Theology MSt

University of Oxford

MPhil

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Theology is a 21 month degree. It offers extensive study of a particular field of theology at an advanced level, with rigorous training in relevant research methods and a period of scholarly research and writing.

Students on the MPhil in Theology work in one of the following areas:

• Old Testament
• New Testament
• Christian Doctrine, specialising in one of the following sections:
• History of Doctrine: Patristic Theology (c. AD 100-787)
• Issues in Theology with special reference to theology from 1780 to the present day
• Ecclesiastical History (AD 200-600, AD 400-1100, AD 1000-1500, AD 1400-1800, AD 1800-the present)
• Christian Ethics
• Science and Religion

For more information about the content that is covered in each area listed above, visit the course page on the departmental website.

The Faculty of Theology and Religion runs graduate seminars in different subjects, which offer a space for all those doing graduate work to meet regularly and to share aspects of their work with peers. The seminars are an important way of staying in touch with peers and presenting research at various stages of development.

MSt

The Master of Studies (MSt) in Theology is offered in different areas of theology, such as Biblical Interpretation, Science and Religion, Christian Doctrine, Christian Ethics, Ecclesiastical History, New Testament studies and Hebrew Bible studies. Students of Christian Doctrine specialise in one of two areas: early Christian or modern theology. You will be part of an active and vibrant community of graduate students within the Faculty of Theology and Religion.

The degree offers an intensive period of advanced study in a chosen field, with rigorous training in relevant research methods. It offers the opportunity to gain specialist knowledge of distinct topics within the field of study and includes an element of scholarly research and writing which can constitute part of the training for a future research degree.

The course is taught through a combination of core classes or tutorials, and regular meetings with your supervisor, either one-to-one or in a very small group. Attendance at other lectures and seminars may be recommended or required. The topics being studied will normally be covered during the first two terms.

You learn to analyse and evaluate both primary and secondary literature, how to select the most significant materials, and combine them to form a structured argument. You also develop the habits of critical questioning, clear exposition, and objective evaluation.

The number of students studying in each subject area varies between individual disciplines but is usually small, allowing teaching to be tailored to the needs and interests of each student.

Students are encouraged to attend and participate in research seminars in their subject area. There are regular research seminar series in the Old Testament/Hebrew Bible, New Testament, Patristics, Modern Theology, Church History and Christian Ethics. Other research seminars of interest are hosted by other faculties and regular seminars, colloquia, and conferences are organised by the interdisciplinary research centres affiliated to the Faculty.

The choice of essays and dissertation topics is decided by the student, subject to advice from the supervisor, and final approval from the Graduate Studies Committee at the Faculty of Theology and Religion. For those who intend to proceed to the DPhil, the topic of the dissertation normally provides a foundation for doctoral research.