Program Overview
The Master of Arts in Theology and Religious Studies at York St. John University is a rigorous postgraduate programme delivered on-campus at York St. John University. Designed for graduates and professionals seeking advanced expertise in interdisciplinary studies, the programme develops both theoretical foundations and applied skills essential for today's competitive environment.
Spanning 12 months, students engage with cutting-edge research, industry-relevant case studies, and practical projects. Instruction is delivered in English by research-active faculty with professional expertise.
The programme culminates in a dissertation or capstone project. Graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles, research careers, and doctoral study in interdisciplinary studies.
Key Program Features
- Immersive On-Campus Experience: In-person seminars, laboratory sessions, and professional networking at York St. John University.
- Expert Faculty: Taught by research-active academics and practitioners with deep expertise in Interdisciplinary Studies.
- Diverse International Cohort: Study alongside students from around the world, broadening your global professional network.
- Research-Informed Curriculum: Content grounded in the latest academic research and real-world industry practice.
- Dissertation / Capstone Project: Culminating independent project applying your expertise to an original research question or industry challenge.
- Dedicated Career Support: Access to career coaching, employer networking events, and job placement assistance.
- 12 months Duration: Part-time and accelerated options may be available — enquire with the admissions office.
Career Opportunities
Career outcomes
Where could Religion MA take you? This postgraduate degree could lead you to a career directly related to religion, or it could take you in a completely different direction, using the many transferrable skills you will develop. This will give you an advantage for a career in: Teaching Research Policy Third sector and community projects Youth work Social Services Work with faith-based organisations Alumni stories Visit our YSJ Snapshots blog to see what our past students from across the University have done with their York St John degrees. Stand out from the crowd with postgraduate study Far fewer people have postgraduate degrees than undergraduate qualifications. This gives you something extra to set yourself apart in a competitive graduate job market. Our careers service, Future You, provides support tailored to your ambitions. Through this service you can access: Employer events LinkedIn, CV and cover letter sessions Workshops on application writing and interview skills Work experience and volunteering opportunities Personalised career advice This support does not end when you graduate. You can access our expert career advice for the rest of your life. We will help you gain the experience and confidence you need to succeed.
Program Curriculum
Course overview
This Religion MA is focused on the intersection between Religion and public life.You will examine the relationship between Religion and key issues that affect all of our lives, including: Issues of poverty and inequality Diversity and inclusion Sustainability and the environmental crisis With an emphasis on research, this course will develop your research skills, as you explore different methodologies, disciplines and theoretical outlooks. Flexibility is built in, so you can study to suit your own research interests and preferred approaches. These can include philosophical, theological or social scientific approaches to the study of religion and spirituality. We have designed the course to be relevant and contemporary, and you will have opportunities to engage with those who are making real changes in the wider religious landscape. This might include religious leaders, worshippers participating in action for social justice, and organisations working for social change. The MA draws on the thriving research culture within the Religion department, the School of Humanities and York St John University as a whole. You will especially benefit from engaging with the Centre for Religion in Society , and our flagship Ebor Lectures . Throughout the course, we address the need for change towards social justice, examining the ways in which Religion has been both an obstacle to, and a source of inspiration for, bringing about positive social change.
Admission Requirements
Entry requirements
Qualifications Minimum entry requirements 2:2 honours degree Interview You may be invited to interview We welcome applicants with academic backgrounds from across humanities and social sciences. Some previous students have studied Religion, Philosophy or Theology at undergraduate level, while others have previously specialised in areas such as Sociology, Geography or Politics, or have relevant professional experience to support their application. International students If you are an international student you will need to show that your qualifications match our entry requirements. Information about international qualifications and entry requirements can be found on our International pages. If English is not your first language you will need to show that you have English Language competence at IELTS level 6.5 (with no skill below 6.0) or equivalent. International entry requirements Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) If you do not have traditional qualifications, you might be able to provide evidence of professional experience in the subject as an alternative way to meet the entry requirements. This is called Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL). Appropriate references and records of employment would need to be presented to support your case for admission. Terms and conditions Our terms and conditions, policies and procedures contain important information about studying at York St John University. You can read them on our Admissions page .
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
GBP 10,000/year (international)
Fees and funding
UK 2026 - 2027 entry The tuition fee for 2026 entry to this postgraduate course is: £8,800 for full time study £4,400 per year for part time study These costs apply to all UK, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man students. Postgraduate loans are available to help you pay for your master’s course. Find out more about funding your postgraduate studies. Funding opportunities International 2026 - 2027 entry The tuition fee for 2026 entry to this postgraduate course is: £11,800 for 1 year of full time study £5,900 per year for part time study These costs apply to all students living outside the UK. Due to immigration laws, if you are an international student on a student visa, you must study full time. For more information about visa requirements and short-term study visas, please visit the International Visa and Immigration pages. Find out more about funding your postgraduate studies. International Fees and Funding Tuition fees UK 2026-27 £8,800 full time International 2026-27 £11,800 full time Alumni Scholarships If you are alumni of York St John University we have scholarships available to help you continue your studies. Scholarships for alumni
Additional costs and financial support Course-related costs While studying for your degree, there may be additional costs related to your course. This may include purchasing personal equipment and stationery, books and optional field trips. Accommodation and living costs View our accommodation pages for detailed information on accommodation and living costs.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Fees and funding
UK 2026 - 2027 entry The tuition fee for 2026 entry to this postgraduate course is: £8,800 for full time study £4,400 per year for part time study These costs apply to all UK, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man students. Postgraduate loans are available to help you pay for your master’s course. Find out more about funding your postgraduate studies. Funding opportunities International 2026 - 2027 entry The tuition fee for 2026 entry to this postgraduate course is: £11,800 for 1 year of full time study £5,900 per year for part time study These costs apply to all students living outside the UK. Due to immigration laws, if you are an international student on a student visa, you must study full time. For more information about visa requirements and short-term study visas, please visit the International Visa and Immigration pages. Find out more about funding your postgraduate studies. International Fees and Funding Tuition fees UK 2026-27 £8,800 full time International 2026-27 £11,800 full time Alumni Scholarships If you are alumni of York St John University we have scholarships available to help you continue your studies. Scholarships for alumni
Additional costs and financial support Course-related costs While studying for your degree, there may be additional costs related to your course. This may include purchasing personal equipment and stationery, books and optional field trips. Accommodation and living costs View our accommodation pages for detailed information on accommodation and living costs.
About York St. John University
York St. John University
York, United Kingdom
York St John University is a modern, student-focused institution located in the historic city of York, United Kingdom. With origins dating back to 1841, the university has evolved into a vibrant...
University Profile- Application Deadline 2017-10-06
- Start Date 2018-09-01
- Language English
- Duration 12 months
- Credits 60 ECTS / 180 credits (1-year programme)