Systematic Theology

The Master's degree programme in Systematic Theology at Radboud University offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of Christian theological doctrines, practices, and methodologies. Rooted in the rich intellectual tradition of the university and aligned with contemporary theological debates, this programme aims to equip students with both critical analytical skills and profound spiritual insights. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including the nature of God, Christology, ecclesiology, soteriology, and eschatology, providing students with a holistic understanding of Christian faith and its theological foundations. Emphasizing both historical perspective and contemporary relevance, the programme encourages active engagement with current theological issues, fostering a nuanced understanding of religion in society today.

Students will have the opportunity to delve into biblical exegesis, philosophical theology, ethics, and interfaith dialogue, promoting an interdisciplinary approach to theological study. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, research projects, and a substantial thesis, learners develop their research skills and contribute to ongoing theological discourse. The programme also emphasizes practical applications of theology, preparing graduates for careers in academia, religious leadership, pastoral work, or further scholarly research.

Radboud University’s international environment provides an ideal setting for critical discussion and intercultural exchange, with a faculty renowned for their expertise in systematic theology. The programme encourages students to reflect on the implications of their faith and theology for contemporary society and global issues. Graduates of the MSc in Systematic Theology will be well-equipped to analyze, interpret, and communicate complex theological ideas, making a meaningful contribution to religious communities, educational institutions, or public debates on faith and morals. Overall, this programme offers a challenging and rewarding path for those passionate about exploring the depths of Christian theology and understanding its role in the modern world.

Subjects includes philosophy of religion, feminist theology and spirituality studies as well as the more conventional subjects fundamental theology, dogmatic theology and theological ethics.

Taking a few seminars from the other theology disciplines of choice (Church History, Literary Theology or Practical Theology) is mandatory to broaden students general knowledge on Theology.

A completed Bachelor's degree in Theology or related area
 

A proficiency in English

In order to take part in this programme, you need to have fluency in both written and spoken English. Non-native speakers of English* without a Dutch Bachelor's degree or VWO diploma need one of the following:

• A TOEFL score of ≥575 (paper based) or ≥90 (internet based)
• An IELTS score of ≥6.5
• Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) or Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) with a mark of C or higher

* Applicants are considered to be a native speaker of English if they are from Australia, Canada (with exception of Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, UK, USA or South Africa.

There are various scholarships available for studying at Radboud University. Some of the opportunities are described below. A full list, including detailed information, can be found on our scholarships and grants page at our website. 

Radboud Scholarship Programme

Open to a select number of excellent international students. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Orange Tulip Scholarship

Open to students from Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Indonesia, South-Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and China. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Fulbright-Radboud Scholarships

Open to excellent American students. The grant will be paid in 12 monthly instalments of 1,050 euros. International travel and the cost of the residence permit will be covered, and an extra allowance of €1150 will be paid on arrival.

Sino-Dutch Bilateral Exchange Scholarship

Open to excellent students from China. Consists of a contribution of € 16,113 towards the total costs of one year of study or research in the Netherlands.

DIKTI-Neso Scholarships

Aimed at lecturers at higher education institutions in Indonesia who wish to pursue a PhD or Master's at a university in the Netherlands. A DIKTI scholarship includes allowances for living expenses, insurance, travel costs, tuition fees and more.

Indonesian Education Scholarship (LPDP)

Open to excellent Indonesian students under the age of 35. Involves a full scholarship.

Holland Scholarship Programme

Open to excellent students from Canada, America, India and Turkey. Scholarship consists of 5,000 euros payed at the start of study.

Dutch Student Finance

EU/EEA students and Swiss students under 30 years of age are eligible if they are working at least 56 hours per month in the Netherlands, or have been living in the Netherlands for five years or more. Dutch student finance consists of four components: a basic grant, a supplementary grant (depending on the parental income), a student travel product, and a loan.

The Master’s programme in Systematic Theology at Radboud University offers students a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of theological doctrines, religious concepts, and their implications within contemporary society. This programme is designed to equip students with advanced analytical skills and a critical perspective on Christian theology and other religious traditions, fostering an understanding of how faith interacts with modern issues such as ethics, politics, and cultural diversity. The programme is typically structured to include core courses in biblical studies, philosophical theology, ethics, and the history of theology, alongside specialized electives that allow students to focus on particular areas such as dogmatics, Christology, or intercultural theology.

Students are encouraged to develop their own theological perspective through rigorous academic research, engaging with primary texts, and participating in discussions led by faculty members who are recognized experts in their fields. The programme promotes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from philosophy, history, and cultural studies to contextualize theological concepts within societal developments. Radboud University emphasizes values such as open-mindedness, critical thinking, and respect for diverse religious views, which are embedded in the teaching philosophy.

The programme often includes opportunities for practical training, such as internships or study abroad experiences, enabling students to gain real-world insights into religious organizations, academic institutions, or interfaith initiatives. Graduates of the Master’s in Systematic Theology are well-prepared for careers in academia, religious organizations, education, or roles requiring theological expertise in public policy or social work. The university’s strong international network provides access to a global community of students and scholars, fostering a collaborative and enriching learning environment.

Overall, this Master’s programme stands out for its academic rigor, inclusive approach to religious diversity, and its focus on addressing contemporary issues through theological reflection. It aims to prepare students not only for scholarly pursuits but also for active participation as thoughtful agents in a diverse and complex world, contributing to dialogue, understanding, and social cohesion.