About Us
The Faculty of Theology and Religion at the University of Oxford is a leading centre for the study of Christianity and for the critical, historical, and comparative study of religions across cultures and contexts. Religion is a huge subject which has inspired work in many other academic disciplines, and our work brings together the best of the humanities and the interpretive social sciences, integrating theological reflection, philosophical analysis, and the academic study of religion with contemporary critical analysis and innovative methodologies. Through this work, we explore the texts, histories, ethics, politics, and patterns of belief and practice that shape religions in all their depth and diversity.
Oxford offers a unique setting for the study and teaching of theology and religion. Students benefit from the personalised tutorial system, the academic excellence of the faculty, unparalleled library and archival holdings, a strong interdisciplinary environment, a vibrant collegial culture, and an active network of globally connected centres, institutes, and programmes based in and around the university. This setting builds on the long history of connection between the faculty and a wide range of religious communities, institutions, and organisations, while also fostering sustained collaboration with partners across diverse global contexts.
Housed in the state-of-the-art Schwarzman Centre and spanning Oxford’s many colleges and private halls, the Faculty brings together more than 120 members with expertise in Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, and other world religions, as well as in comparative, interdisciplinary and cross-cultural approaches to the study of religion.
The study of theology and religion has been integral to the University since its origins in the twelfth century. Today as ever, theological inquiry and the academic study of religions flourish together alongside the humanities and social sciences, addressing enduring questions of meaning and purpose while examining how religious traditions shape—and are shaped by—the pressing challenges of our time. Whether investigating the moral and social dimensions of artificial intelligence or studying sacred texts in their original languages, we seek to cultivate understanding and engagement marked by intellectual rigour, compassion, and wisdom.
Our students—undergraduate and postgraduate alike—come from diverse backgrounds around the world and bring a wealth of perspectives and experiences. Graduates go on to careers in academia, government, the charity sector, religious leadership, law, education, and the arts.
We invite you to explore our courses, connect with our scholars, and consider how you might collaborate with us or support our work. Through research, teaching, and public engagement, our aim is not only to deepen understanding of religion in its many forms and expressions, but also to prepare future leaders equipped with insight and vision to contribute thoughtfully and constructively to public life in an increasingly complex world.
