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For general undergraduate

enquiries contact:

The Enquiry Centre


t: +44 (0)115 951 5559
e: undergraduate-enquiries@nottingham.ac.uk
w: www.nottingham.ac.uk/faqs

Theology and Religious Studies


Undergraduate study 2015
www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Contents

Welcome to the Department of


Theology and Religious Studies

2 Welcome
3 Why study theology and religious studies at Nottingham?
5 Degree courses
17 How will I study?
19 How will I be assessed?
21 Career and employment prospects
23 Student and graduate profiles
27 Staff research interests
29 Your student experience
34 Postgraduate opportunities
35 Study abroad
37 Applying for a place
40 Frequently asked questions
41 Visiting and contacting us

Religious questions have been central


to every age and culture. These include questions
about ultimate origins, meaning and purpose:
Why is there something rather than nothing?
Is there a God? What is life? Why was the Bible
written? How should we interpret the Quran?
Can we understand the world and humanity without
understanding religion?

Front cover image:


Theology students outside the Humanities Building, which is home to the Department of Theology and Religious Studies.

In the Department of Theology and Religious


Studies at The University of Nottingham, these
are the kinds of questions that we explore through
our teaching and research. We study a range of
ideas and traditions spanning 3,000 years, but we
are drawn together by our commitment to one
simple idea: questions about God, and all the
associated philosophical, historical, political and
cultural issues are crucial and utterly fascinating.
We hope our commitment to the study of theology
and religion will be inspiring and infectious. We
invite you to join our department in learning to think,
analyse, empathise and debate through one of our
exciting degree courses.
In this brochure we have tried to answer some of
the questions you might have on what and how we
teach, what we look for in an applicant and what
its like to be a student here. We have also included
some information on the career opportunities that
might be open to you when you have completed
your degree course.

Our department is highly rated for its teaching


and research. But the real test of a department
is always what the students think about it. When
evaluating their time at Nottingham, our final-year
students consistently comment on how friendly
the department is, how open the staff are to being
questioned and challenged, and how we support
students and help them to think for themselves
about the big issues.
If we have not answered all your questions, please
contact us using the details on page 41 or visit our
website at www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology
With very best wishes for success in your
applications and studies.
Dr Simon Oliver
Head of the Department of Theology and
Religious Studies
UoNTRS
@uon_trs

Students in the food court, Portland


Building, on University Park Campus.
1

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Why study theology and religious


studies at Nottingham?
The Department of Theology and Religious
Studies is in the top 10 UK departments
of its kind according to the latest Research
Assessment Exercise. Established over 60
years ago, we have research expertise
across a wide range of areas.

Academic excellence

We have an international reputation, attracting


staff and students from many European
countries and the Americas. The Times Good
University Guide 2014 ranked us 11th out of all
theology departments in the UK and in the latest
independent review of teaching quality carried
out by the Quality Assurance Agency, Nottingham
was awarded the highest possible judgement.
We offer the most traditional of subjects in the most
contemporary of environments. Our staff teach
at the frontiers of their specialist subjects which
means that students get a real sense of what is
going on in current theological research and the
importance of theology and religious studies for
issues in our contemporary world.
We provide our students with the opportunity
to acquire a broad range of skills ranging from
historical, literary and theological analysis of
religious scriptures to philosophical, sociological
and comparative engagement with religious
traditions. Our research-led teaching encompasses
a diverse range of topics including: philosophy
of religion and ethics; biblical studies; religious
history; systematic theology; theology and science;
theology and music; theology and literature; Islam;
Judaism; and religion and culture.

Our department leads the way in providing theology


and religious studies resources on the internet. We
have produced a range of video series featuring
our academic staff including Bibledex a series
of short videos about every book in the Bible, and
Why Study...? which introduces a range of topics
relating to the teaching and specialist research
carried out in the department:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology/videos
The department is home to two international
research centres: The Centre of Philosophy and
Theology and The Centre for the Bible, Ethics and
Theology.

Student support

With an academic staff of 16, the Department of


Theology and Religious Studies is large enough
to be able to offer an exciting range of modules,
but small enough for staff and students to get to
know each other. All students (single and joint
honours) have a personal tutor with whom you
can discuss academic and personal matters.
Our current students report the highest levels of
satisfaction with the academic support, teaching
and organisation of the course at Nottingham.
We have a genuinely collaborative atmosphere
including an active Learning Community Forum,
which meets regularly for student representatives
to comment on and contribute to the running of
the department. We also have a peer mentor
scheme, which enables second and third year
students to support first year students,
particularly in the process of becoming
accustomed to university study and life.

Facilities and resources

Library and computing services


The main library for humanities is the Hallward
Library, located at a central site on University Park
Campus. To find out about the range of facilities
and resources on offer go to
www.nottingham.ac.uk/library
Of specific relevance to humanities students is
the Manuscripts and Special Collections archive,
which holds an impressive collection of printed
manuscripts and archive collections. These provide
an opportunity to use rare primary sources in your
studies. Dedicated, expert staff are on hand to offer
guidance and support: www.nottingham.ac.uk/
manuscriptsandspecialcollections
The Digital Humanities Centre
The Digital Humanities Centre (DHC) is a
facility for research and learning, located in the
Humanities Building. It provides an innovative
workspace in which staff and students can
explore, create and work on digital media which
will make their research cutting edge:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/humanities/digital

Student societies

The student-run theology and religious studies


society TheoSoc is well-established and lively.
The society looks out for the welfare of students,
holds regular social events involving students
and staff, organises extracurricular activities
such as debates and talks, and runs a number of
departmental sports teams.

Employment prospects
and future study

A degree in theology and religious studies leads to


a wide range of careers. While our graduates are
naturally equipped to go on to work in a variety of
religious contexts, the majority of our students go
into professions such as teaching or law, or on to
managerial or administrative positions in industry or
the financial sector.
Recent graduates have found employment in the
civil service, journalism, marketing, publishing and
social services. Find out more about employment
prospects on page 21.

Student satisfaction

Were proud that the department scored 90%


for overall satisfaction in the National Student
Survey 2013.
It is a further measure of student satisfaction that
we have recently received a number of nominations
for the Lord Dearing teaching awards and the
Students Union University Staff Oscars (including:
best teacher; most inspirational teacher; best
dissertation supervisor; best coursework feedback;
best personal tutor; best member of support staff).

Prizes

We currently offer a number of prizes to


undergraduates, each with a monetary reward:
Thiselton Dissertation Prize for the best
dissertation
Ed Ball Prize for the best dissertation in biblical
studies
Professor William Frend Prize for the student
gaining the highest average mark in their final
exams
Bible Society Prize for the best essay in the area
of biblical studies.

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Degree courses

Theology and religious studies

UCAS code

Duration

A levels

IB

BA Biblical Studies and Theology

1V54

3 years

ABB

32

BA Religion, Culture and Ethics

13V6

3 years

ABB

32

BA Theology and Religious Studies

V610

3 years

ABB

32

BA English and Theology

QV36

3 years

ABB
(including
A in A level
English)

32

BA Philosophy and Theology

VV56

3 years

34
AAB
(C in GCSE
Maths)

Single honours

Joint honours

BA Religion, Philosophy and Ethics

86V4

3 years

34
AAB
(C in GCSE
Maths)

The department is small and friendly,


which means as a student you get to
know everyone and the academic staff
are able to offer excellent pastoral support.

