Course Overview

Research proposals are welcomed in the Department, and we particularly welcome proposals reflecting the current focus of each branch of the Department or the special interest of any members of our staff. 

In Religion our primary focus on religion and spirituality in the contemporary world means we are ideally positioned to contribute to topics of growing concern within the academic discipline of Religious Studies, including the often unexpected changes and developments taking place in connection with religion, spirituality, philosophy, and social and cultural change. We particularly welcome interest in Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, and Japanese religions; the social and cultural transformations of contemporary religion and spirituality; sociology of religion; religion and popular culture; modern religious thought and history; new religious movements; women and religion; and methodological issues in the study of religion.

Each discipline has a strong approach to supporting students, whether through reading groups, research methods study classes, opportunities to present and review research projects or links with external presenters. There is good support from the library and a vigorous seminar programme. We enjoy good working relationships with related departments and centres, and joint supervision arrangements are possible.