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Postgraduate Study

The course aims:

  • to provide teaching and learning to postgraduate students in the theologies, scriptures, histories and philosophies, doctrines and practices of Christianity; and, as far as resources permit, of Judaism, Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism, principally within their own traditions but also by means of comparative approaches;
  • to provide high calibre students with an excellent education in these traditions which is informed by current developments in scholarship and research;
  • to provide a stimulating environment in which students can reach their intellectual potential;
  • to provide an integrated structure of learning and teaching;
  • to help students develop a wide range of intellectual abilities and skills which will enable them to make a significant contribution in their chosen careers and walks of life, including training in academic research.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the Advanced Diploma students should have:

  • made the transition from another discipline, usually in the humanities, and acquired a grounding in the key concepts and methods in the subject;
  • acquired advanced understanding in up to four sub-disciplines of the subject;
  • acquired detailed knowledge of a specific topic, either in a chosen sub-discipline, or of an interdisciplinary character, and of basic principles of scholarly research, through the writing of a dissertation; and
  • had the opportunity to acquire a basic or advanced proficiency in a scriptural language of a major religious tradition and in the interpretation of scriptural texts.

Continuing

Those who wish to continue to the MPhil degree must achieve at least 67 per cent in the examinations. Each application is considered on its own merit


Open Days

The University hosts and attends fairs and events throughout the year, in the UK and across the world. We also offer online events to help you explore your options:

  • Discover Cambridge: Master’s and PhD study webinars - these Spring events provide practical information about applying for postgraduate study.

  • Postgraduate Virtual Open Days - taking place in November each year, the Open Days focus on subject and course information.

For more information about upcoming events visit our events pages.

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Key Information


9 months full-time

Study Mode : Taught

Advanced Diploma

Faculty of Divinity

Course - related enquiries

Application - related enquiries

Course on Department Website

Dates and deadlines:

Michaelmas 2026

Applications open
Sept. 3, 2025
Application deadline
May 14, 2026
Course Starts
Oct. 1, 2026

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Course Funding Deadline
Dec. 2, 2025
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 15, 2025

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas , Lent and Easter .


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