MPhil in Theology, Religion, and Philosophy of Religion
Course Description
The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Theology, Religion and Philosophy of Religion is a postgraduate degree offered by the University of Cambridge. It allows students to explore Anglican Studies, Biblical Studies, Christian Doctrine, Church History, Philosophy of Religion, Religion and Conflict or World Christianities in considerable depth. The course is specially designed for those who already have a Theology degree and who may go on to study for a PhD at some point in the future. It is particularly suitable for those identified as Potential Theological Educators. The course is delivered within the Faculty of Divinity. It can be taken full-time over one year or part-time over two years.
Further information about this award is available under each of the subject headings from the Divinity Faculty.
Entrance Requirements
A candidate for the MPhil must be matriculated as a member of one of the Cambridge Colleges. Those studying for the MPhil remain resident at Westcott House during the course of their degree programme. To gain admission as a student, the candidate must be a graduate with a first class or a 2:1 honours degree with marks of at least 67% or a GPA of at least 3.7. Particular streams may have additional pre-requisite requirements. To secure funding from Ministry, the candidate would need to secure a discretionary award from the Research Degrees Panel as a Potential Theological Educator. Ordinands must ordinarily complete at least one additional year of formation in addition to the MPhil. Candidates for whom English is a second language must be able to meet English language requirements as set by the Cambridge University Graduate Admissions Office.
Teaching and Learning
Candidates for the MPhil must complete two taught modules, study of a language or methodology exercise, and a 15,000 – 20,000 word dissertation. They must also attend a series of seminars relevant to the area of work.
Assessment
Assessment is by two essays, examination (if sitting a language paper), and submission of a dissertation. Formative assessment is provided through the supervision system.
Languages
Latin, German, Hebrew, Greek, Arabic, Syriac and Aramaic are all taught within the Faculty of Divinity.
Integration with Training for Ministry
In addition to examined subjects, candidates for licensed ministry are required by the House to participate fully in the formational life of Westcott House, attend Ministry for Life and Short Intensive Courses, and complete contextual training through attachments and placements. Candidates for licensed ministry will typically complete another academic award before or after the MPhil, to be agreed with the Diocese and Ministry.