Religious Studies

What role does religion play in conflicts, radicalization, migration, and climate change? And can freedom of speech and freedom of religion coexist, or does one exclude the other? Religion matters. Worldwide, 85% of the population identify themselves as religious. In the Bachelor’s programme, you study people's behavior and thinking, and you explore how religion gives meaning to people’s lives, and the way people practice religion. In class, you won't discuss to what extent religions are 'true'; instead, you examine what people and societies do with religion and the impact this has locally, regionally, and globally. Beacuse it's beyond question religion plays a key role in today’s pressing issues: from climate change and sustainability to radicalization, heritage, sexual health, migration, war, and peace. The programme is broad and interdisciplinary. You will study religion and world religions from multiple perspectives - such as history, anthropology, sociology, psychology, political science, and philosophy - and discover the many ways in which religion drives and influences society. Understanding religion is key to understanding today’s world, and experts who can analyze and explain the impact of religion are essential today. Do you turn your curiosity into knowledge and expertise? Delve into the role of religion and gain a deeper understanding of the world.

Founded in 1614, the University of Groningen is the second oldest university in the Netherlands with over 33,000 students. Known for its vibrant student city atmosphere (1 in 4 residents is a student), excellent research output, and 4 Nobel Prize laureates including Ben Feringa (Chemistry 2016).