General information
This internationally unique MA programme explores the formative stages of the three monotheistic religions, Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The comparative perspective is central in this programme.
In contemporary discourse about religion, many people base their claims on particular perspectives on the origins and sacred texts of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. To be able to assess modern claims and views, a thorough grounding in these traditions and an understanding of their origins is necessary.
As a contested concept, the term Abrahamic Religions challenges us to consider what is shared, different or contested between the various expressions of Jewish, Christian and Islamic traditions and the interactions between their adherents in different contexts in the ancient world. In this MA programme you will learn about these pluriform traditions and contexts in their formative periods. How were sacred texts produced and transmitted? How did they transform and survive in shifting historical and cultural contexts? You will gain in-depth knowledge of the separate traditions and communities, analyse these in a comparative framework and gain a new understanding of their origins and interaction.
Career prospects
The historical perspective taken in this MA programme will enable you to gain an understanding of contemporary issues such as acculturation; the use of Jewish, Christian and Islamic traditions and their sacred texts in politics and society; and religious violence. The current debate often refers to perceived historical realities. An understanding of the historical context is essential when assessing such debate and thus contributes to a better understanding of sustainable society.
Trained academics in this field are almost non-existent, and there is a great need to address the issues above through teaching. You can make use of the knowledge and skills that you acquire on the programme in different sectors: Consulting & Policy, Media & Journalism, Education and Academia.
Admission
The following requirements apply:
- Bachelor’s degree programme in Theology or Religious Studies or in a related field in the Humanities (Arts, Philosophy) or Social Sciences (Sociology, Cultural Anthropology, Psychology).
- Proof of English: TOEFL: 580 paper/237 computer/92 internet
IELTS: 6.5 (not for native-speakers or Dutch students with a VWO diploma)
- a letter of motivation stating your reasons for applying to this master programme
- an overview of your bachelor programme including the marks you obtained
- a curriculum vitae
- two recommendation letters
More information
Website: Master programme Origins of Abrahamic Religions: Texts and Contexts
Brochure: create your own brochure
Study advisor: Ms Drs. T.M.L. de Boer
International Office: internationaloffice.thrs@rug.nl
Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies, Oude Boteringestraat 38, NL-9712 GK Groningen
Telephone: +31 (0)50 363 8017
E-mail: thrs@rug.nl
