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.

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at 11am (lecture/seminar varied) over 10 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus.

None

Essay (1,500 words) - 50%

learning journal (600 words)- 10%

2 further learning journals from a choice of 3 (600 words each) - 20% each

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.

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.

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