Overview
The MPhil in History of Religions from the MF Norwegian School of Theology explores fundamental questions about religion from a historical standpoint:
- What is religion? How did this concept develop?
- How do historians study ancient religions?
- How are sacred texts used and abused?
- What is the relationship between religion and violence?
- How did religious groups, ideas, and artefacts travel from place to place and how did that migration transform them?
What you'll learn
Using the cultures of the ancient Mediterranean world and the Silk Road as a focal point, students will have the chance to explore the study of ancient manuscripts, archaeological evidence, and a variety of theoretical approaches to the study of the pre-modern world.
The program investigates the development and interactions of ancient Jews, Christians, and Muslims, along with lesser known ancient groups such as Manichaeans and the devotees of Isis, Mithras, and other gods, while utilizing both classic approaches and more recent theories and methodologies.
Accreditation
Programme Structure
Courses include:
- Owning and sharing holy matter: texts, artefacts and places
- Encounters: Common Categories and Concepts in Abrahamic religions
- Methodology: Texts and History
- Theoretical perspectives: The historical study of religion
- Religious change, exchange and counterchange: A long-term historical perspective
- The Craft: Research Skills and Professional Engagement in the Study of Religion
Key information
Duration
- Full-time
- 24 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting
- Apply before , EEA/EU
-
Language
Credits
Delivered
Disciplines
Area & Cultural Studies Religious Studies & Theology Modern History View 5 other Masters in Religious Studies & Theology in NorwayAcademic requirements
English requirements
Other requirements
General requirements
- Bachelor’s degree
- A minimum average grade of C overall and in the specialization subject area.
- A combination of relevant religious studies and history credits: A minimum of 80 ECTS credits including specialization in one subject area, and a minimum of 20 ECTS credits in the other subject area.
- International students must document necessary English language competencies according to MF’s requirements.
- A statement of interest: In a statement of 200-400 words, applicants should describe their interest and experience in the academic study of history and religion and inform the admissions office of their reasons for considering a graduate education in History of Religions.
Tuition Fee
-
International
740 EUR/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 370 EUR per semester during 24 months. -
EU/EEA
740 EUR/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 370 EUR per semester during 24 months.
Semester fee is NOK 3650,-
Living costs for Oslo
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
Studyportals Tip: Students can search online for independent or external scholarships that can help fund their studies. Check the scholarships to see whether you are eligible to apply. Many scholarships are either merit-based or needs-based.