Theology and Religious Studies

The Bachelor's programme in Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Groningen offers students an in-depth exploration of the diverse religious traditions, beliefs, and practices that shape societies worldwide. Designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of religion from historical, cultural, and philosophical perspectives, this programme prepares students to analyze the role of religion in contemporary global issues. Throughout the three-year degree, students engage with a broad curriculum covering major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Indigenous spiritualities, as well as examining secular and non-religious worldviews. The programme emphasizes developing critical thinking skills, intercultural awareness, and research competence, enabling graduates to interpret religious phenomena and their impact on social, political, and ethical domains.

Students have the opportunity to delve into various thematic modules, including religious texts and doctrines, ethics, religious history, and contemporary religious movements. The coursework encourages active participation through lectures, seminars, assignments, and projects, fostering an interactive learning environment. Additionally, the programme supports experiential learning through excursions to religious sites, interaction with religious communities, and guest lectures from prominent scholars and practitioners. The interdisciplinary approach combines insights from history, philosophy, anthropology, and sociology, offering students versatile skills applicable in careers across education, journalism, policy-making, cultural consultancy, and international relations.

Graduates of this programme are equipped with a nuanced understanding of religious diversity and the complexities of faith and belief systems, making them valuable contributors in multicultural and interconnected societies. The programme also provides a solid foundation for those interested in pursuing further studies at the master's level in fields such as Theology, Religious Studies, or related disciplines. With its international orientation and emphasis on critical analysis, the Bachelor's in Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Groningen prepares students to actively engage with global religious issues, contribute to intercultural dialogues, and foster mutual understanding in a rapidly changing world.

The Bachelor's programme in Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Groningen offers students a comprehensive exploration of religious beliefs, practices, and institutions across different cultures and historical periods. This interdisciplinary course combines insights from history, philosophy, anthropology, and cultural studies to foster a nuanced understanding of the role of religion in society and individual lives. Throughout the programme, students engage with a diverse range of topics including biblical studies, world religions, religious ethics, spirituality, and the impact of religion on politics and social issues. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and intercultural awareness, preparing graduates for careers in education, research, diplomacy, social work, or the non-profit sector, or for further academic study. The programme is designed to develop both theoretical understanding and practical skills through lectures, seminars, group projects, and fieldwork. Students are encouraged to participate in internships and exchange programmes, which enhance their global perspective and professional development. The university’s faculty comprises renowned scholars with extensive research backgrounds, providing students with mentorship and opportunities to engage in innovative research projects. The learning environment fosters an open, inclusive atmosphere where diverse perspectives are valued and discussed. By the end of the programme, students will have gained a deep understanding of the complexity of religious phenomena and their significance in contemporary society, equipping them with critical insight and academic rigor to analyze religious issues from multiple angles. The programme's flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies according to their interests, with options to focus on particular religions, regions, or thematic areas. Overall, the Bachelor’s in Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Groningen prepares students to critically examine religion’s role in shaping human experience and to contribute thoughtfully to societal debates on religious and ethical matters.

Admission requirements

In order to start the master in Psychology programme you have to be formally admitted to the programme. You can be admitted to the master programme twice a year: per the first of September and per the first of February. All students with a bachelor Psychology from a non-Dutch university have to follow this procedure: Applicants require a Bachelor's degree in Psychology or an equivalent competence in terms of: * Knowledge of disciplinary subjects in psychology and their applications, * Good skills in designing psychological research and reporting it, * Solid knowledge of methods of data collection and statistical analysis, * An analytical and critical attitude enabling you to assess scientific information, * Motivation to acquire knowledge and skills at a postgraduate level

