MA Canon Law

What does the programme cover?

The MA seeks to make the Canon Law accessible to the non-specialist as well as to one who has some knowledge of the law.

The module Introduction to Canon Law looks at where canon law came from and the influences on its development, the theology underpinning it, the influence of the Second Vatican Council, the structure of the Code, and the general norms of interpretation.

Marriage in Canon Law explores the meaning of marriage as a partnership of the whole life, and investigates consent, nullity, the effects of prenuptial agreements on these concepts, and the difference between dissolution of marriage in the Roman Catholic Church and a civil divorce. The topics covered are relevant to those preparing themselves to work in marriage tribunals, those who provide marriage preparation courses, pastoral assistants and catechists. 

The course Obligations and Rights in the Church looks at the rights of all Christ’s faithful, clergy and lay people.  In particular it looks at issues arising in relation to clergy such as wrongful accusation, financial security, political activity, and ongoing formation. The rights of lay people, more wide-ranging than may be realised, are also discussed and illustrated by looking at case studies on current topics such as parish mergers, access to the sacraments, formation and education.

The final taught module of the MA, Sacramental Law, discusses the canons relating to the sacraments and their celebration, and examines issues such as preparation for, and the age of reception of, the sacraments of initiation, clerical formation and ordination, and issues arising from the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Anointing. 

The final dissertation is an opportunity for self-directed work, with guidance from a supervisor, on a topic of your choice approved by the supervisor.