Blackfriars Private Hall is a Permanent Private Hall of the University of Oxford. It houses three distinct institutions: the Priory of the Holy Spirit, where Robert Gay is the current prior of the friars. Blackfriars Studium, the center of theological studies of the English Province of the Dominican Friars (although its students and lecturers include members of other orders and lay people). And Blackfriars Hall, one of the constituent educational institutions of the University of Oxford.
The name Blackfriars refers to a Dominican Friar’s house in Britain, a reference to their black habit known as the cappa. The current Regent of both the hall and studio is John O’Connor. Blackfriars was founded in 1221 and refounded in 1921.
Blackfriars Hall is a Permanent Private Hall, which means it is owned and managed by an external institution (in this case, the English Province of the Order of Preachers) and not by its fellows.
What is Blackfriars' Affiliation?
Blackfriars is Roman Catholic (Dominican). The Dominican Order of Preachers was founded in Toulouse, France, by the Spanish priest Saint Dominic and approved by Pope Honorius III via the papal bull Religiosam vitam on 22 December 1216. Members of the order generally carry the letters OP after their names, standing for Ordinis Praedicatorum, of “of the Order of Preachers”.
What Degree Subjects Can you Study at Blackfriars?
At Blackfriars, a Permanent Private Hall of the University of Oxford, students can study a range of subjects with a particular emphasis on theology, philosophy, and the humanities. Blackfriars is known for its strong focus on the integration of faith and reason, rooted in the Dominican tradition.
As part of the University of Oxford, students at Blackfriars have access to the university’s broader academic resources, including lectures, libraries, and seminars across various disciplines. The hall provides a unique environment where rigorous academic study is integrated with a vibrant community life.
Degree Programs Offered
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theology, Religion, and Philosophy of Religion: This undergraduate program provides a broad study of theological and philosophical subjects, including ethics, the history of Christianity, and religious studies. It’s designed for students interested in exploring the relationship between faith and reason, religious traditions, and philosophical inquiry.
Bachelor of Philosophy (BPhil) in Philosophy: This is a graduate-level degree that is rigorous and research-focused, offering advanced studies in philosophy. The BPhil is a two-year course that is highly regarded for its depth and breadth in philosophical training.
Master of Studies (MSt) in Theology: This one-year graduate program allows students to specialize in specific areas of theology and religious studies, such as biblical studies, systematic theology, or Christian ethics.
Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Theology: The MPhil is a two-year graduate program that provides an in-depth study of theological subjects and prepares students for doctoral research. It includes coursework and a substantial dissertation component.
Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) in Theology: Blackfriars supports students pursuing doctoral research in theology, particularly in areas that intersect with philosophy and the intellectual traditions of the Church.
Visiting Students Program: Blackfriars also offers a program for visiting students who wish to spend a year or more at Oxford studying a range of humanities subjects. This program is popular among international students who want to experience the academic life at Oxford without committing to a full degree program.
Special Focus Areas
Blackfriars is particularly noted for its emphasis on:
- Catholic Theology: Reflecting its Dominican heritage, the study of Catholic theology is a central part of Blackfriars’ academic offerings, including courses on Thomistic philosophy and theology.
- Ethics and Social Teaching: Blackfriars offers specialized courses in moral philosophy and Catholic social teaching, exploring ethical issues from a theological perspective.
- Philosophy of Religion: A significant part of Blackfriars’ academic focus is on the philosophy of religion, where students engage with deep questions about faith, existence, and the nature of the divine.