Modular degrees

Dissertation

To graduate with a degree from The University


of Nottingham you must take 360 credits of
modules 120 in each year of study. Each module
is usually worth 10 or 20 credits the higher the
number of credits, the greater the amount of work
on the module. The first year is a qualifying year,
which means your degree classification will be
determined by the work completed in your
second and final years.

Joint honours degrees

Almost all undergraduate degree programmes


at the University are modular, which means you
undertake modules of study with assessment at
the end of each semester. Under the modular
system, you will normally be required to take
modules totalling 60 credits in each semester.

Single honours degrees

In your three years at Nottingham you will take


a combination of core and optional modules,
mainly from those offered by the Department of
Theology and Religious Studies, but also with a
choice of subsidiary modules from outside the
department, particularly in your first and second
years. For example, you may choose to take
modules in classics, economics, history, philosophy
or psychology. Alternatively, you might wish to
continue studying a language learned at school
or college, or begin an entirely new language. A
full list of subsidiary modules will be available at
registration each year.

During your third year you will write a dissertation


on a subject that particularly interests you.
Some students carry out further work on a topic
introduced in a module theyve studied previously,
while others write on a topic agreed after
discussion with tutors. The dissertation provides
experience of the self-motivation and discipline
required to carry out a relatively large project. If
there is something youve always wanted to write
about, it might end up being your dissertation topic!

A joint honours degree is split between your two


subjects, and the theology part of your degree
is normally made up of 60 credits each year
(although there is some flexibility in the distribution
of modules). Each year your course will consist of
core and optional modules in both degree subjects.
Please note that this brochure contains information
on theology and religious studies, and on our
departments contribution to your joint honours
course. If you are considering applying for a
joint honours course, you should also look for
information from the other school or department
involved on our online prospectus:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/ugstudy

BA Theology student

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Single honours
BA Biblical Studies and Theology

The Bible remains the most influential text in


western history and the study of biblical texts
can contribute significantly to understanding
a range of crucial contemporary issues. Our
degree in biblical studies and theology offers
you the opportunity to focus on the study of
biblical texts (Hebrew Bible/Old Testament and
New Testament) and the Christian tradition in a
supportive academic context.
This course allows you to explore a variety of
historical and contemporary approaches to the
Bible and its impact on individuals and faith
communities, as well as on wider philosophical,
social and political discussion. You will be
encouraged to develop your own understanding of
central theological questions: What is the Bible?
How was it formed? Why does it remain such
an influential book? What is meant by a literal
interpretation of the Bible? What does it mean to
refer to the Bible as the Word of God? What is
the relationship between the Bible and theology?
In what ways are the Bible and theology important
in the 21st century?

Year one
The core modules in year one will provide you
with a grounding in biblical studies and Christian
theology through study of the Hebrew Bible,
the New Testament, and the thought of key
theologians within their historical context. You
will also be introduced to the Jewish tradition
and develop essential skills through taking Great
Religious Texts 1 and 2, which are core modules
for all our first year students and taught in small
seminar groups. Optional modules will be
chosen from those on offer in theology and
religious studies and you may also choose to
take subsidiary modules in other departments.
The study of biblical languages is not
compulsory, but is encouraged.
Year two
In addition to one core module Great Religious
Debates you will be able to develop your
interests in those areas studied in year one.
You may also choose to begin a second biblical
language or take modules from a wider range
of optional modules on offer in theology and
religious studies.
Year three
In your final year you will take the core dissertation
module. Beyond this there is a wide range of
choices which means you can decide whether to
focus on particular areas within biblical studies
and theology, or continue with a broader range
of topics. Optional modules are chosen from
BA Theology and Religious Studies options on
page 10.

BA Religion, Culture and Ethics

Religious studies is an essential tool for making


sense of todays diverse and complex world, while
ethics helps us comprehend what constitutes
human flourishing. Our unique degree course
will allow you to study the relationship of culture
to both religion and ethics, and to examine the
nature and function of music, art and literature in
this respect. You will also have the opportunity to
study the wider influence of religious cultures on
their contemporary contexts.
This course offers a broad grounding in ethical
theory from Plato to Nietzsche, literature from
Greek tragedy to contemporary fiction, and
focuses especially on the Abrahamic religions
of Judaism, Islam and Christianity that helped
shape western culture. You will develop the
knowledge and skills to tackle some of the most
enduring, fundamental and fascinating human
questions: What is beauty? How is it related to
truth and goodness? Can we express God and
transcendence in music, art and literature? Does
humanitys cultural creativity reflect something
divine? How do religious cultures influence
politics? How do ancient religious cultures
and philosophies influence our understanding
of justice and the good life? How do art and
literature influence worship and prayer? Does
human life have a purpose?

Year one
Core modules in year one will introduce you to a
wide range of issues in religion, culture and ethics
through study of central elements of Christian
philosophical and theological thought and their
impact through to the present day, as well as
introductory modules in Islam and Judaism. You
will also take Great Religious Texts 1 and 2, which
are core modules for all our first year students
and are taught in small seminar groups. Optional
modules will be chosen from those on offer in
theology and religious studies, and you may
also choose to take subsidiary modules in
other departments.
Year two
You will take the following core modules in year
two: Theological Ethics: Theory and Practice;
Explaining Religion; Literature and Religion and
Great Religious Debates. Optional modules will
allow you to develop your interests in those areas
studied in year one or choose from a wider range
of topics on offer in theology and religious studies.
You may also choose to take subsidiary modules
in other departments.
Year three
In your final year you will take the core dissertation
module. Beyond this there is a wide range of
choices with the option to decide whether to
focus on particular areas within the study of
religion, culture and ethics or continue with a
broader range of topics. Optional modules are
chosen from BA Theology and Religious Studies
options on page 10.

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

BA Theology and Religious Studies

Theology is a remarkably varied subject and at


Nottingham you will be introduced to a range of
disciplines, including the study of religious texts,
philosophy, history, archaeology and sociology.
Year one
The core modules in year one are designed to
provide you with a grounding in theology and
religious studies in the central areas of:
philosophy of religion and ethics; Christian
theology; biblical studies; religious history;
and Islam and Judaism. You will also have the
opportunity to learn Greek or Hebrew, or take
other optional modules either in theology and
religious studies or from other departments.

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Year two
You will study two core modules Explaining
Religion and Great Religious Debates. Alongside
these you will explore in more depth areas studied
in the first year through a range of optional
modules.
Year three
In the final year, in addition to the core
dissertation module, there is a wide range
of choices allowing you to develop your particular
interests within theology and religious studies.

Typical modules
Year one

Year two

Year three

Semester one
Core modules:
Great Religious Texts 1
Hebrew Bible: History,
Literature and Theology
Christian Thought
and Culture to 1600
Introduction to Islam

Core modules:
Explaining Religion
Great Religious Debates

Optional modules include:


Darwinism
Love and Death
The Spirit of Utopia: Critical
Theory, Politics and Religion
Justice
Determinism and
Free Will in Theological
and Scientific Perspectives
Doing Theology with
Richard Wagner
Virtue Ethics and Literature
Religion and Fantasy
Sex, Violence and God:
Ethics in the Hebrew Bible
The Gospel of Matthew
The Jewish Context of Jesus
and Early Christianity
Elements of a
Biblical Theology
Biblical Language Studies
Eastern Orthodox Christianity
in the Modern World
Religion in 20th-Century Britain
The Eucharist:
A Historical Approach
Jewish Theology and
Philosophy: From Philo
to Levinas
Ibn Taymiyya: Jihadist
or Theologian?
Islam and Gender
Grace and Nature
Modern Jewish Thought
God and Money
The Quran in its Jewish and
Christian Context

Optional modules include:


Biblical Greek 1
Biblical Hebrew 1
Atheism
Christ and Culture
(Or choose subsidiary modules
from other departments)

Everything about the Department of Theology


and Religious Studies at Nottingham has
meant that I never regretted my decision to
study here even for a minute.
BA Theology student

Semester two
Core modules:
Great Religious Texts 2
Theology and Ethics in the
Modern World
Philosophy for Theologians
Introduction to the Study
of the New Testament
Introduction to Judaism
Optional modules include:
Biblical Greek 2
Biblical Hebrew 2
The Bible in Music,
Art and Literature
The Buddhist Tradition

Optional modules include:


The Philosophy of Religion
Money, Sex and Power:
Religion and Critical Theory
Creation
Problems of Religious Diversity
Body and Soul: Human
Identity and Ethics
Literature and Religion:
An Introduction
Prophets and Prophecy in the
Hebrew Bible
Archaeological Excavation:
Tel Azekah, Israel
The Life and Teaching of Jesus
Biblical Language Studies
The Theology of Paul
What Does God Expect? New
Testament Ethics
Following Jesus: Identity,
Discipleship and Community
in Early Christianity
Darkness and Light:
Medieval Christian Mysticism
Holy People and Places in
the Early Christian World
Religion in 19th-Century Britain
Rabbinic Judaism
History of Muslim-Christian
Relations
Islamic Philosophy and
Theology
The Trinity

You will also work on an


8,000-word dissertation.
9

10

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Joint honours
BA English and Theology

This course combines the study of English


literature and language with grounding in the
sources and contemporary context for theological
reflection. This is done by studying the biblical
writings, key thinkers, ideas, events and
movements that shaped the course of western
Christian thought; studying other religious
traditions, including philosophical questions about
religion and relations between traditions; and
studying modules in English literature, language
and optionally either drama or medieval studies.
Year one
In English you have a choice of modules from the
areas of English language and applied linguistics,
modern English literature, medieval studies and
drama and performance. In theology, you will gain
a broad foundation through a choice of modules in
the central areas of the discipline including biblical
studies, Christian theology, philosophy of religion
and ethics, religious history, Islam and Judaism.

Year two
In English, you will choose modules to develop
your studies in at least two areas of the discipline.
In theology, you will take a core module exploring
the relationship between religion and literature.
In addition, you may choose to study particular
areas in more depth such as biblical studies,
literature and religion, philosophy of religion,
political theology, or other religious traditions
such as Hinduism.
Year three
Joint honours students enjoy the same range of
final year options in English as single honours. In
theology, there is also a wide range of third year
options. In theology, there is also a wider range of
third year options including modules dedicated to
the study of religion and theology in literature.

Typical modules
Year one

Year two

Year three

In year one, you will be required


to take 60 credits of modules in
theology and religious studies
from the list below and 60
credits of modules in English.

In year two you are required


to take one core module in
theology, plus 40 credits
chosen from other modules
offered to second year students.

You will choose 60


credits of modules from the
year-three options on the
BA Theology and Religious
Studies course.

Optional theology
modules include:
Christian Thought
and Culture to 1600
Theology and Ethics in
the Modern World
Philosophy for Theologians
Hebrew Bible: History,
Literature and Theology
Introduction to the Study
of the New Testament
Introduction to Islam
Introduction to Judaism

You will also take 60 credits


in English modules.

You will also study modules


in English to bring the total
number of credits to 120.

Core theology module:


Literature and Religion:
An Introduction
Optional theology modules are
chosen from BA Theology and
Religious Studies options on
page 10.

For more information about the English element of this course, please see www.nottingham.ac.uk/english

11

12

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Independent study in Highfields House


on University Park Campus.

BA Philosophy and Theology

This course combines rigorous training in analytic


philosophy with the study of some of the main
areas of theological thought. You will gain a good
grounding in the sources and contemporary context
for theological reflection by studying a range of
religious texts together with key thinkers, ideas,
events and movements that shaped the course
of western Christian thought, and by studying
other religious traditions. You will also develop an
understanding of the central ideas and movements
in analytic philosophy, while acquiring important
skills in clear thinking, argument and communication.
Year one
In philosophy, you will be introduced to the
subject through a series of core modules in
central philosophical problems and you will also
be able to choose optional modules. In theology,
you will gain a broad foundation through a choice
of modules in the central areas of the discipline
including biblical studies, Christian theology,
philosophy of religion and ethics, religious
history, Islam and Judaism.

Year two
In philosophy, you will choose from a variety of
optional modules, which will build on material
studied in year one, allowing you to develop and
broaden your philosophical skills and knowledge.
In theology, you will take a core module in The
Philosophy of Religion. In addition, you may
choose to study particular areas in more depth
such as biblical studies, literature and religion,
philosophy of religion, political theology, or other
religious traditions such as Hinduism.
Year three
In philosophy, there will be free choice from a
variety of more advanced modules, including the
opportunity to write a dissertation on a topic of
your own choosing. In theology, there is a wide
range of choices. You will have the opportunity
to concentrate on philosophical approaches to
religion or to develop your interest in areas such
as biblical studies, theological ideas, religious
studies, and religion and culture.

Typical modules
Year one

Year two

Year three

In year one, you will be


required to take 60 credits
of modules in theology and
religious studies from the list
below and 60 credits of
modules from philosophy.

In year two you will take one


core module in theology and
religious studies, plus 40 credits
chosen from other modules
offered to year-two students.
You will also take 60 credits
of modules offered by the
Department of Philosophy.

In year three you will choose a


minimum of 40 and a maximum
of 80 credits of modules from
the year three options on the
BA Theology and Religious
Studies course.

Optional theology
modules include:
Christian Thought and Culture
to 1600
Theology and Ethics in the
Modern World
Philosophy for Theologians
Hebrew Bible: History,
Literature and Theology
Introduction to the Study of the
New Testament
Introduction to Islam
Introduction to Judaism

Core theology module:


The Philosophy of Religion

You will also choose modules


in philosophy to bring the
total number of credits for
the year to 120.

Optional theology modules are


chosen from the BA Theology
and Religious Studies options
on page 10.

For more information about the philosophy element of this course, please see
www.nottingham.ac.uk/philosophy
13

14

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

BA Religion, Philosophy and Ethics

Our joint honours degree in religion, philosophy


and ethics draws on the combined expertise of
the Department of Theology and Religious Studies
and the Department of Philosophy to offer one
of the broadest humanities degrees, which is of
the utmost relevance to the contemporary world.
The political and social importance of religion
in todays society cannot be overestimated.
Meanwhile, the world faces profound questions
of human identity and ethics, which the
philosophical and theological traditions tackle
in many different ways.
Year one
Core modules in year one will introduce you to
a wide range of issues in philosophy, religion
and ethics from a variety of philosophical and
theological perspectives. You may choose to
focus on either philosophy or theology and
religious studies in your choice of optional
modules or combine the two.

