Richard Bourne

Professor Richard Bourne is Pro Vice Chancellor: Education at York St John University, leading learning, teaching, and student experience strategies. Previously Head of the School of Humanities, he specializes in theological ethics, political theology, and the ethics of criminal punishment. His research bridges theology and contemporary political theory, addressing themes like urban crime, consumerism, and biopolitics. He is a Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and contributes to national initiatives on equality, diversity, and inclusion. Active in public theology, he serves on the Society for the Study of Christian Ethics committee and is a trustee of York City of Sanctuary.

• Roles: Pro Vice Chancellor Education, Academic Leadership
• Research Themes: Criminal Justice Ethics, Political Theology, Urban Discipleship
• Professional Affiliations: AdvanceHE Strategic Panel, Steering Group for Professional Standards Framework

His publications include A New Introduction to Theology (2020) and articles on mercy in criminal justice and theological critiques of consumerism. He supervises postgraduate research in Christian ethics, political theology, and bioethics.