Philosophy and Theology

What is it to be human? What do people believe about the world and how they fit within it? This degree will transform how you think and feel about fundamental issues of human existence. By studying philosophy and religion together you’ll get to understand:

• the overlaps and differences

• how they support and disagree with each other

• their personal, historical, and cultural importance

From the deeply personal to society-wide concerns, you’ll cover a wide range of issues providing you with a greater understanding of different ways of living. Throughout this course you’ll develop a wide range of transferable skills, and will also have the opportunity to undertake bespoke internships and placements to help you set yourself up for success after graduation.

Theology
Study biblical writings together with key thinkers, ideas, events and movements that shaped the course of Western Christian thought
Explore how religion intersects with social justice, technology, and the natural world, as well as philosophy, sociology and history

Philosophy
Study topics, figures, and themes from across the Western, Indian, Chinese and Africana traditions
Explore crime and justice, race and gender, politics and religion, mental health, the environment and society
Apply philosophical thinking to everyday issues

Engaged Arts
All students within the Faculty of Arts can select ‘Engaged Arts’ modules where you’ll approach real world challenges across contemporary themes such as sustainability or equity and justice. These modules have been newly designed to help you gain the skills and analytical abilities that employers are looking for.

Why choose this course?

• Global curriculum - particular strengths across Christian, Muslim, , Buddhist and atheist thinking, and Western, Chinese, Indian and Africana philosophies

• Research driven learning – engage with cutting-edge research and teachings from experts in the fields of philosophy

• Ask the big questions – explore the many ways in thinking about what it is to be human

• Career-ready skills - develop your presentation, organisation, teamwork and leadership skills for a wide range of professions

• Confidence of thinking - develop the skills and confidence to argue your views

• Work experience - Work with our dedicated Faculty of Arts Placements Team to assist with your employability skills development via a range of placements, internships and volunteering opportunities

• Explore real-world challenges across interdisciplinary themes with our ‘Engaged Arts’ optional modules

Some key statistics
Top 100 in the world for philosophy (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024)
Ranked 14th in the UK for Theology and Religious Studies (The Guardian University Guide 2025)

You can also access this course through a Foundation Year. This may be suitable if you have faced educational barriers and do not expect to meet the entry requirements for direct entry to a degree course. Please see the UCAS page for the relevant Foundation Year course for further information.