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Year two
Core modules are offered in philosophy of religion
and ethics, and you will also study modern
conceptions of religion in the module Explaining
Religion. Optional modules are chosen from those
on offer in the Departments of Theology and
Religious Studies and Philosophy, allowing you to
develop your interests in those areas studied in
year one or study something new.
Year three
In year three you will have the flexibility to focus
on either philosophy or theology and religious
studies, with a wide range of modules on offer
in both departments, or you may choose to give
equal weighting to both. You will have the option
of writing a dissertation, which will allow you
to develop your interest in a particular subject
through independent research.

Typical modules
Year one

Year two

Year three

Core modules:
Theology and Religious Studies
Theology and Ethics in the
Modern World
Philosophy for Theologians
Introduction to Islam
Introduction to Judaism

Core modules:
Theology and Religious Studies
The Philosophy of Religion
Theological Ethics: Theory
and Practice
Explaining Religion

In year three you will have the


flexibility to focus on either
philosophy or theology and
religious studies, or give equal
weighting to both.

Philosophy
Self, Mind and Body
Introduction to Ethics
Elementary Logic
Reasoning and Argument
Optional modules include:
Theology and Religious Studies
Great Religious Texts 1
Great Religious Texts 2
Philosophy
Applied Ethics
The Existence of God

Theres a lot of lively debate going on between


the departments. I love the way that theology and
philosophy overlap with other disciplines thats
really exciting for me, to have a mixture of interests
and study opportunities.

Or additional modules
from those on offer in
theology and religious
studies and/or philosophy.

Philosophy
Normative Ethics
Optional modules include:
Theology and Religious Studies
Love and Death
Virtue Ethics and Literature
Body and Soul: Human
Identity and Ethics
Money, Sex and Power:
Religion and Critical Theory
Philosophy
The Nature of Meaning
Mind and Consciousness
Being, Becoming and Reality
Freedom and Obligation

Optional modules include:


Theology and Religious Studies
Darwinism
Justice
The Spirit of Utopia: Critical
Theory, Politics and Religion
Religion and Fantasy
Sex, Violence and God:
Ethics in the Hebrew Bible
Philosophy
Personal Identity
Philosophy of Art
Marx
Free Will and Action
Environmental Ethics

For more information about the philosophy element of this course, please see
www.nottingham.ac.uk/philosophy

Joshua Heyes
BA Philosophy and Theology

15

16

17

Great Religious Texts 2


(seminar)
Introduction
to Judaism
(seminar)

Theology and Ethics in the


Modern World (lecture)

Introduction to Judaism
(lecture)

The Bible in Music, Art and


Literature (lecture)

3-4pm

NB: Some seminars take place on alternate weeks.

Philosophy for
Theologians
(seminar)

Friday

Philosophy for
Theologians
(lecture)

Thursday

Wednesday

For Nottinghams KIS data, please see


individual course entries at
www.nottingham.ac.uk/ugstudy

Introduction
to the Study
of the New
Testament
(lecture)

Key Information Sets (KIS) are comparable


sets of information about full- or part-time
undergraduate courses and are designed to meet
the information needs of prospective students.
All KIS data is published on the Unistats website:
www.unistats.co.uk

Theology and
Ethics in the
Modern World
(seminar)

Key Information Sets

Tuesday

This is particularly the case in our unique first


year module, Great Religious Texts, which is
taught entirely through small groups attending
weekly seminars with an individual tutor.

Please see an example of a typical Spring


semester timetable on the page opposite.

Introduction
to the Study
of the New
Testament
(lecture)

In seminars you will be taught with a group of


fellow students, with discussion focusing on
a text or topic youve previously prepared, in
an atmosphere that is friendly and informal.
The purpose of the seminar is to provide an
opportunity to try out new ideas and think through
difficulties with the support of fellow learners.
Students often establish friendships through
seminar groups, as well as learning more about
other peoples ideas.

For the rest of the time you will be working


independently, doing the necessary reading in
preparation for seminars, writing essays or
working on seminar presentations. If you would
like to start preparing for your degree in advance,
have a look at some of the books on the first-year
pre-arrival reading list at
www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Monday

Seminars

Your typical weeks work may well feel strange at


first after school or college since there are fewer
timetabled teaching hours. Each week in the first
year you can expect to attend about 12 to 14
hours of lectures and seminars.

2-3pm

Your week

Lectures are the most formal type of instruction,


though very often they will include the opportunity
for you to raise questions. Lectures are valuable
in that they:
can give you an opportunity to hear
a specialist develop a significant
(perhaps as yet unpublished) argument
present information which is not readily
available in books
show visual material for example PowerPoint
images and DVDs or video clips

1-2pm

Lectures

Most modules combine lecture and seminar


instruction, so you will have a chance to discuss
and question the material presented in lectures.

12-1pm

This module helps develop your ability to engage


in close reading and analysis of texts from a range
of religious traditions as well as allowing you
to grow in confidence by participating in
discussion with a small and familiar group
of fellow students on your course.

11am
-12pm

The two main forms of teaching you will


encounter are lectures and seminars as
well as one-to-one supervision for your
dissertation. The aim is to stimulate your
curiosity and provide you with essential
information by means of lectures in the first
instance, so as to establish a solid grounding
in the core of the subject. In addition, all
tutors have drop-in hours when you can talk
privately with them about your work.

10-11am

How will I study?

4-5pm

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

9-10am

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

18

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

How will I be assessed?

Our degree programmes are modular, which


means you undertake modules of study with
assessment at the end of each semester.

The teaching year

The teaching year is divided into two semesters.


The first semester lasts for 14 weeks, with 12
weeks for teaching and revision, and two weeks
for assessment. The second semester follows
the same pattern, but there are two additional
weeks at the end to complete the assessment
process and enable returning students to discuss
their results with tutors and begin to plan the next
sessions work.
Although the teaching year is divided into two
semesters for organisational purposes, this is
fitted into the traditional pattern of three terms:
one before Christmas; one between Christmas
and Easter; and one after Easter.

Students in a theology lecture in


the Humanities Building.

Assessment methods

Assessment for your degree is based on a


combination of coursework (including essays
but also less formal kinds of writing for some
modules), oral presentations and formal
examinations; the precise assessment varies
from one module to another.
Where a module lasts for one semester,
assessment is undertaken at the end of that
semester. Where a module fills two semesters,
assessment is at the end of the second semester,
although your progress will be measured
throughout the year.

Your final degree classification

Your second year counts for 40% of your final,


overall grade, and your third year counts for 60%.
The first year is a qualifying year, which means
you must pass this year to progress to the second
year, but your mark will not contribute to your
degree classification.

Being a theology student is unique within


the whole University. The department is
simply fantastic! Every student is part of a
community theology is really close-knit
which makes it great fun. The department is
also very supportive.
BA Theology student

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Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Career and employment


prospects

When I originally embarked on the Nottingham


Advantage Award I wasnt sure what to expect.
It has not only enhanced my CV but has also
developed me as a person and I would
wholeheartedly recommend any student takes
part in the scheme.

