Religious Studies

Religion matters in society: 85% of the world's population identify themselves as religious. And religion is an important factor in many national and international political, cultural and social issues. For instance in relation to climate change, sexual health, diversity discussions, heritage, radicalization, migration, conflicts and peacebuilding. Worldwide, there are many conflicts, sensitivities and political discussions in which religion plays an important role, which makes experts on religion needed today.

In this programme you will be introduced to the phenomenon of religion, and you will deepen your knowledge of various aspects of the major religions in the world. In class, you will not debate to what extent religion is 'true', but how religion affects people's lives, and what people do with it. You will study people's behavior and thinking, and examine the prominent role religion plays in their lives.

You will study this from different academic perspectives: history, anthropology, sociology, psychology, and philosophy. Therefore, you will become a broadly trained social scientist.

Challenge yourself and study the religion factor in culture and society.

How do religions come into existence? How do they affect people and societies? What role does religion play in conflicts and peacebuilding? And what does religion have to do with climate change?