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Unit information: The History of Christianity: Core Texts in 2022/23

Please note: you are viewing unit and programme information for a past academic year. Please see the current academic year for up to date information.

Unit name The History of Christianity: Core Texts
Unit code THRSM0001
Credit points 20
Level of study M/7
Teaching block(s) Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12)
Unit director Dr. Balserak
Open unit status Not open
Units you must take before you take this one (pre-requisite units)

None

Units you must take alongside this one (co-requisite units)

None

Units you may not take alongside this one

n/a

School/department Department of Religion and Theology
Faculty Faculty of Arts

Unit Information

This unit aims to introduce students to particular texts which will deepen ones understanding of Christian history and biblical reception. The unit requires the study of several different primary sources which highlights the way the bible has been used throughout history. The breadth of material covered provides a chronological consideration of biblical reception, and allows for an analysis of significant primary texts. Upon this foundation of key biblical sources and a familiarity with key theological sources, the unit prepares students to undertake further and more profound research in optional units on offer in Teaching Block 2.

Your learning on this unit

By the end of this unit, the student will have:

  • acquire knowledge and skill to discuss some of the major texts associated with the Judeo-Christian tradition.
  • acquire knowledge and skill to discuss the academic study of the Bible.
  • acquire knowledge and skill to discuss the academic study of Christian theology.
  • acquire knowledge and skill to discuss the historical development of Christian theology from the early days of the Christian church to the present.
  • acquire knowledge and skill to discuss the influence that the Bible and Christian theology have had upon culture.

How you will learn

Classes will involve a combination of long- and short-form lectures, class discussion, investigative activities, and practical activities. Students will be expected to engage with readings and participate on a weekly basis. This will be further supported with drop-in sessions and self-directed exercises with tutor and peer feedback.

How you will be assessed

This Unit will be assessed by ONE essay of 5,000 words which must be chosen from one of those listed above, and it is recommended that students should consult the relevant member of staff to discuss their essays well in advance of the deadline. For guidance on essay writing and for deadlines for all assessment, see the Graduate School website.

Resources

If this unit has a Resource List, you will normally find a link to it in the Blackboard area for the unit. Sometimes there will be a separate link for each weekly topic.

If you are unable to access a list through Blackboard, you can also find it via the Resource Lists homepage. Search for the list by the unit name or code (e.g. THRSM0001).

How much time the unit requires
Each credit equates to 10 hours of total student input. For example a 20 credit unit will take you 200 hours of study to complete. Your total learning time is made up of contact time, directed learning tasks, independent learning and assessment activity.

See the Faculty workload statement relating to this unit for more information.

Assessment
The Board of Examiners will consider all cases where students have failed or not completed the assessments required for credit. The Board considers each student's outcomes across all the units which contribute to each year's programme of study. If you have self-certificated your absence from an assessment, you will normally be required to complete it the next time it runs (this is usually in the next assessment period).
The Board of Examiners will take into account any extenuating circumstances and operates within the Regulations and Code of Practice for Taught Programmes.

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