The University of Nottingham is the most


targeted university by Britains leading
graduate employers.* Our students develop
oral and written communication skills,
understanding and conceptual analysis,
critical analysis, and personal insight,
through both collaborative work and
independent study.

Graduate career destinations

After completing your degree you will be able to


understand the importance of theological ideas in
a historical and philosophical context, engage in
critical thinking, and make disciplined judgements.
This equips you for a wide range of careers
especially those which involve ideas, words
and people.
Many theology graduates go on to managerial
or administrative positions, or into professions
such as counselling, journalism, publishing, law
or teaching. Some may decide to pursue various
kinds of church ministry, including those who will
undertake further training at a theological college
as preparation for ordination.

Average starting salary

In 2012, the average starting salary for


first-degree graduates of theology and
religious studies was 18,154 with the
highest being 30,000.**
Recent graduates: Tim Lees Solicitor (after
a Graduate Diploma in Legal Studies and a
Legal Practice Course), White & Case; Emily
Woffenden, Lloyds Banking Group Graduate
Leadership Scheme; Lucy Tiller TeachFirst.***

The Universitys Careers


and Employability Service

Our Careers and Employability Service, based on


University Park Campus, offers an extensive range
of careers-oriented services, including CV-writing
sessions, interview advice, presentations by major
employers and general career advice. Dedicated
members of staff deal with arts and humanities,
including theology and religious studies students,
and organise events including alumni careers
talks. As a University of Nottingham graduate,
you will receive life-long support from the service.
This means that you can ask a careers adviser to
look over your job application by email or Skype,
or in person, and you can also access a database
of graduate vacancies. For more information see
www.nottingham.ac.uk/careers

Christian Middleton
BA Theology 2013

Nottingham Advantage Award

The Universitys Advantage Award is a programme


of activities developed to recognise and reward
extracurricular responsibilities. It allows you to gain
recognition for participating in a wide range of
activities accredited by the University and shows
employers that you have gained valuable skills.
For further information, please visit
www.nottingham.ac.uk/advantageaward
Data sources:
* The Graduate Market in 2014 High Fliers Research.
** For 2011/12 full-time, first-degree home and EU graduates who
declared a salary.
*** The University of Nottingham Graduate Destination Statistics,
known destinations of 2011/12 leavers.

Students at graduation on University Park Campus.


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22

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

The department is great. Were quite a small


department, but big enough. We get to know the
lecturers and fellow students really well. Its a really
friendly and easy environment to learn in.
Benjamin Baker/BA Theology

Find out more about Benjamins experience at


www.nottingham.ac.uk/go/
benjaminbaker

Scan the code to


watch this video on
your smart phone.

Benjamin is reading in the Humanities Building.

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Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Graduate profiles
As a lawyer, I work with texts. Studying theology
taught me to pay very close attention to difficult
texts, to unpack them, analyse them, and use them
in forming arguments. I suspect the fact that these
texts were more interesting than the cases and
textbooks you read at law school meant I developed
such transferable skills more acutely than I might
otherwise have done. I quite regularly read things
that radically altered the way I looked at the world
that practice of having your perspective shift made
me more open-minded in my reading, which has
helped me find solutions to difficult legal problems.
I also work with people. Encountering the ideas
of people from radically different eras, cultures,
and traditions and moreover considering with
academics and other students what these ideas
mean in our own time and place inevitably makes
you better at understanding the perspectives of
others. That doesnt mean you surrender your
own ground, but rather that you gain a better
understanding of it and where it lies in relation
to the positions of others. Developing this skill in
the context of theology has made me better at
understanding the positions of my clients and those
they do business with.

25

The value of not being just another law or business


graduate, but having an interesting perspective and
background to share when talking to colleagues or
clients in the pub is also not to be underestimated.
If you become an interesting, articulate graduate
youll find that youre in demand. Getting a high
mark in theology because you loved it will be far
better for your career prospects than a low mark in
supposedly more marketable degrees.

Tim Lees
Solicitor, White & Case
BA Theology 2009

During my third year I gained a place on the Lloyds


Banking Group Graduate Leadership Scheme
for the following September. This is a highly
competitive scheme and I think it goes to show that
a theology degree allows for any career option. I
found that my interviewers were very intrigued to
know more about my degree!
I think that certain skills gained during my degree
have really helped me, including presentation skills,
writing skills and working under pressure towards
a deadline. As part of one interview, I had to study
a piece of information and then present it to my
interviewer for 15 minutes. Having had experience
of presentations in my degree certainly helped
with this. I think that learning presentation skills is
extremely important whatever career you go onto
after university and allowed me to develop my
public speaking and confidence in talking to groups
of people.

To those considering studying at Nottingham I


would really stress enjoying the whole university
experience. Get involved in extracurricular activities
and grasp new opportunities. Also, be open-minded.
Theology at Nottingham is intellectually challenging
and hugely diverse and will provide you with a
range of knowledge and skills for the future. It can
lead onto virtually any career you choose and I was
definitely sad to leave it behind!

Emily Woffenden
Lloyds Banking Group
BA Theology 2013

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Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Staff research interests

Academic staff in the Department of Theology


and Religious Studies work at the cutting edge of
research and offer modules that closely reflect their
areas of expertise.
Our community of 16 full-time members of staff
includes:

Dr Jon Hoover
Associate Professor of Islamic
Studies

Jons special interests include Islamic intellectual


history, Islamic theology and philosophy, ChristianMuslim relations and the thought of Ibn Qayyim
al-Jawziyya and Ibn Taymiyya. While Ibn Taymiyya
may be known today for being quoted by Osama
bin Laden and inspiring movements ranging
from violent extremism to Salafism and reformist
modernism, Jons 2007 book Ibn Taymiyyas
Theodicy of Perpetual Optimism engages with
a wide range of issues regarding his distinctive
Islamic theology and legacy.
Before arriving in Nottingham in 2010, Jon taught
Islamic Theology at the Near East School of
Theology in Beirut, and in his current teaching Jon
covers the Islamic tradition from its origins to the
present day. He encourages students to explore
the diverse ways that Muslims have interpreted
their texts and lived out their faith through history.
Modules offered by Jon include:
Introduction to Islam
Ibn Taymiyya: Jihadist or Theologian?
Islamic Philosophy and Theology

27

Dr Conor Cunningham
Associate Professor in Theology
and Philosophy

Conor is the author of the highly-acclaimed work


Darwins Pious Idea on the subject of evolution,
and wrote and presented the award-winning
BBC2 documentary Did Darwin Kill God?
Conor has recently returned from a period of
research in Princeton where he was a Fellow at
the Center of Theological Inquiry working with an
inter-disciplinary team on the question of Evolution
and Human Nature and Theologian in Residence
at Princeton Theological Seminary.
Conor is co-director of the Centre of Theology
and Philosophy, which is based in the department,
and on the editorial board of a number of journals
including Science, Philosophy and Theology.
His areas of expertise also include philosophical
theology, phenomenology and metaphysics and he
is currently writing a book on the nature of the soul.
Modules offered by Conor include:
Darwinism
The Philosophy of Religion

Professor Philip Goodchild


Professor of Religion and Philosophy

Philips areas of expertise include the philosophy of


religion, the theology of money and globalisation, and
truth and religious difference. Philips writing on the
theology of money links the disciplines of economics
and theology. His work in this area is internationally
respected and widely cited, and he is a Fellow of
the Rethinking Capitalism Initiative (University of
California).
In his book Theology and Money Philip anticipated
the global credit crisis, having given a fresh account
of capitalism and the faith system inherent in the
credit system. Philips latest book On Philosophy as a
Spiritual Exercise explores the nature of reason as an
embodied, engaged and communicative practice.
Modules offered by Philip include:
Love and Death
God and Money
Problems of Religious Diversity
The Buddhist Tradition

Professor Richard Bell


Professor of Theology

Richard has published widely on the theology of Paul


and on other issues in New Testament theology, with
books ranging from Provoked to Jealousy, on Romans
9-11, to Deliver Us From Evil, which addresses the
question of the defeat of Satan.

