Course Catalogue

History of Christianity in Africa TRS5091

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Critical Studies
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
  • Typically Offered: Either Semester 1 or Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

This masters course will explore the theology and history of African Christianity, placing some of the key distinctive developments in the theology and practice of the churches in socio-political, cultural and intellectual context. It will also explore a range of different historiographical approaches to and assessments traditional denominations and African Initiated Churches.

Timetable

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

Requires Videoconferencing facilities

Requirements of Entry

Standard entry to Masters at College level

Excluded Courses

N/A

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

The standard assessments for this course are:

■ One mid-term essay - 1000 words - 20%

■ One end of term essay - 4000 words - 80%

 

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 an extension to the deadline can be offered as reasonable adjustment (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.

Course Aims

This course will provide the opportunity to:

■ explore developments in Christian theology and church history on the African continent;

■ engage critically with primary sources which offer evidence of this development and the cultural underpinnings;

■ deepen understanding of the political, religious, and cultural context of sub-Saharan Africa and the impact of colonialism on religious developments;

■ foster awareness of a range of historiographical interpretations of the Christianity in Africa.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

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

■ present a well-informed account of the development of Christianity in Africa and the underlying factors that have led to distinctive and culturally relevant expressions;

■ offer a critical analysis of a range of primary texts and rituals;

■ compare and contrast different interpretative perspectives;

■ present complex arguments in written and oral form.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions