What Makes This Course So Special?
Students are able to benefit from our extensive network of established partnerships with faith groups. The course also provides progression from the Professional Development in Religious Education which is offered in association with the Church in Wales and the Roman Catholic Church.
Find out more about the subject of Religious Studies at Newport.
Course Intro
This course is designed to develop professional knowledge in the area of Religious Education. There are opportunities to study a variety of religious traditions - and you are able to benefit from our extensive network of established partnerships with faith groups. This aspect might be of particular interest to those working in the field of education, health or social services wishing to explore issues of diversity and inclusion.
The course also provides progression from the Professional Development in Religious Education course that we offer here at Newport. Participants in all areas of the course include teachers and other education professionals.
The MA Religious Education is a specialist award made up of three compulsory modules, one module selected from any other programme, plus a dissertation.
What you study
In common with all of the MA Education programmes, you must take the core module Research Methodology. Three other modules are then selected - the two specialist modules below, and you may then choose one relevant option module from within the MA Education programme.
Understanding Religion and Culture
Provides an overview of religion as found in South Wales and the UK more broadly, supported by visits to faith communities. You also choose a particular faith to study in detail.
Collaborative / Individual Project
Building on knowledge, experience and contacts from the Understanding Religion and Culture module, and with tutor support, you develop your own project focused on a local faith community.
Awards are available at Postgraduate Certificate level (after completion of two taught modules) and Postgraduate Diploma level (after completion of four taught modules).
To complete the full MA you will present a 17,000 word research dissertation and a 3,000 word research dissemination plan.
A programme specification for this course is available.
Where Next?
You could go on to undertake a Masters degree which is required for professional advancement in numerous occupations, and is widely seen as evidence of a successful commitment to high level professional development. An MA award demonstrates that you have developed advanced level skills in analysis, evaluation and research.
If you are interested in the possibility of a higher degree by research, your tutors will be pleased to discuss the opportunities for doing so here at Newport.
Interview Required
Yes. After you have made your application an informal interview will be required.
Assessment
Understanding Religion and Culture is assessed by written assignments totaling 3,500 words, and a presentation. The remaining modules are normally assessed by a written assignment of 5,000 words.
Student Soundbite
“I will always be grateful for the encouragement given by my tutors on this MA. The modules and extra curricular activities were excellent.”