Course Catalogue

TRS: Religion, Culture, and Controversy TRS2021

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Critical Studies
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 2 (SCQF level 8)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 1
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

Religion, Culture, and Controversy provides students with an overview of methodologies for the study of religion (historical, anthropological, literary, etc.) through the exploration of contemporary issues, controversial topics, and themes in popular culture.

Timetable

4 x one hour sessions per week (lecture/seminar varied) on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 3pm over 10 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus.

Requirements of Entry

A grade D3 or above in any Level 1 TRS option or at the discretion of the Head of Theology and Religious studies.

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

N/A

Assessment

The standard assessments for this course are:

■ Examination (90 minute duration) - 50%

■ Essay (1,500 words) - 40%

■ Portfolio of 5 response papers of 200 words each - 10%

 

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 examination, but extra time can be offered as reasonable adjustments (students should follow the usual process for extensions)

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

■ There is no alternative to the portfolio, 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: December

Course Aims

This course will provide the opportunity to: 

■ introduce students to the major approaches to the study of religion;

■ introduce students to some of the controversies concerning religion and contemporary culture;

■ develop students' understanding of interdisciplinary approaches to the study of religion;

■ nurture the ability to ask independent questions and to experiment with original responses.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

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

■ identify and evaluate major methodological approaches to the study of religion ;

■ apply at least one of these approaches in an analysis of a religious text, practice, or controversy

■ engage in interdisciplinary inquiry in relation to religion and culture.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions