Great Britain is a historically Christian country with a long history. Theology here was initially interpreted as the study of dogmas, rules, the history of the Christian religion, in the early era - Catholicism. In the 16th century, the Protestant branch of Christian teaching became the main one in the country.
The history of universities in Britain teaching Christian theology and theology begins at the beginning of the 2nd millennium AD. Some of the oldest universities in England and the world - Oxford (from the 11th century) and Cambridge (from the 13th century) - trained scientists-theologians, were created precisely for this.
As the British Empire grew, it conquered new colonies, the ethnic composition of the nation changed, and many adherents of other religions appeared in the state. The situation changed especially strongly with the development of British democracy in the late XX - early XXI century. With the changes in the country, the approach to teaching theology also changed: gradually, other world religions, for example, Islam, began to be studied in the departments of theology. However, in the UK, more than 50% of believers are still Protestants, so all students of theological colleges in British universities study Christianity as a scientific discipline.
Oxford University was the first to deviate from this rule, which in 2021 canceled the compulsory study of the basics of Christianity for students of theological departments. Teaching theological disciplines in Britain combines a long tradition with an accurate analysis of the current situation.
Not only future religious leaders study at the theological faculties. Politicians, public figures, and artists also receive theological education. There are some students who need the study of religious thought for personal growth. All this was taken into account when drawing up various training programs: among them - philosophy and religious studies, art in theology and religious studies.
We present a ranking of the best British universities in theology and religious studies to help you choose a university to study abroad.
Best theology and religious studies universities in Britain 2026 | Complete University Guide
| Rank | Institution | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cambridge | ||
| 2 | Aberdeen | ||
| 3 | Oxford | ||
| 4 | Durham | ||
| 5 | Edinburgh | ||
| 6 | Bristol | ||
| 7 | Exeter | ||
| 8 | Birmingham | ||
| 9 | St Andrews | ||
| 10 | Leeds | ||
| 11 | Nottingham | ||
| 12 | Manchester | ||
| 13 | Glasgow | ||
| 14 | King's College London | ||
| 15 | Cardiff | ||
| 16 | Chester | ||
| 17 | Kent | ||
| 18 | Lancaster | ||
| 19 | St Mary's, Twickenham | ||
| 20 | Winchester | ||
| 21 | Roehampton | ||
| 22 | Liverpool Hope | ||
| 23 | Canterbury Christ Church | ||
| 24 | York St John | ||
| 25 | Birmingham Newman | ||
| 26 | Gloucestershire | ||
