Religion, Culture & Society (RCS) is a subject increasing in popularity both nationally and internationally. This subject is taught within a theoretical and conceptual framework, and will examine the impact religion has on the individual and within a global context.

In light of recent government legislation on Religion & Belief (2003) and Human Rights issues; the importance of raising awareness and an understanding of diversity issues is a central tenet within today’s society from both a macro and a micro position. Religion, Culture and Society is a new and innovative area of research and learning. It is an area that is gaining more importance and interest as society places increased value on individual, local and national identity, social inclusion, equality of opportunity, diversity, citizenship and community cohesion.

The internationalisation of the programme is supported and strengthened not only by the curriculum design and delivery but also with exchange programmes that have been implemented. These exchange programmes will not only give students the opportunity for international study but ultimately develop and build their subject knowledge and communication skills.

Modules offered within the programme ensure that students engage with world issues on an international scale addressing political, social and cultural issues in Europe, but also in countries such as USA, Canada, the Near and Middle East and Australia. RCS investigates the historical and contemporary effect of religion, culture & society on educational, political and social constructs. Therefore, religious and human rights issues form a central part of analysis within the programme and ensure that students are prepared for the international marketplace.

RCS offers students an opportunity to study abroad at one of our partner universities. The exchange network is worldwide and includes countries such as Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Mexico, USA, and most European Countries. Exchange studies range from 3months to one year, and must be taken in your second year at UCLan.

The programme will investigate the historical and contemporary effect of religion, culture & society on educational, political and social constructs. The course will explore conflictual relationships between major faiths, internal divisions within those faiths and the impact modernity and secularisation have had on culture, tradition and society. The course will address contemporary issues which challenge the fundamental principles of belief systems and explore developing theology. The programme provides students with a good understanding of religious culture and traditions from major UK faiths and explores how those faiths interact with each other. Students will also consider the history and evolution of religion in Britain, explore the impact on policy, education, culture, socialisation and the eventuation of contemporary pluralism. The investigation of faith issues such as fundamentalism and the exploration of cultural heritage across several religious/faith systems, together with cross cultural comparison in practices, traditions and beliefs are examined in order to provide students with an informed and thoughtful engagement of current religious/faith based issues.  The programme encourages intellectual flexibility and equips students with an ability to challenge prejudices.  Morality, ethics and philosophy of religion form a major focus in RCS study, students are offered an opportunity to engage with classical and contemporary theologians and philosophers and critically examine some of the fundamental questions posed by religious beliefs. Placement is an optional component of RCS offered to third year undergraduates.

Careers

Graduate RCS students have an opportunity to pursue a variety of academic and professional careers in the private or public sector, including local government, race relations officers, ministry, equality/diversity training officers, social services, social welfare, community development, youth work, research, education and communication support workers, lecturing in further or higher education. There is also an opportunity to progress onto the PGCE Course at Edge Hill University (please see link on right hand menu for full details).

Teaching, Learning and Assessment

RCS modules are taught primarily through a combination of lecture and seminar sessions, with additional workshops and individual tutorial sessions.  Lecturers and/or seminars are interactive and all lecturers are supported by WebCT. Learning is student centred and assessment will be based on coursework, academic essays, individual and group presentations, individual and/or group projects, reviews and ICT interaction (specific modules are delivered via blended learning provision). Formative assessment will be a major focus throughout the programme facilitated through discussions and/or debates, self reflection, peer interactive work, portfolio work, integrated ICT chat/discussion boards and Personal Development Planning (PDP). RCS offers students the opportunity to study abroad from three months to one year during year two of the programme. There will also be opportunities for students to participate in field trips relating to the specifications of individual modules.