This course provides training in research methods and interdisciplinary approaches to the study of religions at a postgraduate level. Emphasis is placed on practical skills for advanced level research in religious studies in a global context. Students will also investigate theoretical and methodological debates about the impact that religion, religious cultures and institutions have in responding to international affairs in the contemporary world.

10 x 2-hour seminars

None

None

1 report of 1000 words (20%)

10-minute presentation (20%)

1 essay of 3000 words (60%)

This course aims to:

■ Provide research training at an advanced level, covering topics including: research ethics, communication and dissemination of research findings, academic writing skills, and research integrity

■ Discuss contemporary scholarly approaches to global challenges in Religious Studies

■ Introduce a wide range of critical theories with examples of how to apply them in a variety of specific political and social contexts

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Analyse the key debates in approaches to religion, religious culture and religious actors in relation to global challenges

■ Assess a range of postcolonial, feminist, sociological and other theories relevant to religion and global challenges

■ Produce a sustained analysis of a specific theoretical approach to religious responses to crisis and communicate their findings to Masters level standard

■ Evaluate both qualitative and quantitative data relevant to the study of religion

■ Conduct research and communicate findings with academic integrity and to appropriate ethical standards

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.