Theology and Religious Studies

Overview

Globalization has brought about a pluralization of the religious sphere, bringing other ‘world’ religions, such as Islam and different Asian traditions, to the West. The religious other is no longer an abstract figure but is seen in all her concreteness as neighbor, colleague, friend, spouse, etc.

We offer the Theology and Religious Studies MA programme at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. To increase social cohesion in society as a whole and more specifically in schools, (socio-political) organizations and companies, we need experts with the knowledge and skills to build bridges between people from different (faith) traditions. The growth of religious and interreligious literacy is necessary to foster interreligious relations.

Through classes, reading assignments, visits to local communities, and an analysis of case studies, students will be prepared to effectively become interreligious bridge-builders in an increasingly multi-religious world. 

You can choose from four tracks: 

• Interreligious Studies (this track is given in English), looking at interreligious cooperation and communication;

• Peace, Trauma and Religion (this track is given in English), where you will study peace and conflict studies;

• Spiritual Care (this track is given in Dutch), where you will learn about spiritual care in healthcare institutions, prisons and the military;

• Exploring a Discipline (this track is given in English), which allows you to explore one particular discipline such as  Buddhism, Islam in the West, Biblical Studies or Digital Humanities.

Career Prospects

• This programme seeks to prepare students effectively to become interfaith leaders in our increasingly multi-religious world. You will not only learn critically analyze different ‘theological, philosophical and ideological perspectives’ on the meeting between religions, you will also will also participate in various dialogue activities aimed at developing interreligious literacy. 

• Thus, you will acquire the skills to become border-crossers and bridge-builders and these skills are increasingly viewed as a vital component for employees who seek work. 

• Upon receiving your degree you will be qualified for challenging career prospects in any institution that demands interreligious competencies: schools, hospitals, governmental and non-governmental institutions as well as companies. Religious professionals and leaders will also benefit from this programme. 

Promotion alumni sessions Master’s day

During the Master’s day, you can also meet our (international) alumni during several workshops. In these sessions they will tell you more about career opportunities after finishing your Master’s degree.