Religious Studies (MA)

Why study Religious Studies at Leiden University?

Religion continues to play a central role in shaping societies worldwide. Its influence can be seen across politics, culture, economics, and daily life. While secularisation has transformed some societies, religious affiliation remains widespread and is growing globally. This master's programme provides the tools to understand and analyse religion's place in an increasingly interconnected world.

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Key reasons to choose Leiden University:

• Academic excellence: Leiden University is internationally recognised for its wide-ranging expertise and outstanding scholarship, offering an excellent foundation for the study of religion globally and from a comparative perspective.
• Balanced curriculum: The programme combines theoretical insight with practical application, helping you develop strong research skills and experience working with a variety of sources and methods.
• A personalised study path: A broad selection of elective courses enables you to shape the programme around your interests, whether you want to specialise in a particular religious tradition or focus on specific themes and approaches within the study of religion.
• Global and regional expertise: Our scholars study religions in a variety of historical, cultural, and geographical contexts worldwide, including Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
• A welcoming academic community: The department's small scale creates a welcoming and collaborative atmosphere, with approachable lecturers and close interaction between students and staff. 
• Exceptional resources: As a Religious Studies student, you will have access to excellent research facilities, including the world-renowned library collections of Leiden University. 

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Staff expertise and approaches

Our academic staff are specialists in a wide range of religious traditions, historical periods, and cultural contexts. Their research draws on approaches from across the humanities and social sciences, providing students with a rich and multifaceted understanding of religion.

Areas of religious expertise include: 

• Christianity, Islam, Judaism 
• Buddhism, Hinduism, Japanese and Chinese Religions 
• New Religious Movements, Ancient Religions, African Indigenous Religions 

Disciplinary approaches include: 

• Anthropology, Sociology, History 
• Psychology, Cognitive Studies, Law 
• International Relations, Political Science, Public Policy 
• Diaspora Studies, Science and Religion

Markus Davidsen

University Lecturer

"The vast majority of people in the world are religious and that is not going to change. To understand the world, both past and present, one therefore has to understand religion. In pluralistic societies, such as the Netherlands, moreover, there is a growing need for religion experts in education, municipalities, NGOs, and various ministries. The Religious Studies programme in Leiden aims to educate those religion experts. The programme combines an emphasis on theory and research skills with the opportunity to build up familiarity with the job market through workshops and internships."

What are your career prospects?

By the end of the programme, you will have developed the knowledge and analytical skills needed to critically engage with complex global issues and address societal challenges. Our graduates have built successful careers in:

• Communication, Journalism, Publishing  
• Public Policy, Government and Public Affairs 
• Education and Teaching 
• Counselling and Social Care 
• Research and Academia

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Is Religious Studies the programme for you?

The MA Religious Studies is an excellent choice if you: 

• Are interested in the role of religion in society, politics, and culture worldwide 
• Want to strengthen your analytical and research skills
• Are considering a career in academia, education, public policy, or the media
• Value studying religion from multiple disciplinary perspectives and across different societies

Check the admission requirements   

MA Religie en Levensbeschouwing

We also offer the MA Religie en Levensbeschouwing. This two-year programme is specifically targeted at the educational sector and is taught in both English and Dutch.