Module manager: Olivia Porter
Email: O.C.Porter@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
THEO1900 Introduction to South Asian Religions
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module introduces some of the key religious traditions that originated in the Indian subcontinent, for example, Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, and/or Jain traditions. By studying these religions in their historical and contemporary form, and through their texts and traditions, the module enhances your understanding of the contested nature of ‘religion’ and the challenges of studying religion. Please note this is an optional module and runs subject to enrolments. If a low number of students choose this module, then the module may not run and you may be asked to choose another module.
This module will introduce a selection of traditions and texts from the key religions that originated in the Indian subcontinent. These may include Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, and/or Jain traditions. It will also introduce some key issues in the study of religions more broadly, such as the relationships between religions, the roles of texts in religions, and the development of religious traditions over time.
The module will be taught by means of lectures and seminars, which complement students’ own private study. Lectures introduce the religious traditions being studied, situating them in historical and contemporary contexts. The seminars involve interactive discussion of issues raised in lectures and in set study material, which will include textual and other media sources.
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Identify key features of the texts and traditions in two or more of the religions studied.
2. Accurately describe and explain, with reference to religions that originated in India, key issues in the study of religions, such as the relationships between religions, the roles of texts in religions, and the development of religious traditions over time.
3. Compare different understandings of a key text or concept.
4. Formulate a coherent argument in response to set questions about religious texts or traditions.
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
5. Communicate understanding and ideas clearly and concisely, using appropriate academic language. (Academic and Work Ready skill)
6. Critically analyse source material and demonstrate independence of thought. (Academic and Work Ready skill)
7. Use appropriate material to support knowledge and analysis of topics. (Academic, Work Ready, Digital and Sustainability skill)
8. Employ standards of academic integrity, including when and how to appropriately acknowledge someone else’s work. (Academic and Work Ready skill)
Religions studied in the module will include one or more of the Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, and/or Jain traditions. With reference to each religion studied, topics may include key concepts, doctrines, and texts; origins and historical development; contemporary features; ethical teachings; religious practices. Overarching themes may include the relationships between religions and issues that arise when studying religions originating in the Indian subcontinent.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 10 | 1 | 10 |
| Seminar | 5 | 1 | 5 |
| Private study hours | 85 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 15 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 100 | ||
Students submit a written answer to a set question; students have the choice of receiving written or verbal feedback on their answer.
Students’ progress is also monitored by their contributions to seminar discussions.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Essay | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Resits will take the same format as the original assessment. Students will select different questions from the list.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team