Religion, Conflict and Globalization – (M.A.)

In this Master’s programme you research the role of religion in current processes of globalization and localization. You learn to analyse national and international conflicts and to show how they are interwoven with religious interests and opinions. You will also gain an understanding of the different ways in which both migrants and ‘stay-at-homes ’ call on religion to establish a role for themselves in a fast-changing world.

You can make use of the knowledge and skills you acquire on this programme in different sectors.

Consulting & Policy. In a globalizing world, national and international conflicts are far-reaching. There is a need for experts who can explain and solve these conflicts. With your degree, you can advise or write policy documents on different subjects, such as, developmental assistance or multicultural society. You could work for the government, in business or at an NGO. More specifically, this could mean working for the think-tank of a political party, for the Netherlands Institute for Social Research or for the Netherlands Institute of International Relations Clingendael.

Media & Journalism. Religion is in the news every day, often in a negative way: from terrorism to integration issues. With your expertise in the field of religion and conflict, you can intensify the debate in society and, where necessary, add some nuance to the picture. You can put your knowledge into practice as an editor at a publishing company, a broadcasting company, a newspaper or a current affairs magazine.

Education. You will have enough knowledge of the subject to teach Religious Studies and Philosophy or Social Studies in secondary education. You could also opt for a position in higher vocational education. As you also need didactic skills as a teacher, it is advisable to do a Master’s in Education after you have completed your regular Master’s programme.

Academia. If, during your studies, you reach the conclusion that you would like to stay in academia, you can choose to apply for a place on the Research Master after your regular Master’s programme. If you are admitted, you can complete this two-year programme in one year. The Research Master is a good stepping stone towards a PhD position or a research post at a national or international knowledge institute.