Theology and Religious Studies - Peace, Trauma and Religion

Overview

The theoretical basis in this Theology and Religious Studies - Peace, Trauma and Religion programme from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam will be provided by three thematic modules with a focus on theological and interreligious interpretations of peace and justice, and religious roots of violence, reconciliation in religious perspective, healing of trauma, religion in the public domain (public theology). 

You will explore and discuss scientific research in the fields of religion, violence, trauma and reconciliation from various disciplines, including (Peace-) Theology and Ethics, Islam Studies, Psychology, Practical Theology, amended by inputs from other faculties. – The study year might start with a concise summer-school (to be announced).

Today, we witness the rise of national and regional conflicts - so-called “new wars” -, often linked to religious and ethnic diversity or enmity, usually triggered by unjust living conditions. In a globalized world, every regional conflict affects and is affected by the larger international community. At the same time we observe the devastating influence of violent conflicts on individuals as well as on relations within families and communities (trauma). 

These developments have created a growing interest in the political and public arena to explore and develop skills for peace making and peace keeping – locally, regionally, and internationally – as well as for conflict prevention and post conflict care, like trauma healing. 

The challenges are taken up in a variety of disciplines: Political Science, Law, The Humanities, Medicine, et al. In the field of Theology and Religious Studies, all of these insights are considered and critically reflected (in research, education, and praxis) from the perspective of different faith traditions. 

Career Prospects

• Students will find employment in a wide range of non-governmental as well as governmental institutions, media and research, international organizations as well as religious institutions, or in the field of health care and counselling.

• The faculty offers the opportunity to continue the one-year programme with a second year to complete the Research Master (leading to a possible PhD programme).