Global Religions and Politics

Why study Global Religions at Lancaster?
- Discover a new take on studying religion that includes world, political and social perspectives

- Join a pioneering department - the first Religious Studies department in the UK and the first to include world religions, we continue to innovate with fresh new takes on the study of religion

- Gain an in-depth understanding of how religious practices, values and identities influence political issues and thought in a globalised world

- Tailor your degree from a diverse module section with an international outlook: spanning Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam and more, and politics from around the globe

- Attain a sophisticated, interdisciplinary understanding of global issues by studying in a department which combines politics, philosophy and religion – the only one of its kind in the UK

- Benefit from the opportunity to gain practical experience on an impressive internship with our in-house Richardson Institute for Peace Studies

- Use your critical thinking skills and global perspective to pursue an exciting career in diplomacy, politics and education

From the politics of gender in Islam to kingship, power and the Goddess in India. Explore the fascinating ways in which religion and politics intersect to shape our world, under the guidance of our expert researchers. Use your in-depth knowledge of global religions and politics to access a meaningful and fulfilling career.

Understand the values and debates driving the future of our world
You’ll explore major political issues through knowledge of demographically significant religions: such as decolonisation, gender and intersectionality.

You will have flexibility to build your studies from modules aligned with your passions. From gender to development, from Latin America to the Middle East, and from Buddhism to Christianity. Our experts cover a diverse range of research specialisms, and will support you to develop your understanding in a very wide range of areas of religion and politics.

And because you’ll study in a department which crosses the boundaries of politics, philosophy and religion, you’ll benefit from teaching which draws together expertise from across these fields. Our teaching is founded on a clear view of the connections between these disciplines, so you will develop an integrated perspective on global issues: such as the reformulations of Shari’a in contemporary Islam, and the spread of religious messages in South and South East Asia.

Gaining the tools for success
In your final year, you can choose to research and write a dissertation. You’ll receive guidance from expert tutors at every step of the way, from selecting your research topic to submitting your completed project. You may wish to pursue a topic which brings together your knowledge of religion and politics.

You will also have the opportunity to apply for an internship with the Richardson Institute for Peace Studies, based in our department. This could see you participate in a research project with an NGO, a faith-based organisation, or a think tank. An ideal way to build up your experience and your CV.