History of Church and Theology Radboud University

Overview

In this  History of Church and Theology specialisation, you study the historical developments of Christian traditions and discipline, so as to understand Christian belief in contemporary society better.

History is not a fixed entity. Re-examining long-existing sources could lead to new insights on the course of events. Students are made to understand what we now consider an axiom was not always so and students are given the tools to discover axioms of the past so they can better understand sources of the past. Students will learn to make sound and historical analyses by taking familiar sources but asking new questions, by finding and analysing long forgotten sources and by re-examining sources but taking into account the cultural context of the time it was produced. Their analyses could give new light on historical events that in turn could give us new insights on current societal and cultural issues.

In a globalising world, more and more institutions require skills in theological communication and hermeneutics. Church historians have in-depth knowledge of Canon Law and the history of Christian beliefs and doctrines. They can analyse historical developments and are able distinguish when people use historic events to suit their purpose and contradict them when necessary. In addition, the programme teaches you how to think independently and critically about the way Church History and Canon Law can give meaning to contemporary issues.

Future career opportunities

The Master’s programme in Theology strongly enhances career prospects by allowing students to focus on one professional path in their third year: research, education, spiritual care or religion and policy.

The academic research profile (English) provides students with an extensive background in academic research within the field of church history. You are qualified to continue with a doctoral programme at various universities in the European Union or in other parts of the world. Radboud University ’s Special Faculty of Theology has some vacancies for junior researchers. You can also make private arrangements with one of the chairs of the faculty or its affiliated organisations to study as an external doctoral candidate.

Students who obtained a Master of Arts degree in Theology at Radboud University are employed in various leadership positions in dioceses, religious congregations, universities and colleges.

Besides the above-mentioned professions, graduates of the Master’s specialisation in Church History can also choose careers as journalists, museum curators, librarians and archivists.

Possible occupations

• researcher
• policy advisor
• teacher
• spiritual care
• journalist
• museum curator
• archivist
• librarian