Theology, Religion & Philosophy of Religion
Theology, Religion, and Philosophy of Religion at Cambridge addresses fundamental questions through a range of religious traditions and philosophical standpoints.
Explore contemporary and historic thought, culture and texts through philosophy, ethics, history, literature, languages, social sciences and classics.
- UCAS Code: V600
- Campus Code: 4
- Duration: 3 years
- Places per year: 1-2
Entry requirements
Minimum offer level
A-Level:Â A*AA
IB Diploma: 42 points, with 776 at Higher Level
Please also read our Entry Requirements page.
Subject requirements
While we don’t ask for any specific subjects to apply to Theology, we’d recommend any of these subjects for a strong application:
- Religious Studies
- English (language or literature)
- History
- Languages (ancient or modern)
- An essay-based subject
General comments
An A Level in Religious Studies can be helpful but is certainly not required. A successful applicant will be able to make creative connections between questions explored in many disciplines – the social sciences, physics and biology, music, history, the study of language and literature, etc. – and the study of theology and religion.
Students reading for a degree in Theology, Religion, and Philosophy of Religion have a great variety of beliefs and convictions and alongside students thinking critically from within one of the world’s faith traditions there are students approaching their study as atheists and agnostics.
Why Trinity Hall?
Trinity Hall’s origins in theology continue to shape a thoughtful and distinctive environment for your studies here. Founded in 1350 by Bishop William Bateman, the College was established to train clergy in canon law. Our history includes figures such as Stephen Gardiner, a leading Reformation bishop, David Sheppard, who became Bishop of Liverpool after an international cricket career, and the writer and broadcaster Sir Mark Tully. Former Deans include Robert Runcie (Archbishop of Canterbury), Launcelot Fleming (Bishop of Norwich), Professor John Polkinghorne, and Professor Keith Ward.
You’ll be supported by an experienced Director of Studies whose work in Christian theology and ethics draws on over two decades in the Faculty of Divinity. The College welcomes students of all backgrounds and beliefs, and is a short walk from the Faculty and the University Library. The F D Maurice Society offers a relaxed space for discussion, and recent graduates have gone on to careers in law, teaching, the charity sector and further study.
Our academics
Director of Studies
TRPR at Cambridge
Admissions process
Written work
Two school essays, preferably related to Religious Studies or another humanities subject. You do not have to send this work before applying, we will write to you after you have applied and let you know exactly what you need to send and when.
Admissions assessment
We do not require a written assessment for this course.
Interviews
Two interviews of around 25 minutes each. You will be asked a range of questions, which may arise from your personal statement, from your submitted work, or from your current studies. We will also want to see how you answer unexpected questions, e.g. by asking you to talk about an unseen quotation or picture. What we are looking for, in addition to proven academic aptitude and potential for development, is deep curiosity about theology and religion.
