Why Pembroke?

• The parallel study of Philosophy and Theology leads to a deeper understanding of each of these subjects. Philosophy develops analytical rigour and logical, reasoned critique, and enables you to apply these skills to many schools of thought and individual thinkers. At the same time, the study of Theology and Religion helps you develop an understanding of the intellectual underpinning of religious traditions, and the social and cultural contexts for religious belief and practice. Questions that overlap the two disciplines include the existence and nature of God and the relevance of religion to human life.
• We have two tutorial fellows in Philosophy; Professor Guy Kahane, whose primary research focus is on theoretical and applied ethics and human morality, and Professor James Read, whose research interests lie primarily in the philosophy of physics, and the foundations of space-time theories. We also have two lead tutors in the study of Theology and Religion; Professor Justin Jones, who is a specialist in modern and contemporary Islam, and the Rev. Dr Andrew Teal, our College Chaplain whose research interests include historical & systematic theology, history of Christianity and the study of religions.
• The interdisciplinarity of the two subjects is reinforced by our strong focus on joint schools at Pembroke, with tutors working closely together to ensure the highest quality of teaching and learning development for joint honours students. As well as multiple tutors in both Philosophy and Theology, both subjects have a large and lively community of scholars and students, helping you benefit from a broad range of philosophical and theological perspectives.
• Both subjects host regular events to bring together their respective communities, including academic seminars, social gatherings and subject dinners. Students also benefit from study skills workshops, including exam timetabling, revision, and dissertation subjects. The aforementioned range of students studying either of these disciplines from a variety of course combinations also makes it easier to meet and socialise with a large number of students of different interests and backgrounds.
• As well as the ability to write essays and conduct research, successful students will have a strong interest in philosophical questions, enthusiasm and open-mindedness. You do not have to have a background in any particular academic subject to apply, and we welcome applicants from all educational backgrounds.

Have you seen our related joint honours courses?

Both of these disciplines can be studied within other course combinations, such as Maths & Philosophy, Philosophy & Modern Languages, PPE (Philosophy, Politics & Economics) Physics & Philosophy, PPL (Psychology, Philosophy & Linguistics), Theology and Religion, Theology and Oriental Studies.