Program Overview

Contextual Theologies and Interfaith Relations (M.Phil. / P.Grad.Dip.)

The M.Phil. in Contextual Theologies and Interfaith Relations is an interdisciplinary course that explores the inherent contextuality and pluralism of theological reflection, and especially their implications for inter- and intra-faith relations. ‘Faith’ here is understood broadly, drawing from a wide range of religions and spiritualities, some traditional and institutionally structured, others more experimental and experiential.

Overview

• The course is designed for those wanting to explore theological issues through the lens of inter- and intra-faith relations.
• Students attend to the practical and theoretical possibilities of engaging — in depth and in context — with the challenging theological praxis of justice, peace, and the integrity of creation.
• By offering a wide range of critically reflective faith perspectives from the Americas, Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, this Masters programme blends together the themes of liberation theologies, with those of ecumenical and interfaith dialogue.

Course Structure

• Students must take six taught modules (6 x 10 ECTS), comprising one core module (Research and Methods) and five elective modules, and write a dissertation (30 ECTS).
• The course includes fieldwork visits to different places of worship in Dublin, a research trip to Belfast, and to the World Council of Churches in Geneva.

Course Content

• Modules include:
  • Research and Methods in Contextual Theologies and Interfaith Relations
  • Religions, Politics and Ethics in a Pluralist World
  • Reimagining Ecumenical Theology: Dialogue and Difference
  • Nature, Grace and Place: Theology, Maps and Territories
  • Liberationist and Interreligious Theologies
  • Issues in Buddhist-Christian Dialogue
  • Muslim God, Christian God: Islam and Muslim-Christian Comparative Theology
  • Engaging Religious Fundamentalism
  • Religions, Conflict and Peace in International Relations
  • Northern Ireland: Religion, Conflict and the Politics of Peace

Career Opportunities

• Graduates of this course can go on to further education and academic research.
• Graduates will learn research skills, as well as analytic, written, and verbal communication skills that are highly valued and effective in a great variety of careers.

Admission Requirements

• Applicants should normally have an Honours degree at second-class level, or GPA 3.2 (or above).
• Students not meeting these criteria may be considered at the discretion of the Dean of Graduate Studies under exceptional circumstances.
• All applicants to Trinity are required to provide official evidence of proficiency in the English language.
• Applicants to this course are required to meet Band B (Standard Entry) English language requirements.

Course Fees

• For a full list of postgraduate fees, please refer to the relevant section of the university's website.

Awards

• NFQ Level 9

Next Intake

• September 2025

Course Coordinator

• Professor Gillian Wylie

Closing Date

• 31st July 2025

Study Context

• This video is an introduction to the postgraduate programmes in the disciplines of Religion and Peace Studies offered in the School of Religion at Trinity College Dublin.

Related Courses

• Christian Theology (M.Phil. / P.Grad.Dip.)
• Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation (M.Phil. / P.Grad.Dip.)
• Divinity (B.D.)
• International Peace Studies (M.Phil.(Peace Studies) / P.Grad.Dip.)
• Race, Ethnicity, Conflict (M.Phil.)
• Master in Theology

Testimonial

• Studying Religion at Trinity has provided opportunities to understand Irish history that I'm confident I could not get elsewhere. The teachers and staff in my programme share their expertise and passion, which makes for an inspiring environment. Being at Trinity has nourished my love of learning, and I am making lasting connections to help me in my future.
• Fiona Raleigh, Graduate

Course Details

• The M.Phil. in Contextual Theologies and Interfaith Relations is a 1-year full-time or 2-year part-time course.
• The course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of inter- and intra-faith relations, and to equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration with people from diverse religious backgrounds.