M.A. in Religion and Education Mater Dei Institute of Education

Specialise in one of three streams

• Digital Learning
• Mentoring and Leadership
• Religious Education

Introduction

• Are you interested in religious education in post-primary schools?
• Would you like time to consider the issues facing religion and education in contemporary Ireland?
• Do you want to develop new resources and approaches to your teaching of religion?
• Have you wondered how to best approach religious education in a multi-cultural and multi-faith classroom?

As a graduate programme, participants will develop research skills in specific topics in religion and education. Upon successful completion of this programme the graduate will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of current issues in Religion and Education
• Demonstrate a capacity for in-depth research in specific topics of RE
• Develop complex analytical and interpretative skills in the spheres of Religion and Education
• Assume responsibility for work within professional and pastoral contexts, with individuals and groups
• Investigate and reflect on educational, religious and theological values and thereby contribute effectively to change in society.

Programme Content

This programme of studies is primarily aimed at those interested in the teaching of religious education in second-level schools. It is of particular relevance to those interested in:

• Contemporary theory and practice of religious education
• Using digital technology in the RE classroom
• Developing new resources and approaches to the teaching of religion
• Faith development in the school
• Developing professional expertise in the area of religion and education

It should be noted that the programme does not lead to a teaching qualification in Religious Education.

Topics

Students are required to take six taught modules. The programme offers the opportunity to explore some of the following topics:

• The Diverse Classroom
• Contemporary leadership in an Evolving School Culture
• International Trends in Religious Education - Research, Practice
• Resourcing RE in a Digital Age
• Ethics and the Teaching Profession
• Designing and Resourcing Junior and Senior Cycle RE
• Contemporary Issues in Education and Religious Education
• Spirituality, Adolescence and Faith Development
• Virtual Learning Environments
• Religion and Belief in a Secular Age
• Faith and Culture
• Christology in Dialogue with other Religions
• Gospel and Gospels
• Sacramental Theology
• The Holocaust and Modern Culture

In addition they must complete a Research Module, which includes a minor thesis.

Awards

Successful completion of the programme leads to the award Master of Arts in Religion and Education. It is also possible to exit with a Graduate Diploma in Religion and Education or a Graduate Certificate in Religion and Education. It is also possible to audit individual modules without obtaining an award.

Entry Requirements

• The normal requirement for admission to the M.A. in Religion & Education is a 2.2 primary degree or equivalent.
• Theology or Religious Education or Religious Studies must be a major element of the primary degree.
• Applicants must hold a professional teaching qualification or have equivalent teaching experience.
• Students who do not meet the normal criteria may be considered for a place on the programme on the basis of their work experience and other relevant educational achievements.
• Applicants seeking Accreditation of Prior (Certified) Learning (APL) for the purposes of entry, module exemptions, or advanced entry, or applicants seeking Accreditation of Prior Experiental Learning (APEL) for the purposes of entry or module exemptions will also be considered.

Cost & Fees

The part-time fee for the academic year 2014/15 (Year 1) is €3,348 and will increase modestly in the subsequent year. Non-EU fees are double the EU fees. At the time of writing, current economic climate permitting, both the full-time and the part-time programmes are recognized for income-tax relief. The full-time programme qualifies for the Higher Education Grants Scheme under the usual conditions of eligibility.