Bible and Theology

UCAS code: BTH1

Here's what University of Wales Trinity Saint David says about its Bible and Theology course.

The Bible and Theology degree at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David gives you the opportunity to explore the religious beliefs and traditions that have shaped both Judaism and Christianity. You will examine the spiritual and written traditions of these two faiths, learning about their rich histories and how their sacred texts have developed over time. By studying these texts, you will gain a deep understanding of the inner logic and meaning behind these major world religions.

The course also looks closely at how religious identity and traditions influence the way people view the world. You will explore various denominations within Christianity and how their religious practices differ. Through your studies, you will engage with how both Judaism and Christianity fit into modern social, political, and spiritual debates. By the end of the degree, you will have a greater understanding of the impact of religion on modern life, especially in today’s world where religion and society often overlap in key issues.

Throughout the programme, you will learn how to approach theology from a critical and analytical perspective. You will be introduced to different methodological and analytical frameworks, helping you to engage with the texts and ideas in a structured way. By studying a variety of biblical texts, you will become part of academic discussions on themes that arise from contemporary theology. This will include how theology and ethics are intertwined, and how religious thought can influence important ethical debates.

The course also provides the chance to study under lecturers who are active researchers in the field of religion and theology. Their interests will help shape your learning and challenge you to think independently. You will be encouraged to reflect on your studies, develop your own ideas, and become a creative and independent thinker.

By the time you complete the degree, you will have gained not only a deep knowledge of religion and culture, but also important skills that can be applied in many careers. Whether you are interested in religious leadership, academia or roles where critical thinking and an understanding of religious influence on ethics are important, this degree will prepare you for a wide range of opportunities.

Our Bible and Theology degree focuses on critical thinking, independent learning, and engagement with diverse perspectives. We offer a supportive environment that encourages you to explore key themes in religion and theology, using a variety of analytical frameworks to approach sacred texts, religious practices, and contemporary debates.

In your first year, you will be introduced to the spiritual and written traditions of Judaism and Christianity, learning about their histories and sacred texts. You’ll explore how these religious beliefs shape identities and religious practices. Core modules will also introduce basic methodological frameworks for studying the Bible and theology, setting the foundation for deeper analysis in later years.

Compulsory

Academic Skills (20 credits) Introduction to the Study of Religion Introduction to Christian Ethics Introduction to Theology Introduction to the New Testament Introduction to the Hebrew Bible

Your second year builds on your foundational knowledge by diving deeper into specific denominations and religious identities within Christianity and Judaism. You will critically examine key texts and engage with contemporary theology and the impact of religion on modern life. This year also encourages deeper reflection on theology and ethics, focusing on their relevance to religion and society.

Optional

Confessing with Saint Augustine: God and Religion in the Twilight of the Roman Empire (20 credits) Celtic Sanctity and Spirituality: Hagiography and Saints' Cults (20 credits) God and the World: The Cosmos in Religious & Ethical Perspective The Ethics of Violence Theology and Interreligious Encounter The Letters of Paul Interpreting the Hebrew Bible from Contemporary Perspectives Jews, Christians and Romans: From Maccabees to Masada (20 credits) Modern Christian Theology (20 credits) The Meaning of Life (20 credits) Sex, Sexuality, and Gender Travelling with Luke: A Journey through Luke-Acts

In the final year, you will develop advanced analytical skills, engaging with current debates on the role of religious beliefs in social, political, and spiritual contexts. You will explore complex themes in theology through a critical lens and complete a research project, where you can specialise in areas of particular interest, preparing you for future study or careers.

Compulsory Dissertation (40 credits)

Optional

Jesus through Faith and Culture (20 credits) Jews, Christians and Romans: From Maccabees to Masada (20 credits) Modern Christian Theology (20 credits) Celtic Sanctity and Spirituality: Hagiography and Saints' Cults (20 credits) God and the World: The Cosmos in Religious & Ethical Perspective The Ethics of Violence Theology and Interreligious Encounter Confessing with Saint Augustine: God and Religion in the Twilight of the Roman Empire (20 credits) The Letters of Paul Interpreting the Hebrew Bible from Contemporary Perspectives The Meaning of Life (20 credits)

Prospective students should be aware of the following:

Not all optional modules are offered every year Optional modules are delivered subject to sufficient student numbers Language modules are optional/compulsory/core according to linguistic ability There are many Level 5 and Level 6 versions of the same module. Students can only take this module once; this depends on which year the modules are offered in.

Assessment will primarily be via coursework assignments.