Master of Arts in Theology and Religious Studies: Peace, Trauma, and Religion
Explore the intersection of religion, conflict resolution, and societal reconciliation through a multidisciplinary lens.
Best for:Best for students with a background in theology, religious studies, or humanities seeking to specialize in peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and interdisciplinary religious analysis.
Overview
This Master’s programme at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam focuses on the role of religion in peacebuilding, trauma recovery, and conflict resolution. It critically examines how religious narratives and practices contribute to both violent conflicts and non-violent reconciliation processes across societies, nations, and environmental contexts. Students engage with multicultural and postcolonial perspectives to address contemporary societal challenges, blending theoretical study with practical applications. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, preparing graduates for careers in academia, policy, or conflict-sensitive fields. Ideal for those passionate about ethics, spirituality, and social transformation.
What you'll do
- Engage in critical analysis of religious texts and practices through postcolonial and multicultural lenses.
- Develop interdisciplinary research skills to address contemporary societal conflicts and reconciliation efforts.
- Participate in seminars and workshops that bridge religious studies, ethics, and peacebuilding theory.
- Apply theoretical knowledge to practical case studies in conflict resolution and transitional justice.
- Collaborate with peers and faculty on research projects focused on religion’s role in societal healing.
- Contribute to academic discussions and debates on the ethical dimensions of religion in diverse contexts.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Theology, Religious Studies, Humanities, Social Sciences, or a related field
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: English; IELTS overall band score of 6.5 or TOEFL internet-based score of 92 (or equivalent)
Instruction: English
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills in religious and ethical studies
- Ability to conduct interdisciplinary research combining theology, sociology, and conflict studies
- Proficiency in academic writing and research methodologies
- Familiarity with postcolonial and multicultural theoretical frameworks
- No specific nationality restrictions
- No age restrictions
- No prior work experience required
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
Admissions not verified
A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.
- Intake
- Not confirmed by the source
- Duration
- Not confirmed by the source
- Teaching language
- Not confirmed by the source
- Taught / research mode
- Not confirmed by the source
- Study mode
- Not confirmed by the source
- Campus
- Not confirmed by the source
- Prerequisites
- Not confirmed by the source
- Application instructions
- Not confirmed by the source
- Tuition
- Not confirmed by the source
- Funding
- Not confirmed by the source
How to apply
Deadline: 2027-04-01
Applicants must submit their application through the official Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam portal. Required documents include a CV, a letter of motivation, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a research proposal. Additional materials may be requested depending on the applicant’s background.
- CV
- Letter of motivation
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree)
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent)
- Research proposal (if applicable)
Contact
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.