Religion and Pluralism, Ancient and Modern

Program description:

The Bachelor’s degree in Religion and Pluralism, Ancient and Modern at the University of Groningen offers a comprehensive exploration of religious beliefs, practices, and traditions from antiquity to the present day. This interdisciplinary program combines insights from theology, history, anthropology, and cultural studies to provide students with a nuanced understanding of the role religion plays in diverse societies worldwide. Throughout the course of this program, students will examine major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism, alongside lesser-known faiths and spiritual movements, to understand their origins, development, and contemporary relevance.

The program emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills, encouraging students to explore questions about religious identity, interfaith dialogue, secularism, and the impact of religion on social and political issues. Students will also investigate the ways in which religious beliefs intersect with issues of gender, race, and ethnicity, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to the study of religion in both historical and modern contexts.

Students will benefit from a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, debates, and fieldwork. They will have opportunities to analyze primary sources, engage with religious communities, and participate in internships or research projects, all designed to deepen their understanding and foster practical skills. The curriculum aims to prepare graduates for careers in education, research, intercultural communication, international organizations, or further academic study.

Graduates of this program will possess a broad and deep knowledge of religious traditions and their significance in global history and contemporary society. They will be equipped to analyze complex issues related to religious diversity, secularism, and religious influence in public life with sensitivity and critical insight. The program encourages an open-minded and inclusive perspective, essential for working effectively in multicultural and multireligious environments. With a strong emphasis on academic research, critical analysis, and intercultural awareness, the Bachelor’s in Religion and Pluralism at Groningen is an ideal choice for students interested in exploring the rich tapestry of human spirituality from an interdisciplinary and global perspective.

The Master's programme in Religion and Pluralism, Ancient and Modern at the University of Groningen is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of religious traditions, belief systems, and their developments across different historical periods and cultural contexts. This programme combines rigorous academic study with cross-disciplinary insights, offering a unique perspective on how religions influence societies, politics, and individual lives both in the past and present. Students will explore the classical texts and practices of ancient religions, including those of Egypt, Greece, Rome, India, and China, gaining insights into their origins, narratives, rituals, and moral systems. Concurrently, the programme examines modern religious movements, contemporary issues of religious diversity, secularism, and interfaith dialogue, equipping students with the necessary tools to analyze current debates on religion and society.

Throughout the programme, students will engage with a variety of methodological approaches, including textual analysis, ethnography, philosophy, and history, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills. They will investigate key themes such as religious identity, secularity, religious conflict, and the role of religion in public life. The curriculum emphasizes both historical depth and contemporary relevance, preparing graduates for careers in academia, policy, intercultural dialogue, education, journalism, or religious consultancy.

The programme also offers opportunities for specialization through electives and projects, allowing students to focus on particular religious traditions or societal issues that interest them most. Interaction with scholars, participation in seminars, and research projects are integral parts of the learning experience. The University of Groningen’s vibrant intellectual environment and its extensive network of academic partnerships provide students with a stimulating context for their studies. Graduates from the programme will be well-equipped to contribute thoughtfully and critically to discussions on religion and pluralism in a globalized world, making a meaningful impact in academic, societal, and policy domains.

Admission requirements

A letter of motivation to the admissions committee explaining the choice for this study programme (max. 1 page) is required, just like an overview of your bachelor programme, a Curriculum Vitae and a writing sample of an academic paper in OAS (Online Application System).

Other requirements

1. schriftelijk verzoek A letter of motivation to the admissions committee explaining the choice for this study programme (max. 1 page) is required, just like an overview of your bachelor programme, a Curriculum Vitae and a writing sample of an academic paper in OAS (Online Application System).
2. cijferlijst A grade list of the marks of your bachelor's degree programme with an explanation of the followed courses.
3. taaltoets cijfer TOEFL: 580 paper/237 computer/92 internet; IELTS: 6.5 (6.0 on each part) (not for native speakers)
4. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Bachelor degree in Theology, Religious Studies, Arts, Philosophy or Social Science (e.g. Anthropology, Psychology, Sociology). Depending on your former study and courses a reading package will be provided. We assume that you are aware of the concepts and theoretical discussions outlined in this literature. Students with another bachelor's degree can be permitted via a bridging programme.

The Financing of the "Religion and Pluralism, Ancient and Modern" program at the University of Groningen is primarily covered through a combination of government grants, student loans, and personal funds. Dutch students often qualify for financing options such as the Dutch Student Loan System (Studiefinanciering), which provides loans and grants designed to support their educational expenses. These loans are typically reimbursed upon graduation, and eligibility is based on specific criteria such as residency status and age. International students might have access to scholarships or grants provided by the university, the Dutch government, or external organizations focused on promoting intercultural and religious understanding. The university encourages students to seek funding opportunities through the Groningen University Scholarship Program or other international scholarship schemes. Additionally, students may obtain part-time employment during their studies, both on and off-campus, to support living expenses and educational costs. The program benefits from the Netherlands’ robust higher education funding infrastructure, which emphasizes accessible and equitable education funding. Furthermore, private donations and alumni contributions occasionally support the development of special modules, symposiums, or research projects related to religious studies and pluralism. Students are advised to explore the university’s financial aid office and official website for detailed, up-to-date information on available funding and application procedures. Overall, financing the program combines national support mechanisms with personal planning, ensuring that students can focus on their academic pursuits without undue financial concern.

The Religion and Pluralism, Ancient and Modern Master's program at the University of Groningen offers a comprehensive study of religious traditions and their interactions within diverse societies from antiquity to the contemporary era. This program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the historical development of religious beliefs, practices, and institutions, alongside critical insights into how religious pluralism operates in today’s globalized world. Students will explore a wide range of topics, including the emergence of major world religions, the coexistence of different faiths, interfaith dialogue, secularization, and the role of religion in politics and culture. The curriculum combines historical analysis with contemporary issues, allowing students to critically examine the impact of religion on social cohesion, conflict, and identity.

The program is taught by experts in the fields of religious studies, history, anthropology, and sociology, providing a multidisciplinary approach to the subject matter. Students are encouraged to engage in comparative analysis and develop their skills in critical thinking, research, and academic writing. The program often includes opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and participation in seminars and conferences, fostering practical experience and professional development. Graduates of this Master's program are well-equipped for careers in academia, cultural institutions, NGOs, governmental agencies, and media organizations that focus on religious issues. The University of Groningen's rich academic environment, international atmosphere, and strong networks make this program an ideal choice for students interested in understanding the complex role of religion in past and present societies worldwide.