PhD Religious Studies at University of Aberdeen

Programme overview

Religious studies focuses on explaining the origin and function of religion and not on evaluating the truth of the beliefs of religion.

Department: School of Divinity, History, Philosophy and Art History | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Research themes include Theories of Religion, Theories of Myth, and Theories of Ritual, Gnosticism - Ancient and Modern and Ancient Greek Religion and the Near East.

Career pathways

There are many opportunities at the University of Aberdeen to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry 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.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27). Full-time Home/RUK research rate (set by UKRI); part-time is 50% of the full-time rate. Source

International applicants: GBP 21,700 a year (2026/27). Full-time international rate for research degrees admitted 2026/27; part-time is 50% of the full-time rate. Source

Apply through the official page: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/apply/

Explore more study programmes

Health Sciences