History of Religions

The Master of Arts in History of Religions at the University of Geneva offers an in-depth exploration of religious beliefs, practices, institutions, and texts across different cultures and historical periods. This program is designed for students interested in understanding the complex role religion has played and continues to play in shaping societies, cultures, and individual experiences worldwide. Encompassing comprehensive theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches, the curriculum allows students to analyze religious phenomena from multiple perspectives, including anthropological, sociological, historical, and textual analyses.

Throughout the program, students will engage with a diverse range of topics such as comparative religion, religious iconography, sacred texts, rituals, mythologies, and contemporary religious movements. They will learn to critically evaluate historical sources, interpret religious symbols and narratives, and examine the interaction between religion and other social forces such as politics, gender, and ethnicity. The program emphasizes both global and regional studies, enabling students to develop a nuanced understanding of religious diversity and dynamics across different periods and geographic areas.

Students will benefit from expert faculty members who are renowned in the fields of religious studies, anthropology, history, and related disciplines. The program includes coursework, seminars, and research projects designed to foster analytical skills, academic writing, and independent research capabilities. Opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and participation in academic conferences enhance practical experience and professional development.

Graduates of this program will acquire the critical skills necessary for careers in academia, cultural heritage institutions, museums, NGOs, publishing, journalism, and public policy related to religion and intercultural dialogue. The Master’s in History of Religions at the University of Geneva prepares students to become informed, reflective, and engaged scholars and professionals capable of addressing complex questions about religion in contemporary society.

The History of Religions program at the University of Geneva offers an in-depth exploration of religious traditions, beliefs, and practices from antiquity to the modern era. This interdisciplinary program combines historical, cultural, linguistic, and anthropological perspectives to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how religions have shaped human societies throughout history. Students will analyze sacred texts, archaeological findings, and contemporary religious movements, gaining critical insights into the diversity and complexity of religious life across different cultures and periods. The curriculum emphasizes comparative studies, encouraging students to examine similarities and differences among religious traditions globally. Throughout the program, students will engage with key themes such as mythologies, rituals, religious symbols, and the socio-political roles of religion. They will also explore the interactions between religion and other societal factors like politics, philosophy, and art, fostering an interdisciplinary approach to religious studies. The program aims to develop analytical skills, critical thinking, and a nuanced understanding of the role of religion in human history. With a mix of lectures, seminars, workshops, and research projects, students are encouraged to participate actively and develop their own scholarly perspectives. Graduates of the program will be equipped to pursue careers in academia, museum and cultural heritage management, religious organizations, or other fields where an understanding of religious history is valuable. The University of Geneva's Department of Religious Studies offers a vibrant academic environment, equipped with resources such as libraries, archives, and access to international scholars, to support students throughout their studies. Overall, the History of Religions program fosters a deep appreciation of religious diversity, critical analysis skills, and a historical perspective that enables students to understand the ongoing influence of religion in contemporary society.

The Bachelor of Arts in History of Religions at the University of Geneva requires students to complete a comprehensive curriculum that provides foundational knowledge across various religious traditions, their historical developments, and cultural contexts. The program typically begins with introductory courses that explore the core concepts of religious studies, including theories of religion, methodologies, and cross-cultural perspectives. Students are then encouraged to select specialized courses focusing on specific religious traditions such as Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, and indigenous beliefs, among others. These courses often combine lectures, seminars, and workshops designed to deepen understanding and promote critical analysis.

In addition to coursework, students are expected to engage in independent research projects, fieldwork, or study trips, which enhance practical understanding of religious practices and community dynamics. Language requirements may include proficiency in one or more relevant ancient or modern languages, depending on the chosen specializations. The program places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches, incorporating insights from anthropology, sociology, history, and philology to provide a holistic perspective on religious phenomena.

During the course of the degree, students are also encouraged to participate in internships or research assistantships to gain firsthand experience in fields related to religious studies, such as museums, archives, or religious communities. The final phase of the program involves a thesis or capstone project, where students demonstrate their ability to independently analyze a specific topic within the history of religions, utilizing various sources and methodological approaches. Successful completion of this program ensures graduates develop critical thinking skills, cultural sensitivity, and a nuanced understanding of the role of religion in historical and contemporary societies, preparing them for careers in academia, education, cultural management, or related fields.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

The History of Religions program at the University of Geneva offers an in-depth exploration of the diverse religious beliefs, practices, and traditions that have shaped human societies throughout history. This program is designed for students interested in understanding the cultural, social, and historical dimensions of religion across different civilizations and time periods. The curriculum encompasses a wide range of topics, including ancient and contemporary religions, mythologies, religious texts, rituals, and the social impact of religious movements. Students will engage with comparative analysis to identify similarities and differences among religious systems and explore how religion influences art, politics, and identity.

The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and interdisciplinary research methods, encouraging students to examine religious phenomena from historical, anthropological, and textual perspectives. Courses are complemented by seminars, workshops, and supervised research projects, providing a comprehensive academic experience. The faculty comprises renowned scholars in the field of religious studies, offering expert guidance and mentorship. Students are also given opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and participation in conferences to enhance their practical understanding of religious practices worldwide.

Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in academia, cultural preservation, interfaith dialogue, education, journalism, or roles within religious organizations. The program promotes multilingual proficiency, often including courses in relevant languages such as Latin, Greek, Hebrew, Sanskrit, or modern languages depending on the focus area. The University of Geneva’s strategic location offers students access to a vibrant international community and numerous resources for research in religious studies. The duration of the program typically spans three years for a Bachelor's degree and an additional one to two years for a Master's degree, depending on the course structure and specialization chosen.

Overall, the History of Religions at the University of Geneva aims to foster a nuanced understanding of religious phenomena and their significance in shaping human history, encouraging students to critically analyze the role of religion in societal development and contemporary issues.