The Dharmanath Scholarship in Jain Studies MA by Research in Theology and Religion

Level of study

Postgraduate research masters

Subject area

Theology and Religion

Nationality

EU, Overseas (Non-EU), UK

Type of Award

University

Deadline for applying

Closes 30/04/2025

Award Description

The “Global Philosophy of Religion: Fundamental Spiritual Reality, Human Purpose, and Living Well” (GPR-2) project is a major international initiative funded by the John Templeton Foundation to make the philosophy of religion a truly global field. The project will enhance and promote cutting-edge research on central issues in the philosophy of religion by creating opportunities for researchers and students representing regions of the world and religious and wisdom traditions that are currently underrepresented in Anglo-American philosophy of religion.

In 2022 The University of Birmingham launched a world-leading teaching and research programme in Jainism, made possible by generous supporters from the global Jain community.

Jainism is an ancient religion originating from India, emphasising non-violence, self-control, compassion and non-possessiveness. The Jain principle of non-violence or 'ahimsa' profoundly influenced India's vegetarianism, movements of passive resistance and, more recently, environmental engagement.

Named after an apostle of unconditional nonviolence, the Dharmanath Network in Jain Studies is developing teaching and research in relation to contemporary issues, such as environmental protection, human rights and interfaith dialogue.

As part of these exciting initiatives, we are offering scholarships to support two exceptional candidates to undertake a Master by Research Degree in Theology and Religion in the School of Philosophy, Theology and Religion at the University of Birmingham, with a dissertation on Jainism. 

The MA by Research in Theology and Religion is a full-time fixed-term appointment for 12 months for either campus or distance learning researchers. Students on this course will usually have an option to progress onto a second year. However, the Dharmanath MA by Research in Jain Studies Scholarship is available in year one only.

You will investigate central topics in Jainism, which can range from any study area, from philosophy and philosophy of religion to textual and cultural studies that have a philosophical impact.

Value of Award

Successful students will be awarded up to 100% of their tuition fees (one scholarship is available to at a home fees rate and one is available at an overseas fees rate). Please visit our website for fees and course details for September 2025 entry.

The Dharmanath MA by Research in Jain Studies Scholarship is generously supported by Drs. Jasvant N. Modi and Meera Modi and family, and by the William Paton Trust, which is managed by the University of Birmingham.

Eligibility Criteria

• You have applied for the full time, 12 month MA by Research in Theology and Religion (on campus or by distance learning) at the University of Birmingham and you intend to write an MA thesis on Jainism that is relevant to the theme of GPR-2. 
• You commit to  taking part in engagement activities related to  the Dharmanath Network in Jain Studies and GPR-2. For example funder meetings and public lectures and related activities.
• Self-funded: You must be self-funding and have sufficient funds to cover the full cost of living at the University of Birmingham, plus any visa/travel expenses associated with studying in the UK.

Please visit the Global Philosophy of Religion Project website for more information on GPR-2 and our research topics. 

Find out more about the Dharmanath Jain Studies Network at the University of Birmingham. 

How to Apply

You need to complete and submit an application to our full time MA by Research in Theology and Religion. 

• A CV that includes the applicant’s academic record
• A personal statement

Please email your completed application to gpr@contacts.bham.ac.uk with the following subject heading: “Jain Studies MA by Research Scholarship [YOUR NAME]”.

We will assess each application according to the following selection criteria:

• The quality of the application, including the personal statement
• The applicant’s academic record as an undergraduate student

Further Information

For your application to be considered we need to have received a complete application, i.e.  a CV that includes the applicant’s academic record and a personal statement by the deadline. 

Your application will then be processed as follows: 

• Graded and ranked by School Panels

We will let you know as soon as possible the outcome of your application - usually within the period from early May to the end of June.  

Contact

Global Philosophy of Religion team
gpr@contacts.bham.ac.uk