Religious studies and theology

Why study with us

Our Centre for the Study of Islam in the UK has grown to become the leading academic institution for research and teaching about Islam and Muslims in Britain, while our Theology programmes draw on internationally-recognised expertise in Christianity from its inception to the contemporary era.

Expert staff

Learn from passionate scholars noted for their research quality and impact.

Our specialism

Our Centre for the Study of Islam in the UK brings together the best scholarship and research in this important and expanding specialist area.

Employability

98% of our graduates were in employment and/or further study, due to start a new job or course, or doing other activities such as travelling, 15 months after the end of their course (HESA data).

Courses

Taught courses

Theology (MTh)

Full time, Part time

Reflect critically on your professional practice in a programme designed to support ministry and other related professional development.

Our videos

Religious studies and theology at Cardiff University

Hear from academics and students about what it is like to study religion with us.

Studying MA Islam in Contemporary Britain has been an amazing and fulfilling experience. I have thoroughly enjoyed learning under the best scholars in British Muslim Studies. The Islam-UK Centre is filled with incredible scholars that I have been able to benefit from both inside and outside the classroom environment. Alongside the fascinating taught component, I have enjoyed engaging in the Centre’s wider life; guest speakers, community projects and a warm social atmosphere has enabled me to interact with the cutting edge of research in British Muslim Studies. I would strongly recommend the MA to anybody interested in British Muslims.

Hamzah Zahid MA Islam in Contemporary Britain

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Theological reflection and practice

Our Theology programmes are specifically designed for the pursuit of a career in research or higher education and/or a role in ordained ministry, chaplaincy and the allied caring and educational professions. For those already in ministry, they allow you to reflect critically on your professional practice. With five pathways available and flexible teaching, you’ll develop your intellectual competence and research skills, deepening your reflective practice and enhancing pastoral capability.

Fostering a better understanding of Islam in wider society

Studying within the flagship Centre for the Study of Islam in the UK, you’ll gain an in-depth understanding of the theoretical and conceptual vocabulary surrounding British Islam. The prestigious Jameel Scholarships were established to enable the very best students to study at Cardiff University – those who have the intellect and determination to apply their knowledge for the benefit of Muslim communities in the UK, and to promote better understanding of Islam in wider society.

PhD progression

Whichever world religion piques your academic interest, our PhD/MPhil in Religious and Theological Studies will help you develop the knowledge and expertise for a successful research career in academia, media, public sector, or a range of allied professions.

Connected to the community

Our home is the John Percival Building, located in the heart of our leafy city-centre campus.

This is where you’ll find our Centre for the Study of Islam in the UK, which we envisage as an accessible, vibrant, and inclusive hub of learning about Islam in Cardiff and South Wales, for Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

It’s here as well that our Religion and Theology academics reside, ideally located next to our Arts and Social Studies library with its extensive collections and archives.

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Funding your studies

Learn more about the scholarships, UK government support packages and student loans available to you.

Browse our accommodation

We have a variety of halls and houses to suit your preferences, interests and budgets.

Living costs

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Next steps

View our religious studies postgraduate taught courses

Explore our courses for 2022 entry.

View our religious studies postgraduate research courses

Explore our courses for 2022 entry.

Contact us

Ask a question via our enquiry form, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

How to apply

Everything you need to know about our application process.

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Source:Higher Education Statistics Agency, latest Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019/20, published by HESA in June 2022.

Contains HESA Data: Copyright Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited 2022. The Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited cannot accept responsibility for any inferences or conclusions derived by third parties from its data.