It is part of a decision to axe 48 degrees. “Theology is central to growth of the human psyche, culture, and our general moral awareness”, says a petition against the cut.

Faith and academic leaders issue a letter expressing concern over the issue. "In an increasingly polarised world, theology helps us to understand other points of view”, they say.

“This is a milestone in the history of Spanish universities”, says the coordinator of the degree in Religious Studies at the Complutense University of Madrid.