Theology & Religious Studies BD/MA
TRS 2: Christian Traditions and Transformations TRS2002
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: School of Critical Studies
- Credits: 20
- Level: Level 2 (SCQF level 8)
- Typically Offered: Semester 1
- Available to Visiting Students: Yes
- Collaborative Online International Learning: No
- Curriculum For Life: No
Short Description
This course explores Christian theology in its historical and cultural context and continuing relevance. The course will examine the factors and contexts that have shaped and continue to shape Christianity, including its central characters, key developmental phases, ongoing tensions, and the contemporary proliferation of varieties of theological reflection.
Timetable
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at 11am (lecture/seminar varied) over 10 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus.
Excluded Courses
None
Assessment
The standard assessments for this course are:
■ Essay (1,500 words) - 40%
■ 3 learning journals from a choice of 4 (600 words each) - 20% each
If required, for instance where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, the following alternatives are available:
■ There is no alternative to the essay, but flexible deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustments (students should follow the usual process for extensions)
■ There is no alternative to the learning journals, but flexible deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustments (students should follow the usual process for extensions)
Further reasonable adjustments may be provided where necessary. Students are encouraged to consult with the course convenor.
Main Assessment In: December
Course Aims
This course will provide the opportunity to:
■ develop a detailed knowledge and understanding of the complex and pluriform story of Christianity and the diverse theologies that have emerged in different historical and cultural contexts
■ explore in depth some specialised topics in Christian theology and Church history
■ develop the necessary skills to engage with primary and secondary sources, recognise theological methodologies and conduct theological inquiry.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
By the end of this course students will be able to:
■ write accurately, analytically and evaluatively about the aspects of Christian theology and Church History covered in the course
■ communicate a knowledge and understanding of the development of key concepts in Christian theology and how these form a living tradition which is responsive to historical and cultural change
■ discuss the contribution of key thinkers and significant phases in the history of Christianity
■ apply knowledge gained in the course to reflect on the nature of contemporary varieties of Christian theology
■ interpret primary sources relating to the expression of Christian theological beliefs in different contexts.