Master of Arts in Religious Studies
Explore religion’s global influence through interdisciplinary study at Leiden University’s world-class programme.
Best for:Best for students with a passion for comparative religion, cultural analysis, and interdisciplinary humanities research who seek to understand religion’s societal impact.
Overview
The Master of Arts in Religious Studies at Leiden University offers a multidisciplinary approach to understanding religion as a diverse and influential human phenomenon. Students engage with comparative perspectives, analysing religious practices, beliefs, and their impact on society, politics, culture, and economics. The programme leverages Leiden’s exceptional research collections and faculty expertise to examine religion’s role in contemporary and historical contexts. Ideal for those seeking to explore religion’s global significance, this degree prepares graduates for careers in academia, policy, cultural analysis, and beyond. It emphasises critical thinking, cross-cultural analysis, and the application of religious studies to real-world challenges.
What you'll do
- Develop a deep understanding of religion as a multifaceted human phenomenon through comparative and interdisciplinary approaches.
- Engage with primary sources and research collections to analyse religious texts, practices, and historical contexts.
- Conduct independent research on a specialised topic within the field of religious studies, guided by faculty mentors.
- Participate in seminars and discussions to explore diverse religious traditions and their global influence.
- Develop critical analytical skills to interpret religious phenomena within broader societal, political, and cultural frameworks.
- Collaborate with peers and faculty on interdisciplinary projects that bridge religious studies with other humanities disciplines.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Religious Studies, Humanities, Social Sciences, or a related field
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: English; Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (C1), Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (C2), IELTS overall band 6.5, or TOEFL internet-based score of 90
Instruction: English
- Strong academic writing and research skills
- Ability to analyse complex cultural and religious phenomena
- Proficiency in conducting comparative studies across religious traditions
- Critical thinking and independent research capabilities
- No specific nationality restrictions
- No age restrictions
- No prior work experience requirements
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 2027-04-01
Applicants must submit their application through Leiden University’s official online portal. Required documents include a CV, a letter of motivation, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a research proposal outlining the intended focus of study. Additional materials may be requested based on the programme’s specific requirements.
- CV
- Letter of motivation
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree)
- Proof of English proficiency (Cambridge C1/C2, IELTS 6.5, or TOEFL 90)
- Research proposal (500-1000 words)
Contact
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