Religious Studies approaches religion as a subject of empirical, scholarly inquiry rather than a branch of theology. The programme trains you to analyse religious beliefs, practices and institutions as social phenomena: how rituals, communities, ideas, material culture and political contexts shape—and are shaped by—religious life. It does not aim to prove or defend religious truth-claims; instead it uses social-scientific and interdisciplinary methods to explain religion in historical and contemporary settings.
At the Center for Religious Studies (CERES) the field is taught and researched from many disciplinary angles. Faculty and researchers draw on tools from history, philology, sociology, anthropology, psychology, art history, political science, economics and even natural-science approaches where appropriate. The curriculum emphasises empirical data, critical methods and comparative perspectives so you learn to study religion as an observable part of human interaction and society.
This MA is well suited to international students who want a non-confessional, research-oriented education in religion and who value an interdisciplinary environment. The programme is offered in English and welcomes applicants with diverse academic backgrounds; students are encouraged to bring prior training from humanities, social sciences or related fields and to develop methodological competence for independent research.
Who should apply / key points
This two-year (four-semester) MA is structured to give students a broad but rigorous grounding in the academic study of religion. You can take it as a single-major MA or combine it with a second major. Many international students prefer the one-major route; if you choose the two-major option, be aware that the other subject may be offered only in German and would therefore demand proficient German for admission and study. Check the programme’s guidance on acceptable second-major choices before applying.
The curriculum is organised into four distinct areas that combine theory, historical depth, comparative perspective and practical application. Theories, Comparison and Methods in the Study of Religion comprises two core modules that introduce major theoretical frameworks and comparative research techniques. The History of Religion area offers three elective modules (students must select two), enabling concentrated study of historical developments and traditions. The Applied Study of Religion includes two modules, of which you take one, focusing on contemporary, practice-oriented questions and research applications. Complementary courses round out the degree by allowing you to broaden or deepen related skills and knowledge.
Graduates will develop the ability to critically engage with theoretical debates, apply comparative methods across religious phenomena, and conduct historically informed analyses. The applied component trains you to translate scholarly insight into practical research projects or policy-relevant work. Overall, the programme aims to build advanced analytical, methodological and communication skills that are useful for academic, cultural, or public-sector careers. If you are considering a two-major programme, review the information about language and course availability for the second subject before deciding.
Requirements (curricular structure)
This programme welcomes applicants who have a genuine academic interest in studying religions. Admission is based on a combination of general university rules and specific subject-related prerequisites. International applicants should note that some documents from non‑EU institutions may require formal recognition before enrolment. All admitted students must present the original copy of their highest academic certificate when they enrol.
Entry requires at least a completed BA (or equivalent) and subject-specific preparation in theories/methods and the history or traditions of religion. CERES offers preparatory e‑learning and an online oral exam for applicants lacking formal background; there is also a BA programme in Bochum (taught in German) for those who wish to upgrade their undergraduate training. If you are unsure whether your qualifications meet the requirements, contact the Dean of Students, Dr Jens Schlamelcher, for guidance.
Admission requirements (concise)
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Subject‑specific:
If you lack required credits:
Questions / advice:
Winter Semester (International)
15 July 2026
Summer Semester (International)
15 January 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 July 2026
Summer Semester (EU/EEA)
15 January 2027
Graduates are prepared for careers that require advanced analytical and research skills related to religion and society. Typical pathways include academic research and doctoral studies, positions in cultural institutions (museums, archives), education and outreach, international and local NGOs, public administration and policy roles dealing with religion, migration or cultural affairs, as well as media and consultancy roles that engage with religious literacy and intercultural dialogue.
The programme’s methodological and language training also equips students to pursue specialised work in area studies, archival research, or roles that require expertise in particular religious traditions and source languages. Many alumni continue into doctoral programmes or research positions at universities and research institutes.