Dr Alison Milbank
Associate Professor in Theology
and Literature

Alisons research focuses on the relation of religion


to culture in the post-Enlightenment period, with
particular interest in non-realist literary and artistic
expression, such as the Gothic, the fantastic, horror
and fantasy. Her publications include Chesterton
and Tolkien as Theologians: The Fantasy of the Real,
which considers their work as a theological project
appropriate to an intellectual attempt to return to faith
in a secular age.
Alison also holds the position of Priest Vicar at
Southwell Minster and her recent work For the
Parish (with Andrew Davison) presents a theological
engagement with developments in the Church of
England relating to the role of the parish.
Modules offered by Alison include:
Literature and Religion
Religion and Fantasy
Virtue Ethics and Literature
You can find out more about all of our staff at
www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology/people
Watch them discussing their specialist areas in our
Why Study? video series:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology/videos

As well as a PhD in theology (Tbingen, Germany)


Richard also holds a PhD in theoretical physics
(University College, London) and these areas of
expertise are combined in his work in the field of
theology and science. Richards most recent book,
Wagners Parsifal represents his third main research
area: the relationship between theology and music.
Modules offered by Richard include:
Determinism and Free Will in Theological and
Scientific Perspectives
Doing Theology with Richard Wagner
The Theology of Paul

28

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Your student experience


everything you need to know

Youve read lots about the degree programme


youre interested in; now its time to explore
life outside of the lecture theatre. Read on to
discover why being a student at The University
of Nottingham is a truly exciting experience.
To coin an old phrase, there really is something for
everyone, and you may be surprised at the sheer
volume of activities and opportunities on offer,
all designed to make your time at university as
memorable as possible. University is not all work,
work, work; there is much more to it than that!

Your University of Nottingham


at home and around the world

We are proud of our stunning campuses and are


continually investing in our grounds, buildings and
facilities to ensure that you have only the best
surroundings in which to live and study. Our main
UK campuses have all gained external recognition
in the form of numerous awards over the years,
and its not hard to see why. A free bus ride can
transport you from the striking architecture and
innovative technology of Jubilee Campus, to the
rolling parkland and period buildings at University
Park, through to the beautiful setting of Sutton
Bonington. Combine this with features including
sports centres, cafes, art galleries, shops,
woodland, contemporary gardens and extensive
wildlife, and you have an outstanding environment
that inspires and excites students and visitors
alike.
With campuses in China and Malaysia, as well
as links with more than 220 partner institutions
in over 40 countries, studying at The University
of Nottingham will also give your degree a truly
global flavour and the chance to explore the world
around you. Find out more:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/about/campuses
Discover our worldwide connections through our
global map: globalmap.nottingham.ac.uk

Your new home from home

Our halls of residence are great


places to catch up with friends.
29

The University of Nottingham offers a guarantee


of University accommodation for one year to all
new full-time undergraduate students, subject to
the following conditions: you make Nottingham
your firm choice, return your accommodation
application by the set deadline*, accept your offer
of accommodation by the deadline given, and
have an unconditional status no later than August
2015.

If you are an international student, this guarantee


applies for three years. Rooms are available as
single or shared, en suite or shared bathroom,
all the way through to studio flats, and vary from
self-catered, partially catered (five evening meals
per week) to fully catered (19 meals per week).
We have halls of residence on campus or offcampus if youd prefer. Prices reflect the room and
facilities chosen. For more information, including a
breakdown of the pricing, see
www.nottingham.ac.uk/accommodation
* For details of the deadline, please check
www.nottingham.ac.uk/accommodation

Your support network

Throughout your university journey there will


be numerous people on hand to support you,
including tutors and dedicated staff who will be
able to advise you on various aspects of life as a
student.
In addition, our Student Services Centres, found
on all three UK campuses, provide a range of
support, information and specialist services to
enhance your student experience. They form part
of a comprehensive network of services at the
University, designed to support you through your
studies.
Academic Support provides a personal and
practical approach to academic study the
service also provides specialist academic support
for students with dyslexia, dyspraxia and other
specific learning difficulties; Disability Support
coordinates support and access arrangements
for students with a disability or long-term medical
condition; Financial Support provides information
on the sources of finance available from
government agencies and the University itself, and
gives advice about financial matters.
Student Services also advises on issues ranging
from childcare, counselling and health to
international student support, chaplaincy and faith
support, as well as offering advice on paying your
tuition and accommodation fees. Whatever you
may need support with, they will either be able to
help or point you in the direction of someone who
can.
Find out more:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/studentservices
30

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Nottingham city centre is always buzzing


with people and interesting sights.

Getting involved in your


Students Union

As soon as you start at The University of


Nottingham, you are automatically a member
of our Students Union, considered one of the
best in the country. There are literally hundreds
of activities that you could be part of, providing
you with the perfect opportunity to take up a
new hobby or pursue existing interests. Choose
from over 200 student-run societies, covering all
interests and abilities, more than 75 sports clubs,
as well as local and national volunteering projects,
to which you can commit as much or as little time
as you wish.
Our Students Union is also home to a number of
award-winning student-run media groups, which
enable you to gain practical work experience both
behind the scenes or centre stage as a presenter,
actor or journalist. The Nottingham New Theatre,
Impact magazine, Nottingham University Television
Station (NUTS) and University Radio Nottingham
(URN) have all been recognised as the best
in their field, winning a clutch of awards for
outstanding achievements. Here at Nottingham we
have the Best Broadcaster, the Guardian Student
Publication of the Year, the Best Student Station
in the country and a student theatre company that
won no less than seven awards at the National
Student Drama Festival.
However you decide to become involved in the
Union, you can be sure you will make new friends
and learn new skills, all while having a lot of fun!
Find out more: www.su.nottingham.ac.uk

Exploring your new city

A 10-minute bus ride from University Park


Campus, Nottingham city centre has plenty to
offer, whatever you like to get up to in your spare
time.
For music lovers, you can take your pick from
the world-famous Rock City, Capital FM Arena
or one of the smaller gig venues for a more
intimate musical experience. Nottingham is rich
in performance venues, with comedy clubs
and theatres catering for lovers of drama,
musicals, ballet and panto. We are very proud
of our sporting heritage, and with football clubs
Nottingham Forest and Notts County in the city,
as well as Trent Bridge and the National Ice
Centre on your doorstep, you might just become a
sports fan if youre not one already.
History and culture can be found in all corners of
the city, with Nottingham Castle, the Galleries of
Justice Museum, Nottingham Contemporary one
of the largest contemporary art spaces in the
UK, art house cinemas and three of the worlds
oldest pubs all providing points of interest. If you
enjoy shopping, Nottingham is perfect for you;
independent boutiques and vintage shops in the
bohemian area of Hockley mix with high street
names in our large shopping centres to make
Nottingham a veritable shopping haven.
Find out more:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/nottinghamlife
Download our city guide:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/ugstudy/downloads
Explore the world of Nottingham through our
GlobalNotts web app:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/globalnotts

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32

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Students in the quadrangle of the Trent


Building on University Park Campus.

