Theology and Religious Studies

Being of a religious persuasion is not a prerequisite for these courses; in fact, this area attracts just as many non-believers as devotees. A theology or religious studies course won’t focus on Islamic prayers or Christian baptisms. You study the theory, contexts and debates concerning the different religions and the effects religious belief has on the world; an enthralling and extremely valid topic in today’s world.

Theology courses aren’t necessarily linked to any particular faith or creed. Some do focus on Christian thinking, while others examine the differences and commonalities of all religions. Studying this at third level is often undertaken in an effort to expand knowledge rather than as a career move; however the research skills honed and developed throughout the course are extremely useful in a variety of careers…

Education
Students interested in theology and religious studies have a number of options. Degree courses include Theology, Biblical and Theological Studies and Jewish Studies, as well as courses that combine Theology or Religious Studies with subjects including Education, Philosophy, Psychology, English Literature, Irish Studies, Arts, Music, Pastoral Care, Cultural Studies, History and Archaeology. The CAO points required range from approximately 300 to 400.

Typical topics in the theology or religious section of your degree might include Biblical Studies, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Atheism, Ecumenism, World Religions and Ethics, while specialisations in further years can include courses such as Advanced Hebrew, Celtic Christianity, The Literary Legacy of Paul of Tarsus, Church, State, Morality & Law in Ireland, and The Reformation in Europe & Ireland.

Students with an interest in theology or religious studies might also consider a course in History, Cultural Studies, Philosophy, Sociology or Social Studies.

Options after Qualification
There is no set path for theology or religious studies graduates. Some people move into socially inclined careers, such as community development, social work or counselling. However, the critical and communication skills developed during a course can be useful in areas as diverse as computing, publishing, banking, archaeology and law.

A high proportion of theology graduates go on to become teachers of religion at secondary school level. Some religious studies courses qualify students to teach religion directly (such as Mater Dei’s Bachelor of Religious Education). Graduates of other courses take a yearlong Higher Diploma in Education to gain the necessary teaching skills.

Theology is a relatively academic subject, and students often go on to study at postgraduate level, conducting research into a broad range of subjects and topics.

The Work
As there is such a wide range of career options for theology graduates, there is no end to the kinds of tasks and duties a person could perform on a day-to-day basis.

Personal Qualities & Potential Work Environment
Those with an interest in religious issues, history and cultural are often suited to theology
and religious studies. An inquiring and analytical mind will also aid in the study, and a love of discussing and writing about theoretical issues would be another useful attribute.

It is difficult to predict the work environment for graduates in this area, although as it is an academic subject, it is fair to say that people are more likely to end up in a library, classroom or office environment.

The Money
It is difficult to predict the earning potential of graduates of theology or religious studies, as they can move into so many different careers. As an example, the salary scales for secondary school teachers starts from about €29,000 a year, rising to €56,000 at the top of their field.

Jargon
Existentialism: A philosophical viewpoint that emphasizes human freedom and abilities.  Therefore, subjectivity and individual choice are elevated often above conceptual and moral absolutes
Apophatic: A term used to refer to a particular style of theology, which stressed that God cannot be known in terms of human categories
Ethics: The branch of philosophy that attempts to determine what is right and what is wrong
The Torah: The laws of Judaism that are found in the first five books of the Old Testament
Humanism: A philosophy that rejects religious beliefs and centres on humans and their values and capacities

Job Titles
Theologian
Religion Teacher
Social Worker

Further Resources
The Irish Theological Association
Web: www.theology.ie

Milltown Institute
Ranelagh
Dublin 6
Tel: 01 277 6300
Web: www.milltown-institute.ie
Email: info@milltown-institute.ie

School of Religions & Theology
Room 5010 Arts Building
Trinity College
Dublin 2
Tel: 01 896 1297
Web: www.tcd.ie/Religions_Theology
Email: jwelch@tcd.ie

All Hallows College
Grace Park Road
Drumcondra
Dublin 9
Phone: 01 852 0718
Web: www.allhallows.ie