Theology, Religion, and Philosophy of Religion

"Theology, Religion, and Philosophy of Religion is a wide-ranging arts degree, allowing you to study history, philosophy, literature, language and, of course, biblical narrative."

Worldwide, six out of seven people describe themselves as religious, with religious beliefs driving social and political change globally. Theology, Religion, and Philosophy of Religion at Cambridge addresses fundamental questions through a range of religious traditions and philosophical standpoints and allows students to explore contemporary and historic thought, culture and texts through philosophy, ethics, history, literature, languages, social sciences and classics.

In year one students study five papers introducing them to the core subjects: theology, religion and the philosophy of religion. Students complete two compulsory papers (one scriptural language and one paper on either the Old Testament or New Testament), alongside three optional papers.

In Part IIA students take four papers to build on their knowledge and skills acquired in first year. Students also have the opportunity to do an additional scriptural language paper.

In final year, students choose an additional four papers and are given the opportunity to produce a dissertation on their choice of topic.

Further information can be found on the Faculty and University websites. 

Typical offers require

• A Level: A*AA
• IB: 42 points, with 776 in Higher Level
• Advanced Highers: A1, A2, A2

For other qualifications see the main entrance requirements pages on the University website. 

Subject Requirements

A-level

Required: None

Highly recommended: Religious Studies, Philosophy and other academic essay-based subjects.

IB

Required: None

Highly recommended: Higher Level Philosophy and other academic essay-based subjects, Standard Level World Religions.

Mature students and those taking other qualifications are encouraged to contact our Admissions Office (at admissions@lucy.cam.ac.uk) to discuss the entry requirements for their qualifications.

Written work

Applicants are required to submit two pieces of written work.

Assessments

Applicants are not required to sit an assessment for this course.

Interviews

Interviews allow us to distinguish amongst excellent applicants by assessing the skills and aptitudes essential for successful study in higher education, and your academic qualities – essentially, how do you think?

For 2024 entry, interviews for all applicants to Lucy Cavendish will take place virtually. The aims and content will still be the same as in-person interviews. You can read more about Lucy Cavendish's online interviews here and you can read the University's information on interviews here.

Each candidate typically has two interviews, lasting between twenty and thirty minutes. In some cases, you will be given preparatory material beforehand.

In a few subjects, you will be interviewed by more than one College or in the Faculty. You will be notified of this in your interview invitation.

Supracurricular exploration is an important way to expand your knowledge of your subject, explore your interests and develop your skills. Our new webpage contains guidance on supracurricular exploration and a comprehensive source of resources, grouped according to undergraduate degrees at Cambridge. 

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Attend an open day or event

Our Events and Open Days page advertises regular events held by Lucy Cavendish College. If you can, join us for a College Open Day to discuss your application with a member of our admissions team.