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Postgraduate opportunities

After finishing their undergraduate degree


course some of our students take their
studies further.

Taught masters

The Department of Theology and Religious


Studies offers the following masters degrees:
MA Theology and Religious Studies
MA Church History (distance learning)
MA Jewish History and Thought
(distance learning)
MA Systematic and Philosophical Theology
(distance learning)
MA Theology and Religious Studies
This course will give you the opportunity to follow
specific pathways in philosophical theology;
theology, philosophy and literature; or biblical
interpretation and theology. Alternately, you may
choose a general pathway, which encourages
you to understand and analyse aspects of
biblical texts, Christian theology and religious
studies at a significantly deeper level than in your
undergraduate studies.
MA Church History (distance learning)
The MA Church History course offers a range
of modules from earliest Christian history to the
present. The course draws on the vast richness of
the historical resources of the Christian tradition
to explore the interface between history, culture
and theology.

MA Jewish History and Thought


(distance learning)
This course provides a detailed grounding in
many aspects of Jewish studies, with an
emphasis on history and philosophy. Topics
range from rabbinic Judaism to modern
Jewish thought.
MA Systematic and Philosophical Theology
(distance learning)
This course is particularly concerned with the
historical tradition of Christian theology, its
engagement with philosophy, the relationship
between faith and reason, the critique of secular
reason, and the nature of the theological task in
the contemporary world.

Research opportunities

Nottinghams PhD students are among the most


successful in the country, according to a recent
report by the Higher Education Funding Council
for England that underlines the quality of our
postgraduate education and the support available
to doctoral students. We are ranked joint 2nd in
England on a measure of PhD completion rates.
Research opportunities available in the
department are:
Theology and/or Religious Studies (MPhil)
Theology and/or Religious Studies (MRes)
Theology and/or Religious Studies (PhD)
Find out more about postgraduate study at
www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology/
prospective/postgraduate

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Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Study abroad

As a University of Nottingham student, you


will be able to apply for a variety of study
abroad options. Whether studying at a
partner institution or undertaking a work
experience placement, spending time aboard
is a fantastic opportunity to broaden your
horizons, experience different cultures, meet
new people and develop skills that will prove
invaluable in the future and also look good on
your CV. As well as exchange opportunities at
our campuses in China and Malaysia we have
developed links with more than 220 partner
universities in over 40 countries.

Summer schools

The University also offers the chance to apply


to study abroad at overseas summer schools.
As these programmes are offered during holiday
periods, credits and grades are not transferred
back to Nottingham and you can study whatever
is of interest to you.

Universitas 21

The Universitas 21/University-wide programme


is a competitive programme that offers full-time
undergraduate students the opportunity to study
at one of our partner universities for one semester
or one academic year as part of their Nottingham
degree programme. Applicants are required to have
attained a 60% average in their first year in order
to be considered.
As a theology and religious studies student, you
can take advantage of the schools links with the
following universities through the U21 scheme:
Bucknell University, Pennsylvania, USA
Concordia University, Montral, Canada
Lund University, Lund, Sweden
McGill University, Montral, Canada
Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
University of Cape Town, South Africa
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
University of Sydney, Australia
University of Toronto, Canada

Further information on studying abroad,


including fact sheets on the opportunities
available for each department, can be found at
www.nottingham.ac.uk/
internationalstudents/exchanges

Dedicated support

If you do decide to apply to study abroad, the


Universitys International Office will offer support
from the application stage right through to your
return to the UK, with advice on everything from
immigration to possible sources of financial
support. Find out more:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/studyabroad

The CN Tower dominates the Toronto skyline.


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Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Applying for a place

We are looking for students who have the ability


and motivation to benefit from our courses, and
who will make a valuable contribution to the
department and the University. Candidates for
full-time admission are considered on the basis
of their Universities and Colleges Admissions
Service (UCAS) form.
For more information on how to make your
application stand out, have a look at our online
prospectus: www.nottingham.ac.uk/ugstudy/
applying/applicationprocess

This is the section of your UCAS form that tells


us the most about you, and you should make the
most of it. Be as specific and detailed as you
can we would like to see that you are a student
who is passionate about studying theology, can
work hard, be self-motivating and make the best
possible use of the opportunities this course might
have to offer you. Tell us about yourself and how
you spend your time outside your studies; this is
a good opportunity to try to convey something of
your personality!

Application process

The selection procedure

All applications for an undergraduate place to


study at The University of Nottingham (including
applications by overseas students) must be made
through UCAS. Candidates will be notified of
decisions through UCAS using the Students Portal.
www.ucas.com
Applications for our courses are made using the
codes on page 5.

Applying with achieved


A level grades

If you apply to us having already completed your


A levels, your application will be considered in
exactly the same way as those from candidates
with predicted grades. Please tell us something
about your gap-year activities in your UCAS
personal statement.

37

Your personal statement

Predicted grades are important, but do not


provide the whole story. We do not require
students to have taken religious studies at either
GCSE or A level, but rather welcome applications
from all those with an interest in theology. Very
often a key factor here is your desire to ask,
and be confronted with challenging questions
regarding God and human existence.
For tips and advice at every step of your application
journey, visit our undergraduate applicants area:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/ugapplicants

Required subjects

All A level subjects are regarded as acceptable.

Alternative qualifications

In this brochure you will find our A level entry


requirements but we accept a much broader
range of qualifications.
These include:
Access to HE Diploma
Advanced Diploma
BTEC HND/HNC
BTEC Extended Diploma
Cambridge Pre-U
International Baccalaureate
Irish Leaving Certificate
Scottish Advanced Highers
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma
This list is not exhaustive; we will consider
applicants with other qualifications on an
individual basis. The entry requirements for
alternative qualifications can be quite specific;
for example you may need to take certain modules
and achieve a specified grade in those modules.
Please contact us to discuss the transferability of
your qualification.

Flexible admissions policy

We recognise that some educational and


personal circumstances affect achievement. If we
judge that you have experienced circumstances
that have adversely affected your achievement, we
will consider them when assessing your academic
potential. Some courses may vary the offer as a
result. For the most up to date information about
our offers, please see the course fact files in our
online prospectus and for more information about
this policy, please see
www.nottingham.ac.uk/ugstudy/applying

Mature applicants

We encourage applications from mature students


(which means all those aged 21 or over when the
course begins). You should apply in the normal
way through UCAS (unless you want to study
part-time, in which case you should apply directly
to the department). While we accept a range
of qualifications, you should check our specific
requirements on UCAS course entry profiles. If in
doubt, please contact the admissions tutor, who
will be happy to answer any specific queries you
have about applying as a mature student.
Please email your queries to
theology-enquiries@nottingham.ac.uk.
We normally invite mature applicants in whom
we are interested to come for an interview, where
we will look for evidence of your ability to study
at a high academic level and of commitment to
the subject.

