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Pontifical University St Patricks College Maynooth

Theology - Contemporary Ethics

Introduction
This part-time taught Masters programme explores Contemporary Ethics.

Description
In an increasingly globalised world we are confronted with complex questions about identity, human rights, and the role of religion in the pubic sphere. This Masters programme provides a comprehensive analysis of current ethical issues in a dynamic learning environment. It offers students an understanding of the evolving relationship between Church and State within modern societies, and its implications for the content of civil legislation and for the role of Catholic politicians. Students will also explore contemporary trends in globalization, issues in healthcare ethics, social justice and human rights concerns, as well as the ethics of media relations.

Programme of Study
The successful completion of six taught modules delivered over two years and a 15,000 word thesis on an agreed topic.

Content:
• Spirituality, Religion and Contemporary Healthcare Ethics
• Environmental and Social Ethics
• Media Ethics
• Foundations of Moral Theology
• Re-Sourcing: Theology and Renewal in the Twentieth Century
• History of Christian Thought

Entry requirements

The minimum entry requirement is a primary degree in which Theology comprises at least an equal joint component. Candidates should have obtained at least Second Class Honours, Grade I overall, and Second Class Honours, Grade I in Theology. An interview will be part of the selection process.

The Faculty of Theology may also accept applicants whom it deems to have achieved an equivalent standard.

Students whose first language is not English will be required to satisfy the English language requirements.

Duration

2 years part-time
Lectures: One day per week

Careers or further progression

Possible career routes include:
• Lecturing (with additional qualifier courses it would serves as a bridge to doctoral studies in Moral Theology)
• Second Level teaching (following the successful completion of the undergraduate degree in Theology followed by the Professional Master of Education (PME)).
• Journalism.
• Pastoral work, Retreat work, Parish catechesis.
• Public/Private Sectors
• School/ Hospital Chaplaincy (For professional qualifications in chaplaincy additional courses are also a requirement).
• Career working with NGO's and other organisations working in the fields of development and social justice.

Further enquiries

St. Patrick's College
Maynooth
Co. Kildare
W23 TW77
+353 (0)1 708 3600
admissions@spcm.ie

Subjects taught

Course Structure
Programme of Study: The course runs over a two-year cycle and consists of six taught modules delivered over four semesters, three modules per year; and a minor dissertation of 15,000 words. Classes will be held on Wednesdays. Cycle A is the first year of the programme in 2019-2020. Cycle B is the second year of the programme in 2020-2021 for students who began the course in 2019-2020. Cycle B will also be the first year of the programme for new entrants in 2020-2021.

Cycle A 2019-2020
Semester 1
PG 709 Re-Sourcing: Theology and Renewal in the 20th Century
PG 650: Foundations of Moral Theology

Semester 2
PG 651: Environmental and Social Ethics

Cycle B 2020-2021
Semester 1 TBC
PG 302: History of Christian Thought (24 hours)
PG 652: Spirituality, Religion and Contemporary Healthcare Ethics

Semester 2 TBC
PG 653: Media Ethics

Dissertation
Thesis