Course Catalogue

The Church in Scotland since 1500 TRS4104

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Critical Studies
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
  • Typically Offered: Either Semester 1 or Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

This course will introduce students to the history and theology of the Scottish churches, and in particular the Church of Scotland, from 1500 until the twentieth century, with particular reference to the socio-political and intellectual context of ecclesiastical developments.

Timetable

1x2hr seminar per week over 10 weeks as scheduled on MyCampus.

Requirements of Entry

Available to all students fulfilling requirements for Honours entry into Theology and Religious Studies, and by arrangement to visiting students or students of other Honours programmes who qualify under the University's 25% regulation.

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

The standard assessments for this course are:

■ Essay 2000 words - 45%

■ Essay 1500 words - 35%

■ Presentation of 7 minutes accompanied by a one-page A4 handout - 20%

 

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 essays, but flexible deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustments (students should follow the usual process for extensions)

■ Can be done to course convener/small group or recorded as an alternative to the presentation

 

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

Main Assessment In: April/May

Course Aims

This course will provide the opportunity to:

■ study key events, processes and debates in Early Modern and Modern Scottish Church History;

■ develop a critical analysis of the historical background of the church landscape in Scotland today;

■ gain a deeper understanding of the interactions between church and society in Scotland since 1500.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

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

■ give a broad account of key developments, processes, movements and structures in Scottish Church History from 1500 to the mid-twentieth century;

■ analyse contemporary contexts in church and society in the light of relevant historical events and influences;

■ present complex arguments in written and oral form.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions