Theories of Religion, Theories of Myth, and Theories of Ritual
Explore Theories of Religion, Theories of Myth, and Theories of Ritual
Religious Studies
Introduction
Religious studies focuses on explaining the origin and function of religion and not on evaluating the truth of the beliefs of religion.
Study Information
At a Glance
- Degree Qualification
- PhD
It is a distinct area of study from Divinity, and considers practices as much as beliefs, Western and Eastern religions as well as ancient and modern ones.
September and January start dates available
Our Research
Students who decide to study a topic related to religion, myth, or ritual are supervised by experts in the field of Religious Studies. Whether you are interested in theories of religion, Gnosticism, ancient Greek religions, or the social scientific study of religion, Aberdeen offers the opportunity to make use of our exceptional resources as you work on your thesis.
Research Interests
Gnosticism - Ancient and Modern
Gnosticism taken as an ancient, long dead religion and in Gnosticism as also a modern, even perennial, world view.
Gnosticism - Ancient and ModernAncient Greek Religion and the Near East
Supervision can be offered in any aspect of Ancient Greek Religion, in particular, from a cultural or historical perspective. The current research interest of the supervisor is Greek and the Near East.
Supervisor: Dr Samantha Newington
Ancient Greek Religion and the Near EastAberdeen Global Scholarship
Eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Research Masters' students starting in September 2025 will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Explore this Global Scholarship, including eligibility details, on our dedicated page.
Aberdeen Global ScholarshipEntry Requirements
Normally, the minimum entrance requirement for admission to the PhD is a degree with Second Class Honours (Upper Division) in an appropriate field, or equivalent. It is preferable that you hold a Masters in the chosen area of study as well.
Alongside your application form, you will need to upload the following supporting documents online:
- Copies of your undergraduate and graduate degree certificates
- Academic transcripts for your undergraduate and graduate degrees.
- Two academic references; either the details of your referees provided on your application form or uploaded online with your application.
- Your research proposal
- If English is not your first language and you have not studied previously at an institution in the UK, you will need to demonstrate your proficiency in English by taking an IELTS, TOEFL or PTE academic test.
International Applicants
Fees and Funding
Scholarships
Eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Research Masters' students starting in September 2025 will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Explore this Global Scholarship, including eligibility details, on our dedicated page.
To see our full range of scholarships, visit our Funding Database.
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Contact Details
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School of Divinity, History, Philosophy and Art History
University of Aberdeen
50-52 College Bounds
Aberdeen
AB24 3DS