Course Catalogue

Religion and Spirituality in Scotland TRS1027

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Critical Studies
  • Credits: 15
  • Level: Level 1 (SCQF level 7)
  • Typically Offered: Summer
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

This course will critically explore the rich religious traditions and spirituality of Scotland as evidenced from prehistoric archaeology, the sacred sites and art of Celtic Scotland, the rich monastic and spiritual legacies of medieval Catholicism, Scotland's rigorous and socially transformative Reformation, Scottish expressions of the world's great religions, and the internationally recognised influences of the Iona and Findhorn Communities. While the religious expressions have changed, spirituality has played a prominent part in making Scotland and shaping its people. Even as Scotland experiences the wider forces of secularlisation, the religious diversity of Scotland continues to increase.

Timetable

6 x 2.5hr sessions per week over 3 teaching weeks.

Requirements of Entry

None

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

The standard assessments for this course are:

■ Essay (3,500 words): 100%

 

If required, for instance where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, the following alternatives are available:

■ There is no alternative to the essay, but flexible deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustments (students should follow the usual process for extensions)

 

Further reasonable adjustments may be provided where necessary. Students are encouraged to consult with the course convenor.

Main Assessment In: August

Course Aims

The course will provide the opportunity to:

■ examine the beliefs and practices of Scotland's inhabitants from pre-history to the present; 

■ critically assess some of the historical and cultural influences on religion and spirituality in Scotland;

■ identify the ongoing development of these traditions and compare them with modern interpretations.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ describe and analyse some of the main features of Scotland's historical traditions of religion and spirituality; 

■ evidence an appreciation of Scotland's diverse traditions and their distinct contributions to Scottish culture;

■ discuss some of the historical and contemporary challenges that have shaped Scottish spirituality and religious traditions;

■ articulate some of the particularly Scottish expressions of global religious traditions.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions