Theology, Philosophy & Religion (MA by Research)

About the Course

The Masters by Research is a new and exciting programme offered by the School of Postgraduate Theology at Liverpool Hope University.

The programme offers its students the opportunity to research in depth a topic that particularly interests them in the fields of Theology, Philosophy or Religious Studies. Research will be supervised by one of the departmental tutors, and will result in the production of a 30,000-35,000-word dissertation.

Students will be encouraged to examine the effectiveness of academic research methods as aids to study and self-development, as a resource for the advancement of knowledge and understanding generally, and as a means for investigating, generating and implementing creative and independent solutions to problems in the field.

Students will be helped to develop their capacity for advanced and sustained project management skills. These include outlining, defining and planning a research project, establishing and meeting deadlines, recording and reflecting on outcomes and generating sophisticated and robust arguments. Students will be challenged to find their own academically critical voice that will enable them to discuss their chosen topic against the background of contemporary academic debates. At the same time, they will investigate and deploy appropriate methodologies in a sophisticated manner.  

Why choose Liverpool Hope?

The MA by Research at the School of Postgraduate Theology adds value to first degrees by further developing the intellectual, personal and professional capabilities of students. Through their assessed work, successful graduates will have demonstrated complex skills in independent thinking, synthesizing of information, creative problem solving and clear communication both verbally and in written form. Students will be encouraged to situate their work within the social, environmental and global context.

Curriculum Overview

The Masters by Research is comprised of two compulsory modules Advanced Research Skills and the MA Res Dissertation Module adding up to 180 credits. You will be assessed for each component.

Modules

During the programme you will study

Advanced Research Skills (30 credits – compulsory)

This module provides MA by Research students with a practical ‘toolkit’, to enable them to evaluate research critically and to design and conduct independent research of their own. Students will consider the relationship between research problems, questions and design, including questions of ethics, and learn to evaluate different methodological approaches. Students will be introduced to a range of techniques for collecting and analysing data, acquire insight into their strengths and limitations, and gain hands-on experience through supervised completion of practical exercises. The students will develop a coherent research schedule, comprehensive bibliography and dissertation plan

MA by Research Dissertation (150 credits – compulsory)

During the final phase of the MA, students use the skills and knowledge they have developed and draw on their own experience and supporting evidence from specific research articles, to critique, analyse and ultimately influence their research.

During this course, students will also be required to secure the appropriate ethical approval from the University for their Dissertation.

Entry Requirements

A minimum of a Second-Class Honours degree in a relevant discipline awarded by a UK university, or an equivalent higher education qualification.

International Entry Requirements

For students whose first language is not English there is a language requirement of IELTS 6.0 overall with 5.5 minimum of all components. In addition to this also we accept a wide range of International Qualifications, for more information please visit our English Language Requirements page.

For additional information about country specific entry requirements visit the your country pages. 

Due consideration will be given to applications from outside the UK with the possibility of Distance Learning.

*Part time study is not available for Non-EU International applicants

Teaching and Research

The School of Postgraduate Theology is led by well-respected theological and philosophical academics with internationally recognised research profiles in the fields of Pastoral Theology, Christian Education, Asian and African Christianity and 100% of the School’s research has been deemed as internationally recognised by the 2014 Research Excellence Framework.

As the only interdisciplinary department in Europe built upon an ecumenical foundation, the School works closely with both the Roman Catholic Archdiocese and the Anglican Diocese of Liverpool, as well as with faith communities throughout the world.

Those undertaking the MA (Res) will have the benefit of belonging to an international community of postgraduate students at both masters and doctoral levels. They will also have access to the university’s excellent library holdings in the fields of theology, philosophy and religious studies.

Teaching in the School is in line with the wider University Learning and Teaching strategy and encourages learning in small groups to foster the development of academic potential and improve the working dynamic between students and members of staff. All taught classes are held at Liverpool Hope University’s main campus, Hope Park.

The campus is situated just four miles from the city centre and offers superb academic and support facilities, including on-campus library with extended opening hours, free computer and Wi-Fi access, access to the on campus gym and sports centre and a careers service for advice on part-time work opportunities and post-study careers.

UK/Channel Island Tuition Fees

2025/26

Tuition fees for Home students are £7,750

Funding

We offer a number of scholarships and loans to help fund your postgraduate studies. Visit our scholarships pages for more details.

EU/Non EU International Tuition Fees

2025/26

Tuition fees for EU/Non-EU International students for 2025/26 are £15,250

Please be aware that the UK’s departure from the EU may affect your tuition fees. Learn more about your fee status and which tuition fees are relevant to you.

Careers

The MA (Res) opens up a rich variety of career opportunities, as it requires students to develop a varied skills base that can be applied to a broad range of organizational settings. Graduates of the MA by Research will have the scope to venture into a number of exciting career paths, such as education, law, media, public administration, social, pastoral and community work.

The MA by Research may also be considered by applicants who would like to develop their independent research skills and who may wish to progress onto PhD study.