A new report by the UK’s national body for the humanities and social sciences have released a new report showing a steep decline in student numbers studying Theology and Religious degrees.
The report revealed that there were about 6,500 fewer students on such degree courses in 2017 – 2018 than six years ago, when fees were increased.
The decline has led to the closure or reduction in size of several university theology departments. For instance, the UK’s specialist theological institution, Heythrop College, founded in 1614, closed its doors in 2018 after over 400 years of teaching.
Speaking to Premier, Sir Diarmaid MacCulloch FBA, Professor of the History of the Church at the University of Oxford, said many students are unaware of the transferable skills a theology degree can bring: “I don’t think schools really appreciate what a good move it is to do a degree in theology and religious studies, the outcomes for students in terms of their future careers is extremely good.”
Sir MacCulloch stressed the vital role religious education plays in modern life: “We live in a multicultural, multi-faith society here, and despite all its faults, it’s been a success.
“But it can’t go on being a success, if there are not enough people to appreciate the differences in particular religious cultures.”
The report also highlighted significant gender imbalances between Theology and…
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