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The world’s religions are rich and constantly evolving. In this course we will introduce the stories, rituals, beliefs, and spiritualities that shape diverse traditions including Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam. We will also consider fasc...

The study of religion is a vibrant and challenging field. In this course you will learn to approach religion with an analytical mind by thinking critically and creatively. Religion is more than just matters of belief. In this course we will explore t...

From Gandhi to Starhawk to Martin Luther King, radical leaders have been inspired by their faith to challenge social and ethical norms. In doing so, spiritual leaders, activists, and innovators have sparked controversy and ignited movements, at times...

What is the difference between a “cult” and a “religion”? Are those who join cults brainwashed? This course explores the dynamics behind the formation, operation, and social impact of unconventional religions such as Gloriavale, Twin Flames Universe,...

Religion has forcefully re-emerged as a vital actor in global politics. Focusing on current debates, we examine different religions’ engagements with politics and law, and crucial frameworks for understanding the roles of religion within today’s dyna...

This course provides an introduction to the psychology of religion. Many people identify with religious groups or traditions and claim to have religious or spiritual experiences. This course explores how contemporary psychology research sheds light o...

Meditation and mindfulness have burgeoned in recent times. Promoted by influencers and gurus, via apps and in studios, these ancient practices have been reimagined for contemporary needs and demands. This course provides an expansive introduction to ...

In this course we will explore death and dying across a range of religious traditions, and from various disciplinary perspectives – from religious studies and anthropology to sociology and psychology. We will examine how different religious and cultu...

This course explores the role of religion in promoting conflict and terror, and of the power and potential of religion for transforming conflict and building peace. We consider what historical, theological, symbolic and practical resources religious ...

Proponents of religion argue that it fosters hope and fulfilment, while its detractors assert that it limits true happiness. This course examines how religions cultivate human flourishing. Topics include religious healing traditions, spirituality and...

This course provides an introduction to the psychology of religion. Many people identify with religious groups or traditions and claim to have religious or spiritual experiences. This course explores how contemporary psychology research sheds light o...

Religion is often contentious, yet remains influential in politics, society, and everyday life across the globe. This course focuses on public debates and influential scholarship that is reshaping contemporary research. We cultivate a space for livel...

This is a field-based course. It focuses on development of critical research skills through encounters with diverse religious traditions. Through seminars and field trips we examine the ways local communities practice their faiths today, and we consi...

Belief in gods is contentious yet widespread across cultures and traditions. This course examines diverse conceptions, considering what it means to believe or disbelieve in a god, and what if any effects such beliefs have. We address key arguments, d...

Proponents of religion argue that it fosters hope and fulfilment, while its detractors assert that it limits true happiness. This course examines how religions cultivate human flourishing. Topics include religious healing traditions, spirituality and...

This course is a comprehensive graduate-level introduction to the study of religion, an expansive and dynamic field that examines religion’s entanglements with social, ethical and political dynamics. We consider the theories, debates, and innovations...

A research project, usually in the form of an extended essay of 10,000 words, with regular guidance from a supervisor. Students are expected to show familiarity with the literature in their chosen field, and to write a substantial discussion, engagin...

MA thesis in Religious Studies.

PhD course.

This course explores the purposes and processes of, and debates around, social and cultural theorizing. Students will learn about conceptualization and about scholarly discussion of description, explanation, classification, evaluation in social and c...

This course reviews social and cultural research methods and analytical practices. Social and Cultural Studies staff members will draw on their disciplinary backgrounds to share a variety of methodologies and experiences of working with diverse commu...

Approved and supervised voluntary work placement of the student in a public sector agency, private sector establishment, or non-governmental organisation with a focus on any of research, policy or service provision issues. Please note that this is a ...