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Welcome to the Department of Theology and Religion at Durham

Our Durham Department of Theology and Religion is one of the largest in the UK, a diverse intellectual community of 50 academics, over 150 postgraduate students, and more than 70 undergraduates in each year.  We use a variety of perspectives and methods to explore the ways that human beings have had, and continue to have, fundamental beliefs or worldviews concerning the world and our role within it. In our Department all beliefs and worldviews are taken seriously, respected, and studied, across the range of religious and non-religious perspectives.

We consistently rank among the very top Departments of Theology and Religion in the UK, and in the world.  Our range of degree programmes enables students to explore their interests in the fields of theology, philosophy, religious studies, biblical studies, and ethics.  Taught by researchers at the cutting-edge of their disciplines, our alumni are heavily in demand in a very wide range of jobs and professions.

Meet our staff
4th in the UK for Research Power REF 2021
7th
7th in QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024
6th
6th Complete University Guide 2024
4th for Religious Studies and Theology in the Guardian University Guide 2024
A rosary with a cross hanging with light in the background.

New MA in Catholic Theology (Distance Learning)

This is an exciting new programme which is led by Durham University's Centre for Catholic Studies and the Department of Theology and Religion.

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Theology and Religion: What is it like?

Find out more about studying Theology and Religion at Durham University.

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Study with us

With 32 academic staff, some 150 postgraduates and an annual undergraduate intake of 71 makes us one of the most varied and dynamic departments in the UK. Together, we form a lively and welcoming community to those of all faiths and to those of none.

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QS World University Rankings 2024

World-leading status affirmed in QS World University Rankings 2024

Durham is now ranked 78th in the world top 100 universities. We are also ranked joint 30th in a new category of Sustainability, and 50th in the Employer Reputation category.

Learn more about the QS World University Rankings

What's new?

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Durham University theologian seconded to process that will shape future of Catholic Church

A leading Durham University theologian is to help shape the Catholic Church for years to come.
Professor Anna Rowlands

Science-faith project launches global partnerships

We’re establishing a global community of partners to explore the different national and cultural contexts that church leaders work in.
Split image of a stained glass window to the left, and a galaxy to the right

Understanding moral injury in war veterans

On 11 November, millions of people in the UK and beyond remember the service and sacrifice of our Armed Forces on what is known as Remembrance Day.
A group of soldiers dressed in camouflage clothing.

Vatican ceremony honour for Durham theologian

One of our leading theologians has been honoured in a ceremony at the Vatican.
Professor Anna Rowlands receives her Expanded Reason award at the Vatican

Durham University theologian seconded to process that will shape future of Catholic Church

A leading Durham University theologian is to help shape the Catholic Church for years to come.
Professor Anna Rowlands

Britain’s new Faith Museum is the ideal place to set aside your preconceptions about religion

Professor Alec Ryrie from our Department of Theology and Religion visits the new Faith Museum in Bishop Auckland and explains how it provides a rare opportunity to set aside preconceptions about religion and faith.
Church window

Henry VIII’s favourite fool – a new book draws a portrait of the man the Tudor court loved to laugh at

Professor Alec Ryrie from our Department of Theology and Religion explores a new book written by Swedish historian Peter Andersson on the life of court fool Will Somers during the reign of Henry VIII.
Henry VIII

Our location

We are located in the beautiful city of Durham with its home in Abbey House, right next to Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO world Heritage site.

A beautiful and immensely exciting place to study and to research Theology and Religion.
Our Facilities
Autumn leaves outside Abbey House in Durham

Student updates

Hear from our students in the Department of Theology and Religion.

Highlights

What’s it like studying Theology and Religion? (BA Religion, Society and Culture edition)

Religion, Society and Culture student Sophie explains what the course is like, why she chose it, and what she loves about Durham.
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What’s it like studying Theology and Religion?

Would you like to study Theology and Religion? Find out about Dylan's experience.
View over Palace Green and Abbey House

Get in touch

Find out more about our department, courses and support.

Department of Theology and Religion

Durham University
Abbey House
Palace Green
Durham
DH1 3RS

Questions about studying here?

Check out our list of FAQs or submit an enquiry form.

Your Durham prospectus

Order your personalised prospectus and College guide here.