Part-time study

The department offers the opportunity to study


part-time. Applicants should note, however, that
teaching for the part-time degree takes place
during normal hours; there is no provision for
teaching in the evening, at weekends or during
vacations. Part-time students normally follow
exactly half the course of full-time students each
year, and therefore complete their degree within
six years. Entry requirements are the same as
those for full-time students on the relevant degree
course (with the same exceptions for mature
students). If youre interested in studying part-time
with us, please contact the admissions tutor rather
than applying through UCAS. Please email your
queries to theology-enquiries@nottingham.ac.uk.

38

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Frequently asked questions


International students

We welcome applications from international


students and have students from many parts of
the world studying with us at undergraduate and
postgraduate level. All international candidates
for undergraduate courses should apply through
UCAS. The Universitys International Office offers
guidance and advice on matters such as visa
and immigration regulations, working and living
in the UK, entry requirements and preparing for
coming to Nottingham and arranges a welcome
programme and coach pick-up service for new
international students each September. If you
would like to visit the University and are unable
to attend an open day the International Office will
be happy to arrange a tailor-made visit for you.
For further information please visit
www.nottingham.ac.uk/international

International Baccalaureate

UK applicants presenting qualifications in the


International Baccalaureate must attain a total
of at least 32 points (including bonus points).
Applicants presenting other qualifications such
as the European, French or International
Option Baccalaureate and the German Abitur,
will be judged on a standard equivalent to
the UK A level grades.

English language requirements

Our English language requirements are:


IELTS 7.0 (no less than 6.0 in any element).
TOEFL iBT 100 (no less than 20 in speaking
and 19 in each other element).

39
35

Preparing to study in English


academic English preparation
and support

The University of Nottingham Centre for English


Language Education (CELE) offers high quality
academic English and study skills (presessional)
programmes to prepare you to study your degree
in English. Our programmes are designed to
give international students excellent preparation
for their academic studies and are taught by
experienced, professional tutors.
CELE provides a range of programmes
throughout the year, including five-week subjectspecific courses (in some subjects) and a fourweek course in September for students with
unconditional offers, with a focus on academic
study skills.
You can continue to benefit from academic
English support with free classes throughout your
study (insessional programmes).
For more information about CELE, please visit
www.nottingham.ac.uk/cele

Deferred entry

Applicants who wish to defer their entry by a


year will not be at a disadvantage. Please tell us
something about your plans for your gap year in
your UCAS personal statement.

How much are the fees?


Like many universities in England, Nottingham
charges full-time UK and EU students an
annual tuition fee of 9,000. However, you
will not have to pay your fees while studying
the government will lend eligible students the
money, which you will start to pay back once
you have left university and are earning at least
21,000. For more information, please see
www.nottingham.ac.uk/fees
Fees for students from outside the EU vary from
subject to subject. For more information, please
see the New international students section on
www.nottingham.ac.uk/fees
What bursaries are available?
Around a third of students at Nottingham are
likely to be eligible for a non-repayable University
of Nottingham Core Bursary. Some students will
also be eligible for support through Nottingham
Potential Bursaries and the National Scholarship
Programme. These are in addition to any support
you may receive from the government.
For more information please see
www.nottingham.ac.uk/financialsupport

What support is available for


students with children?
There is a range of services provided to support
students with children, including a University day
nursery, a playscheme and playcentre day care.
There is also a scheme to help students fund
childcare. For more information, see
www.nottingham.ac.uk/child-care
What support do you offer for students
with a disability or dyslexia?
The department, like the University, is committed
to promoting access for students who have
a disability, dyslexia or a long-term medical
condition. Services provided by the University
aim to enable students to fulfil the inherent
requirements of the course as independently as
possible. Students who have a disability, specific
learning difficulty or long-term medical condition
can contact the Disability Liaison Officer in the
School of Humanities to ensure that support
is available from the start of the degree. The
Universitys Disability Statement, which lists
services, facilities and opportunities available
throughout the University can be viewed at
www.nottingham.ac.uk/disability

If you are an international applicant (outside of the


EU), please see the New international students
section on www.nottingham.ac.uk/fees

Equal opportunities policy

The University aims to create the conditions


whereby students and staff are treated solely on
the basis of their merits, abilities and potential,
regardless of gender, race, colour, nationality,
ethnic or national origin, age, socio-economic
background, disability, religious or political beliefs,
trade union membership, family circumstances,
sexual orientation or other irrelevant distinction.

40

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology

Visiting and contacting us


Open days

If youre considering applying to The University of


Nottingham we recommend that you try to attend
one of the University-wide open days, which are
held in June and September each year. Find out
more:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/opendays

Mini open days

Mini open days are much smaller than the main


open days and offer the opportunity to attend
various talks and tours as well as speak to current
students and academics. For further information
or to book a place on a mini open day, please
contact the Enquiry Centre on +44 (0)115
951 5559 or email undergraduate-enquiries@
nottingham.ac.uk

UCAS visit days

All candidates who receive an offer are invited to a


UCAS visit day, which is an opportunity for you to
see the department and the University for yourself.
You will hear about the department and its
courses from members of academic staff, choose
a taster lecture to attend and staff and students
will answer any questions you might have. You
will also be given a short tour of the campus by
current students. You will be sent information on
UCAS visit days for the school from which you
receive an offer.

Other visits

If you wish to make an informal visit to the


University prior to applying here, you are welcome
to do so, but you should contact us in advance
if you wish to visit the school or speak to an
admissions tutor and we will do our best to oblige.

Contact us

Department of Theology and Religious Studies


The University of Nottingham
University Park Campus
Nottingham, NG7 2RD
t: +44(0)115 951 5897
e: theology-enquiries@nottingham.ac.uk
w: www.nottingham.ac.uk/theology
For international student enquiries,
please contact:
The International Office
t: +44 (0)115 951 5247
f: +44 (0)115 951 5155
e: international-office@nottingham.ac.uk
w: www.nottingham.ac.uk/international
You can also connect with fellow applicants and
current students on our applicants Facebook and
Twitter pages:
UoNApplicants
@UonApplicants

This publication is available


in alternative formats:
t: +44 (0)115 951 4591
The University of Nottingham has made every effort to ensure that
the information in this brochure was accurate when published.
Please note, however, that the nature of the content means that it
is subject to change from time to time, and you should therefore
consider the information to be guiding rather than definitive.
The University of Nottingham 2014.
All rights reserved.

41

Study What
You L ve
#studywhatyoulove

Printed June 2014.


Design: www.campbellrowley.com

Arts and
Humanities

Your passion can


be your success.
Study what you love.
Our creative responses help make
us unique. Learn about the lives
of others, their thought processes
and their influences and explore
your own reactions. Well help you
turn an inspiring degree into an
inspiring career.
Find out more:
www.nottingham.ac.uk/
studywhatyoulove
42

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