Religion and the Public Domain

The Bachelor's programme in Religion and the Public Domain at the University of Groningen offers students an in-depth understanding of religious traditions, beliefs, and practices as they intersect with societal, cultural, and political contexts. This multidisciplinary programme combines insights from theology, anthropology, history, and sociology to explore how religions influence and are influenced by the public sphere. Students will examine various religious movements, their roles in contemporary society, and the ways in which religious identities shape social and political issues worldwide.

Throughout the programme, learners engage with theoretical frameworks and empirical research methods to analyze the complex relationships between religion and topics such as politics, ethics, human rights, and social justice. They will study different religious communities, their interactions with government institutions, and the impact of religion on debates about gender, sexuality, ethnicity, and secularism. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, intercultural awareness, and the ability to approach sensitive topics with respect and analytical rigor.

The programme's structure includes core courses in religious studies, electives tailored to students' interests, and practical components such as internships or research projects. The University of Groningen's vibrant academic environment provides access to a diverse faculty of experts in religious studies, as well as opportunities for active engagement with local communities and international organizations. Graduates will be equipped with the skills to pursue careers in academia, journalism, policy-making, intercultural consultancy, or non-governmental organizations, contributing thoughtfully and knowledgeably to public debates involving religion.

By the end of the programme, students will have developed a nuanced understanding of the role of religion in shaping societal values and public policies, as well as the competences to analyze and interpret religious phenomena in a globalized world. This bachelor’s programme prepares graduates to critically engage with religious issues in an informed, respectful, and constructive manner, fostering an understanding of the diversity of religious expressions and their significance within the broader social fabric.

Description of the programme:

The Bachelor’s Degree in Religion and the Public Domain at the University of Groningen offers students a comprehensive understanding of how religious beliefs, practices, and institutions influence and shape societal, cultural, and political life. This interdisciplinary programme combines insights from theology, religious studies, sociology, history, and political science to analyze the role of religion in contemporary public issues and historical contexts. Students will explore a variety of religious traditions, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, and other faiths, with a focus on their impact on various aspects of society such as law, education, media, and social movements.

Throughout the programme, students will develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and cultural sensitivity necessary to engage thoughtfully with complex questions surrounding religion and secularism in the public sphere. Courses cover topics such as religious philosophy, ethics, secularization, interfaith dialogue, religious freedom, and the role of religion in policy making. Practical skills are also emphasized, including academic writing, research methodology, and effective communication, preparing graduates for careers in academia, policy advisory, intercultural consulting, or religious organizations.

The programme includes lectures, seminars, and workshops led by experienced faculty members and guest speakers from various religious and secular backgrounds. Students have opportunities for internships, field research, and participation in interfaith dialogues to gain real-world experience. The final year concludes with a thesis that allows students to delve deeply into a specific topic of interest, contributing original insights to the field of religion studies.

Graduates of the programme will be well-equipped to analyze the ongoing influence of religion in modern society critically. They will possess a broad understanding of religious diversity and its significance for social cohesion, conflict resolution, and community development. The programme prepares students for further academic research or professional careers in fields such as international organizations, governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, journalism, and cultural sectors. With its emphasis on interdisciplinarity and practical engagement, the Bachelor’s Degree in Religion and the Public Domain aims to foster informed, reflective, and active participation in societal debates concerning religion and its role in the public world.

Admission requirements

Students must be willing to complete the second year at one of the partner universities.

Other requirements

1. minimum kennis (ISPAC: overige vereisten) Students must be willing to complete the second year at one of the partner universities.
2. taaltoets cijfer Minimum requirement of TOEFL iBT 97 (with a minimum of 24 on writing skills) or IELTS 7 (with a minimum of 6.5 on all items). ERK level C1.
3. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Bachelor's diploma in a field related to Computer Science, Theoretical Linguistics, Artificial Intelligence

The Financing of the Religion and the Public Domain master's programme at the University of Groningen is primarily supported through a combination of Dutch government funding, university scholarships, and potential private grants. Dutch students enrolled in the programme are typically eligible for student financial support from the Dutch government, which includes loans and/or grants, depending on their personal circumstances and Dutch residency status. International students may seek funding through various channels such as university scholarships, external grants, or sponsorships, although specific scholarship options directly tied to this programme are limited.

The University of Groningen offers several scholarship opportunities for international students, including the Holland Scholarship and various faculty-specific grants, which can partially cover tuition fees or living expenses. These scholarships are highly competitive and often require applicants to demonstrate academic excellence and motivation related to the programme. Additionally, students may secure educational loans through Dutch or their home country financial institutions.

Employment during studies is another funding avenue for enrolled students, as the university's location in Groningen provides opportunities for part-time work, especially in teaching, research assistance, or on-campus roles. Such employment can supplement students' income and enable them to finance their studies effectively.

Tuition fee policies are standardized for different student categories, with EU/EEA students paying lower fees compared to non-EU/EEA students. Non-EU/EEA students are required to budget for higher tuition costs, which can be supplemented through the scholarships and part-time work options mentioned.

The university also encourages students to explore external funding opportunities, including Erasmus+ grants for exchange students or sponsorships from cultural and religious organizations aligned with the programme's themes. The programme's interdisciplinary nature in the field of religion and society makes it attractive to a range of funding bodies interested in religious studies, social sciences, and public policy.

Overall, the financing structure for the Religion and the Public Domain master's programme is designed to be accessible through a mix of government grants, university scholarships, personal savings, and work opportunities, balancing financial support sources to enable talented students to pursue their studies regardless of their financial background.

The Master’s program in Religion and the Public Domain at the University of Groningen offers students an in-depth understanding of the role of religion in contemporary society. This interdisciplinary program investigates how religious beliefs, practices, and identities influence social, political, and cultural developments worldwide. Students explore various religious traditions, their historical backgrounds, and their interactions with modern societal issues such as secularism, diversity, human rights, and globalization. The program emphasizes critical analysis and encourages students to examine religion from multiple perspectives, including theological, sociological, anthropological, and political viewpoints.

Courses include topics like religious pluralism, religious traditions and social change, religion and law, and secularization. The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with practical insights, preparing students for careers in academia, policy-making, intercultural dialogue, advocacy, and education. Research-intensive projects and seminars foster analytical skills and independent thinking. The program also emphasizes research methods relevant to religious studies, enabling students to undertake their own investigations into issues related to religion's public role.

Students have access to a diverse set of resources, including libraries, archives, and networks of scholars specializing in religion, society, and culture. The program promotes international collaboration and often includes guest lectures and seminars with experts from around the world. Graduates of the program are equipped to critically assess the impact of religion on contemporary societal issues and contribute to informed debates and policy-making processes. Overall, it provides a comprehensive, multidisciplinary exploration of religion’s significance in the public sphere, tailored to those interested in understanding and engaging with the complexities of religion in modern society.