MA Biblical Studies: The University of Manchester

Course description

The programme aims to provide postgraduates with the opportunity to further their study of the Bible through reading a range of biblical texts in their original languages and through analysing primary sources critically. A particular focus of the programme Is on understanding the texts In their original context. Attention is also given to closely related texts such as the Dead Sea Scrolls and Gnostic literature. Study of Aramaic, Syriac and Ugaritic are regularly available. Students may also take beginner's courses In Greek or Hebrew as part of the MA programme.

Module details

The subject core course unit is typically on Study of the Bible (Hebrew Bible and New Testament) in Context. This is complemented by a School-led core course unit which gives students the opportunity to acquire a variety of research and presentation skills. Course unit options would normally include, for example: Biblical Hebrew Texts, New Testament In the Roman Empire, Dead Sea Scrolls, Jewish Approaches to Jesus and Paul, Gnosticism in Antiquity. After successful completion of the taught course units you will write a dissertation for which you will usually have one-to-one supervision.

Career opportunities

The primary focus of all their postgraduate degrees is to give people research skills, whether for academic work or for another career. Many professions today require investigative skills. Some in the media spend time researching angles of events that relate to religions. Some in the health service investigate the experiences of various cultural groups in accessing services. Many in museums, libraries and other archives require the textual and historical research skills that their courses teach. Postgraduate study in Religions and Theology gives you a high level qualification for a wide range of investigative tasks.

Entry requirements

Academic entry qualification overview: A First Class or Upper Second class honours degree is required, or the overseas equivalent.

English language: If your first language is not English, you need a minimum score of 7.0 on the IELTS test or 600 on the TOEFL paper-based test (250 computer-based), or the Cambridge Advanced Certificate (grades A-C) or the Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (grades A-C).