Program Overview

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MA in Theology and World Religions

Course Details

Course Code:

DC693

Course Type:

Postgraduate

NFQ Level:

• Please see for further information

Delivery Modes:

• Full-Time
• Part-Time

Duration:

• Full Time - 1 Year, Part Time - 2 Years

Overview

The MA in Theology and World Religions is a programme that approaches theology as a critical, academic study of religion and introduces students to a comprehensive examination of the world’s major traditions.

This programme is situated within a diverse, secular and interdisciplinary university context, emphasising comparative and dialogical approaches.

While the programme provides a solid foundation in the Christian traditions, encompassing both Catholic and Protestant perspectives, it goes further by fostering dialogue with other religious traditions and diverse fields of study. Students engage with Islam, Judaism, Buddhism and more.

The programme includes modules on comparative theology, literature and religion, Christian-Buddhist dialogue and the study of sacred texts across various religious traditions, including the Bible, Qur'an, and the Sutras.

The MA in Theology and World Religions is taught by a faculty with internationally recognised expertise in research and teaching. It is open to students from diverse religious and secular backgrounds, including those with experience in religious and faith communities, humanities backgrounds, and education sectors.

Upon completion of the programme, students will gain significant cultural, political, historical and ethical insights, along with essential skills for critical thinking, interdisciplinary research, and reasoning. This prepares graduates for an increasingly interconnected and globalised world where understanding and dialogue among different religious and cultural traditions are essential.

Careers & Further Options

Careers

The MA in Theology and World Religions programme offers flexibility for students with various career aspirations. Whether you aim to advance to doctoral research, pursue a career rooted in theology or engage in lifelong learning, this course can accommodate your goals.

• Religious Educator: With a deep understanding of theology and world religions, you can pursue a career in religious education, either within academic institutions or faith-based organisations.
• Social Worker: Theological and ethical insights can be valuable in the field of social work, helping you address complex social issues with a strong ethical foundation.
• Charity Officer: With a strong background in ethics and theology, you may find fulfilling roles in charitable organisations, focusing on the ethical aspects of philanthropy and community support.
• Pastoral Worker: If you are interested in providing spiritual guidance and support to individuals and communities, this programme equips you with the knowledge and skills for pastoral roles.
• Clergy Member: For those pursuing a religious vocation, the programme can provide a strong foundation for clergy roles in various religious traditions.
• Chaplain: Theological and interfaith understanding is essential for chaplaincy roles in hospitals, prisons, the military and other settings where spiritual support is needed.

This programme offers a versatile skill set and knowledge base that can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities in fields where theology, ethics, and interfaith dialogue are relevant and impactful.

Entry Requirements

• A degree at the level of an Irish or UK Honours undergraduate degree (H2.2 or above) or equivalent, in the area of Theology, Religious Studies, Religious Education, Philosophy or a related degree in Humanities and Social Sciences.
• Applicants with appropriate combinations of professional qualifications and experience may also be considered. This includes discipline-specific knowledge and know-how; transferable skills; basic research competency; personal effectiveness.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) applicants are required to submit a cover letter along with their application under the Transcripts section of the portal, affirming their intent to apply for RPL. For more information on RPL see here.
• International candidates who are non-native speakers of English must satisfy the University of their competency in the English language.

Programme Structure

This programme offers both full-time and part-time study options to suit your schedule and preferences.

Full-Time Option (One Year):

• As a full-time student, you can complete the programme in one academic year.
• You will take six taught modules throughout the year.
• The programme includes a research module with seminars on research methodologies and a minor thesis.
• You may opt to take an additional language module.
• Classes are typically scheduled in the evening, usually on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Part-Time Option (Two Years):

• The part-time plan follows a similar structure to the full-time programme but is spread over two years.
• You will complete your six taught modules and the research module over this extended period.
• The part-time programme also features evening classes to accommodate working professionals.

Both options provide flexibility to accommodate your schedule and allow you to tailor your studies to your needs. Whether you prefer an intensive one-year programme or a more extended two-year plan, this programme can align with your academic and personal commitments.

Fees and Funding

Fees

• Full time: €7,900 (EU Status Fee), €17,000 (Non EU Fee)
• Part time: €4,300 Per Annum (EU Status Fee Part-time), €8,300 Per Annum (Non EU Fee Part time)

How To Apply

• All Applicants must apply through DCU's Student Application Portal which is available here.
• Provide Academic Transcripts for each and every year of study with English translation, if applicable.
• If applicable, provide evidence of competence in the English language as per DCU entry requirements. Please see link
• Please note if you are a non EU student and require a study visa, you are not eligible to apply for part-time programmes as study visas are only granted for full-time programmes.

Application Deadlines

• Closing date for non EU applicants is 1st July 2025
• Closing date for EU applicants is 30th August 2025

All entry requirements should be met before the commencement of the programme.

Application Queries

• For EU applicant queries, please visit postgraduate-taught-admissions or email
• For non EU applicant queries, please visit postgraduate or email

Commencement of Programme

The programme commences in September 2025