Department of Theology and Religion
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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.
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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.
Theology and Religion: What is it like?
Find out more about studying Theology and Religion at Durham University.
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World-leading status affirmed in QS World University Rankings 2025
Durham is now ranked joint 89th in the world top 100 universities. We are also ranked 19th in the category of Sustainability, and 65th in the Employer Reputation category.
Carlo Acutis: what the first ‘millennial saint’ says about the Catholic church’s future
With Pope Francis reportedly clearing the way for Carlo Acutis to become the Catholic church's first millennial saint, Dr Liam Temple from our Department of Theology and Religion looks at what the significance of bestowing such an honour will mean for the church's future.
What's new?
Durham Professors elected to prestigious British Academy
Congratulations to Canon Professor Michael Snape and Professor Janet Montgomery who have been recognised for their contribution to the humanities and social sciences.
![Canon Professor Michael Snape (left) and Professor Janet Montgomery (right)](/media/durham-university/central-news-and-events-images/news/British-Academy-Fellowship-web.png)
Transformative Humanities framework launched
Landmark Syriac Studies conference brings international research excellence to UK
Vatican ceremony honour for Durham theologian
Durham University theologian seconded to process that will shape future of Catholic Church
Transformative Humanities framework launched
Durham University's Transformative Humanities launched yesterday and gathered more than 130 researchers, colleagues, students, and partners from across the region and beyond to celebrate this new interdisciplinary framework.
![Transformative Humanities launch news banner](/media/durham-university/departments-/faculty-of-arts-and-humanities/Digital_Banner-(1).png)
Carlo Acutis: what the first ‘millennial saint’ says about the Catholic church’s future
Why the Catholic Church should listen more to victims and survivors of abuse
Durham Professors elected to prestigious British Academy
Congratulations to Canon Professor Michael Snape and Professor Janet Montgomery who have been recognised for their contribution to the humanities and social sciences.
![Canon Professor Michael Snape (left) and Professor Janet Montgomery (right)](/media/durham-university/central-news-and-events-images/news/British-Academy-Fellowship-web.png)
Durham research has a lasting global impact
Vatican ceremony honour for Durham theologian
Landmark Syriac Studies conference brings international research excellence to UK
A landmark conference about Syriac Studies brought more than 70 researchers from 20 countries to Durham last month. The event was a hub for academic collaboration and knowledge sharing. It was also a formative experience for early-career scholars. Here, the organisers reflect on the key highlights of the conference and why there has recently been a major revival of academic interest in Syriac Studies.
![A group photo taken at the Syriac Studies in the UK conference](/media/durham-university/11a-wide-group-photo.jpeg)
The diversity of the university experience helps students become good citizens
Britain’s new Faith Museum is the ideal place to set aside your preconceptions about religion
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.
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)
What’s it like studying Theology and Religion?
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Find out more about our department, courses and support.
Department of Theology and Religion
Durham University
Abbey House
Palace Green
Durham
DH1 3RS
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Check out our list of FAQs or submit an enquiry form.