The John Rylands University Library houses many collections of world importance. There is a substantial collection of papyri, including the oldest manuscript fragment of a New Testament book, and a large archive of original documents written by John Wesley.
Resources & Facilities
Our most distinctive research resource is the John Rylands University Library. As well as an excellent general collection of books on Religions and Theology and related areas, the library houses many collections of world importance. There is a substantial collection of papyri, including the oldest manuscript fragment of a New Testament book. There are also several major archives, above all the Methodist archive, which includes a large number of original documents written by John Wesley. Students are encouraged to engage with the library's archives.
For PhD students, there is unlimited scope for work on these resources. Manchester offers a wide range of other courses that you would be able to take alongside Religions and Theology ones. For research studies the lecturers on these are available to give specialist support. Within the School of Arts, Histories and Cultures, there is a full selection of courses in History, Classics, Archaeology, Art History, English Literature, Music and Drama. Among these are specific courses in paleography, epigraphy and papyrology.
Beyond our School, students can also draw on courses in, for example, Middle Eastern Studies, Women's Studies and the Social Sciences. Instruction is also available in a wide range of languages. Whatever you are interested in learning at Undergraduate or MA level, or in researching at MPhil, professional doctorate or PhD level, Manchester will be able to provide this in a well-rounded and thorough way.
Student feedback
"The Library had every book you needed and there was lots of space to work." Laura Beeley, 2nd year
"The Library resources are extensive and easy to use." Hannah Atkinson, 3rd year