Postgraduate Research Guide

The University emphasises the Catholic intellectual tradition through the twin roles of faith and reason. This tradition values the whole person and promotes the “examined life” as a means to an ethical and informed way of living. Students develop critical thinking skills, the capacity to engage critically with the views of others and to defend a reasoned point of view as they develop their own views on ethical issues and on the force and reliability of claims to truth and knowledge. Students have access to experienced supervisors and support by other staff within the School who are invested in academic achievement. HIGHER DEGREES BY RESEARCH: › Master of Theology › Master of Philosophy › Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) RESEARCH FOCUS The School of Philosophy & Theology has a diverse range of research interests comprising many branches of philosophy and aspects of Catholic theology. In Fremantle, the School focuses on research within the fields of pastoral theology, phenomenological theology and ethics. In Sydney, the research focus is primarily directed towards the relationship between faith, culture and reason, as well as the philosophy of religion, moral philosophy and theology, ethics and values education, ancient and medieval philosophy and metaphysics. SCHOOL OF PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY A NEW STUDY ON THE SYMBOLISM OF AN ANCIENT GARDEN While early research into the symbolism of the Garden of Eden produced strong evidence of peoples’ relationship with God, current interpretations suggest that it now largely reflects the concerns of society. In a study titled ‘The Garden of Eden through the Lens of New Testament Faith: Creation, Revelation and Redemption in Symbol, Narrative and Motif’, Notre Dame PhD candidate, James Cregan, aims to provide an articulate and comprehensive theology of the Garden of Eden that can be used as a resource for open dialogue about its symbolic relevance to today’s interpretation of the Christian faith. “In essence, the nature and portrayal of the Garden of Eden has changed over time. I hope that this research can somehow contribute to a better understanding of Edenic imagery and how it informs our conception of the Kingdom of God,” said James. Postgraduate degrees by coursework are offered in Liberal Arts, Philosophy and Theology. See the Postgraduate Coursework Guide for details. The School of Philosophy & Theology plays an integral role in the exploration and realisation of the University’s Objects offering research programs for those with an interest in these disciplines and for students who wish to pursue academic careers or careers in the Church, schools or other organisations. 45