This Master's programme offers an interdisciplinary exploration of religious traditions across Europe, both historical and contemporary. Combining methods from history, religious studies and cultural studies, the curriculum examines how religion shapes and is shaped by Europe's diverse societies and their global connections, using a critical postcolonial perspective.
Students can concentrate in one of four tracks: General Religious Studies, Jewish Studies, Islamic Studies, or the Cultural History of Orthodox Christianity. Each specialization is led by a professor supported by a team of early-career researchers, giving students access to focused supervision and active research projects. The programme is taught in English, making it accessible to international applicants.
The Department of Religious Studies is embedded in the University's research area “Religion – Society – Self‑World Relations,” which fosters interdisciplinary dialogue and research opportunities. Prospective international students will find training that prepares them for academic research as well as careers in cultural institutions, education, or public policy. For detailed course structures, research profiles, and enrollment procedures, consult the Department of Religious Studies at the university.
Requirements / Practical info (short)
This two-year, research-focused MA balances systematic, theoretical study of religion with a focused specialisation in a single religious tradition. Teaching is organised into modules; each module comprises two seminars worth 9 ECTS each (so 18 ECTS per module). Coursework is concentrated in the first three semesters, while the fourth semester is dedicated to an independent Master’s thesis.
Core compulsory modules give you methodological and comparative tools: A01 Theory and Methodology of Religious Studies (18 ECTS) trains you in the theoretical frameworks and research techniques used across the field, and C01 Religious Pluralism (18 ECTS) explores contemporary approaches to religious diversity and interreligious encounters. You will also complete two specialised modules (a–b) within your chosen religious tradition (36 ECTS total), allowing you to develop advanced, tradition-specific knowledge and analytical skills. An additional optional module (18 ECTS) lets you broaden or deepen your profile. Across these seminars you will gain competence in critical reading, academic argumentation, comparative analysis, and independent research design.
In the fourth semester you write a Master’s thesis of approximately 80 pages, carrying 30 ECTS, which synthesises your coursework and demonstrates your ability to conduct sustained, original research. For students who need greater flexibility, a part-time pathway spreads the taught semesters over six terms, with a final seventh semester reserved for the thesis.
Requirements (concise)
Total workload (sum of listed components) = 120 ECTS.
You must hold a Bachelor's degree in a relevant academic field. The undergraduate qualification can be either a major or a minor in a subject that provides a solid foundation for advanced study in religious studies and related philosophical approaches.
Acceptable areas include a range of humanities and social sciences, as well as training in historical and language-based disciplines. The list below gives typical examples of fields considered appropriate for admission.
Winter Semester (International)
15 July 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
1 September 2026
Graduates are prepared for careers in academia and research as well as for roles in cultural institutions, museums, archives, education, media, NGOs and public administration where expertise in religion, intercultural competence and research skills are required. The interdisciplinary training and language-focused specialisations also suit positions in international organisations, intercultural dialogue projects and consultancy roles that address religious diversity and transnational entanglements.
Those wishing to continue in research can pursue doctoral studies; the programme’s strong methodological grounding and close contact with research teams provide a clear pathway to PhD programmes in religious studies, history, cultural studies and related fields.