Religious Studies (MA)

Why study Religious Studies at Leiden University?

Religion continues to shape societies across the globe. Whether in politics, culture, economics, or daily life, its influence remains profound. Despite trends of secularisation in some areas, on a global level religious identification is growing and most people around the world continue to be affiliated with religious organisations and communities. This master's programme offers you a unique opportunity to understand religion’s role in the modern world. 

Learn more about the study programme 

Key reasons to choose Leiden University:

• Academic excellence: Leiden University is famous for its wide range of specialisms and outstanding scholarship, providing you with an excellent basis for the study of religion from a comparative perspective. 
• Balanced curriculum: Courses consist both of theory and applied practice, offering you hands-on experience; all the necessary research skills, tools and historical sources. 
• Alternating electives: A variety of alternating electives gives you freedom of choice. Specialise in one of many religious traditions or opt for a methodological approach. 
• Global and regional expertise: The department includes scholars with regional specialisations in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. 
• Personlised learning environment: The relatively small size of our department allows for an informal atmosphere and approachable staff members. 
• Unique resources: As a Religious Studies student you have access to unique resources, including Leiden's world-renowned library collections. 

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Staff expertise and approaches

The Religous Studies programme relies heavily on the research of staff members from the Leiden University Centre for the Study of Religion (LUCSoR). They bring together expertise in specific religions with a comparative approach that draws on a variety of humanistic and social scientific disciplines.  

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 be equipped with everything needed to critically analyse complex situations around the globe and tackle problems in society at large. Our graduates have pursued successful careers in: 

• Media & Journalism  
• Public Policy & Government  
• Education – as teachers of religion or philosophy 
• Counselling  
• Academic Research 

Find out more about your career prospects   

Is Religious Studies the programme for you?

The MA Religious Studies is ideal if you: 

• Are interested in religion’s role in society, politics, and culture 
• Want to develop strong analytical and research skills 
• Seek a career in academia, education, policy, or media 
• Value a multidisciplinary and global approach to religious studies 

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.