Other requirements

1. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) In order to start the master in Psychology programme you have to be formally admitted to the programme. You can be admitted to the master programme twice a year: per the first of September and per the first of February. All students with a bachelor Psychology from a non-Dutch university have to follow this procedure: Applicants require a Bachelor's degree in Psychology or an equivalent competence in terms of: * Knowledge of disciplinary subjects in psychology and their applications, * Good skills in designing psychological research and reporting it, * Solid knowledge of methods of data collection and statistical analysis, * An analytical and critical attitude enabling you to assess scientific information, * Motivation to acquire knowledge and skills at a postgraduate level
2. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Toelating is mogelijk voor * Studenten die de bacheloropleiding Psychologie aan de Rijksuniversiteit Groningen volgen of gevolgd hebben (onvoorwaardelijke toelating). Aanmelding is tot 1 september /1 februari mogelijk. * Studenten die een bacheloropleiding Psychologie aan een andere Nederlandse universiteit volgen of gevolgd hebben (na toestemming toelatingscommissie) * Studenten die een andere (universitaire) bacheloropleiding volgen of gevolgd hebben. Hieronder vallen ook hbo-studenten die de opleiding Toegepaste Psychologie volgen of gevolgd hebben (met pre-master) Let op: hbo-studenten die een andere opleiding volgen of gevolgd hebben dan (Toegepaste) Psychologie worden niet toegelaten tot de masteropleiding of het schakelprogramma. Een aanvraag tot toelating zal niet in behandeling worden genomen. De toelatingcommissie baseert toelating en eventueel aanvullend schakelprogramma van een externe studenten op basis van vooropleiding. Kijk voor meer informatie op:http://www.rug.nl/gmw/psychology/education/switch-modules.
3. intake gesprek Na toelating volgt een gesprek met de coördinator van het masterprogramma.
4. schriftelijk verzoek Meld je aan via www.studielink.nl. In Studielink selecteer je eerst “Psychologie” van de drop-downlijst met studies en vervolgens het gewenst masterprogramma. Heb je nog vragen, neem dan contact op via: bss.msc.admission@rug.nl.
5. schriftelijk verzoek To apply for this program, first go to Studielink. In Studielink, you first need to select “Psychology” from the drop-down list of study programs. After you have submitted your details in Studielink, you will receive an e-mail with the information necessary to activate your user account for OAS (the Online Application System). In OAS you can choose for the specific master program. See the following website for some guidance in OAS: http://www.rug.nl/education/international-students/application-procedure. Please upload the following documents in OAS: * a certified copy of the (Bachelor) diploma on the basis of which you ask admission to our programme (both original language and translated in English) * a certified copy of your transcript of records (both original language and translated in English) * a certified copy of your results for one of the mentioned English tests (exc. for native speakers) * a copy of your passport or ID card * a letter of motivation * two references Please send all documents to: Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Admissions Office, Faculteit Gedrags- en Maatschappijwetenschappen, Broerstraat 5, 9712 CP Groningen, The Netherlands. If you have any doubts about your application, please contact us at: bss.msc.admission@rug.nl.
6. aanvullend vak Applicants should have qualifications that justify the expectation of successful completion of the programme in due time. These qualifications include knowledge and experience in relevant theories, statistics and experience with statistical software packages. Please be aware of our high level of statistics during the bachelor psychology programme and subsequent to this the required high level of statistics in our master Psychology programme.
7. taaltoets cijfer Non-native English speakers must moreover provide evidence of satisfactory results for one of the standard tests below : * CPE: A, B or C * CAE: A, B or C * TOEFL: 580 paper-based or 237 computer-based or 92-93 internet-based * IELTS: Band 6.5

Tuition fees for the Theology and Religious Studies program at the University of Groningen vary depending on the student’s residence status and the specific program components. For prospective international students, the university charges a statutory or institutional fee, which typically ranges from approximately €2,200 to €11,000 annually. The exact fee depends on whether the student is from the European Union/EEA area or outside it, as well as whether the student is enrolled in a full-time or part-time program. EU/EEA students generally benefit from lower tuition fees, which are close to the statutory fee, whereas non-EU/EEA students face higher institutional fees. These fees are subject to change annually based on university policy and governmental regulations.

In addition to tuition fees, students should consider living expenses, which include accommodation, food, transportation, books, and other personal costs. The estimated living costs for students in Groningen range from €800 to €1,200 per month, depending on accommodation type and personal lifestyle. The university provides estimated budget information to help students plan their finances accordingly. Students are advised to explore various funding options, such as scholarships, grants, and student loans. The University of Groningen offers several scholarships for international students, including the Holland Scholarship, which provides a one-time grant to outstanding students from outside the EU/EEA. Other scholarships specific to the Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies may also be available, sometimes based on merit, need, or country of origin.

Students are encouraged to apply for external funding sources, including government grants or financial aid from home countries. Many students finance their studies through a combination of personal savings, family support, scholarships, and part-time work opportunities. The university facilitates part-time employment through its career services, enabling students to work within regulated hours to support their finances while studying. It is important for students to verify visa and residence permit requirements, which may impose restrictions on employment during studies for non-EU/EEA students. Furthermore, the university provides financial advice and planning resources to assist students in managing their studies and living expenses effectively. Possible additional costs include health insurance, which is mandatory for international students and varies depending on coverage; on average, health insurance costs are around €40-€100 per month.

Overall, studying Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Groningen requires careful financial planning, but numerous support options and flexible work arrangements are available to help students manage their financial commitments.

The Master's programme in Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Groningen offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of religious beliefs, practices, and institutions across different cultures and historical periods. This programme is designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of the complex role religion plays in society and to develop critical analytical skills related to religious phenomena. The programme covers a variety of topics, including the history of religions, theological doctrines, sacred texts, rituals, and contemporary religious issues. It encourages students to engage with different faith traditions and philosophical perspectives, fostering a nuanced appreciation of diversity and pluralism in religious life.

Students have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as Biblical Studies, Comparative Religion, Theology, and Religion in Society. The curriculum integrates both theoretical and practical approaches, often involving interdisciplinary methods, including anthropology, history, philosophy, and linguistics. The programme emphasizes academic research skills, critical thinking, and contextual understanding, preparing graduates for careers in academia, education, policy analysis, cultural consultancy, or religious organizations.

Courses are taught by experienced faculty members renowned for their research and teaching in the fields of theology and religious studies. The university provides access to extensive resources, including a rich library collection and digital archives related to religious studies and theology. Students are encouraged to participate in seminars, workshops, and conferences, and may also undertake internships or research projects to gain practical experience.

The Master's in Theology and Religious Studies typically takes one or two years to complete, depending on the chosen track and study load. Throughout the programme, students are expected to develop their thesis based on original research, which contributes to scholarly discussions in the field. The programme's international orientation and diverse student body foster an inclusive academic environment that encourages dialogue and critical engagement with global religious issues. Upon graduation, students are well-equipped to pursue further academic research, or to contribute their expertise to a range of professional contexts in religious and cultural sectors worldwide.