Theology & Religious Studies/Theatre Studies

Theology and religious studies alongside theatre studies is a combination that brings two disciplines together around a shared interest in performance, narrative, community and the making of meaning. Theatre has always had deep connections with religion: from the ancient Greek drama festivals held in honour of Dionysus to medieval mystery plays and contemporary performance that engages with spiritual, ethical and existential questions. Studying both disciplines reveals these connections and develops skills that are relevant wherever communication, interpretation and the staging of human experience matter.

At the University of Glasgow, this four-year full-time degree includes a year abroad, giving you the experience of studying both subjects in an international context.

In the theology and religious studies strand, you will engage with the history and diversity of religious traditions, the Bible and its interpretations, Christian theology, the philosophy of religion and the political and cultural dimensions of religious life, approaching religion as a serious human phenomenon rather than a matter of private belief alone. The theatre studies component develops your skills in dramatic analysis, theatre history, performance practice and the critical frameworks used to understand how theatrical meanings are made. Together, the disciplines develop your ability to interpret complex texts and performances, to understand how communities construct shared meanings, and to engage with the existential questions that both theatre and religion address.

A typical entry tariff of around 168 points is expected.

Graduates pursue careers in education, arts and cultural organisations, religious institutions, journalism, the civil service, community work and academic research. The combination of theological and performance knowledge is valued in chaplaincy, community arts, theatre and the broad range of careers that draw on the ability to understand and work with people's deepest commitments and meanings. Many graduates proceed to postgraduate study in theology, religious studies, drama or performance, or to teacher training.