Philosophy and Theology

Philosophy and theology frequently overlap. Philosophers have long questioned the nature of existence and agency, whereas theologians have engaged with philosophical traditions in developing their understanding of individual and collective belief.

This programme offers you an opportunity to explore these pivotal intersections. You will study the metaphysical, ethical and theological traditions that have shaped contemporary thinking, engaging with fundamental questions about meaning and knowledge, as well as conceptions of God, the world and the relationship between them.

Why study this programme?

• This wide-ranging programme will allow you to address questions about such diverse areas as morality, rationality, language, ethics, doctrine, time, self, agency, and will. You will develop the ability to engage with the views of others, formulate research questions, and articulate arguments which represent different positions and attitudes fairly.

• This programme will allow you to acquire advanced knowledge and understanding in chosen areas of philosophical and theological traditions. It offers a range of approaches to these study areas, critical engagement with, and evaluation of, texts, issues, and arguments.

• Edinburgh has a distinguished place in the history of philosophy and theology, having been home to Adam Smith, and Philosophy and Theology as subjects have been taught at the University since its foundation in 1583.

Philosophy and theology

Our philosophy programme covers the study of ancient and modern intellectual history, logic, metaphysics, ethics, aesthetics and other areas.

Theology at the University involves the study of Christian theology, the history of Christianity, biblical studies, Islamic studies, religious studies, and other areas.

As a student of theology, you will study different religious traditions, including:

• Christianity

• Islam

• Judaism

• Buddhism

• Hinduism

• indigenous religions

• new religious movements

The study of theology at the University involves using different methods and approaches to the subject, such as:

• systematic and practical theology

• classical languages and sacred texts

• ethics

• literature and the arts

• philosophy of religion

• anthropology and sociology

• law and politics

• race and gender

• science and religion

• history

Programme benefits

• You will join a vibrant, tight-knit divinity community of around 450 students and 40 staff, based in their own building – the beautiful and historic New College.

• Our friendly and approachable teaching staff consist of internationally respected scholars in a wide range of specialisms.

• Divinity has a fantastic onsite library which is one of the largest religion and theology libraries in the UK.

• The University has a rich history of philosophy teaching, having been taught at the University since its foundation in 1583.

• You will study over four years, including one abroad (if desired).

• You do not need qualifications in theology to take up the study of theology. Our students come from backgrounds in arts, humanities, social sciences and natural sciences.