MA Death Religion and Culture

MA Death, Religion and Culture explores the way in which death is the only inevitability of life. This universal reality is understood differently by different cultures and religious traditions, and those understandings are played out in rituals of death, dying and bereavement.

Entry requirements: Normally a first or second-class Honours degree or professional experience in the area of study

If English is not your first language: IELTS 6.5 (including 6.5 in academic writing) or equivalent

Start dates: September and January

Application process: UKPASS (full-time applicants only) or Direct Entry Application Form (part-time applicants only)

Programme Content

The programme attracts a diverse range of students from funeral directors, clergy from a variety of traditions, teachers and those preparing for a research degree, as well as a range of people who are simply fascinated by the subject.

The study provides a view of historical and current approaches to death and dying, disposal and bereavement rituals, enabling a meeting of professional groups and students with particular interests in this area of speciality.

Learning and Teaching

Students undertake structured discussion and debate through electronic forums and are provided with guided course readings and access to the e-resources held in the library in order to complete assessments. A visit to a local crematoria, cemetery, mortuary and/or funeral home is an essential aspect of the programme.

The programme is taught by a team of highly qualified and enthusiastic staff who include internationally renowned scholars.