Postgraduate Education

 PhD (University of Liverpool)

Thesis: Towards a Latter-day Saint theology of religions and the resultant implications for inter-faith dialogue

This thesis utilises Christian systematic theology to provide a framework within which to build a Latter-day Saint theology of religions. The work is distinctly Mormon and explores classical and constructive elements of LDS theology, but a background of expertise in Christian systematics was essential for the construction of the work. The final part of the thesis develops a theological framework within which inter-faith engagement can take place. The thesis is unique, but the particular elements of a Mormon Pneumatology and a framework for inter-faith engagement are major original contributions in the field.

2005 MEd (Religious Education) (University of Birmingham)

Thesis: The place of New Religious Movements in the Secondary RE Classroom

This thesis built on a variety of the taught modules about the teaching of religious education in school. The initial work defines what is meant by a New Religious Movement and then utilises fieldwork to assess the various arguments for and against the inclusion of NRMs in the Secondary RE classroom. Concluding that it is possible, the thesis then provides two case studies of how this can be achieved, with attendant resources designed. The two NRMs used as case studies are The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Taught modules included: Principles and Practice of RE, Teaching Hinduism, Teaching Christianity, Spirituality, Research Methods

2000 MA Military Studies (University of Liverpool)

Thesis: An examination of the doctrine of Just War in its historical context

This thesis traced the development of the doctrine of Just War beginning with New Testament writings, then moving on to Ambrose, Augustine, Aquinas and de Vitoria. It is argued that the developments that can be found in each of the writers were related to the historical context in which they found themselves. This process began with Ambrose, was systematised by Augustine, restated by Aquinas and reinterpreted by de Vitoria. The conclusion argues that against such a background of development it may be possible (and perhaps is necessary) to develop the doctrine in light of twentieth century warfare and political conditions.

Taught modules included: The First World War, The Second World War, The nature of warfare, Philosophy of war, The American Civil War, War in Literature

1997 PGCE (Secondary) Manchester Metropolitan University

Undergraduate Education

1996 BA Honours (Combined Subjects)  (University of Liverpool) Theology and History 2:1

Dissertation: A critical comparative analysis of the concept of Godhead in Roman Catholic and Mormon thought