variety of approaches to the nature of religion, ethical choices and decisions, as well as the full range of human behaviour, attitudes and relationships.

BA Religion, Theology and Ethics UCAS Code JKS2 This course explores a wide range of religious traditions and movements, the nature of faith and its role in society, and also the nature of and possible solutions to the ethical dilemmas that are faced by contemporary society. The course is ideal for students who are interested in how religious beliefs and practices shape individuals, communities and cultures, as well as the ethical questions posed by modern life.

BA Religion, Theology and Philosophy UCAS Code K219 This Combined Honours programme offers students a thorough grounding in the beliefs and practices of a wide range of world faith and religious traditions, with the Theology component enabling student to give particular attention to Christianity. The programme explores the nature of faith and its role in society; it also addresses some of the major questions about human existence and knowledge.

“Staff on this programme are committed to teaching and developing students”.

External Examiner’s Report 2014

‘I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Trinity Saint David. It was a close-knit community, and lecturers and staff were friendly.

The modules were ideal for me as I love learning about different cultures and religions and how they affect us on a daily basis.

I had the opportunity to learn about and deepen my knowledge of my own faith, and it has motivated me to pursue further study’.

Ruhena Awal, BA Religious Studies

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Further information For further information, please contact: Joint Head of School: Catrin Williams c.h.williams@uwtsd.ac.uk

The information contained in this booklet is correct at the time of publication, but is subject to change as part of the University’s policy of continuous improvement and development.