Religious Studies
Does Religious Studies suit me?
Studying Religious Studies
Religious studies is a field of study that focuses on religions and religious worldviews from different perspectives: this includes questions about the history and origins of religions as well as their significance for individuals and society. What is often important in this field of study is not your own faith, but rather your interest in religious phenomena.
In religious studies as a field of study, historical, psychological, political, cultural, and social aspects are combined to examine and analyze religions. You’ll learn about individual religions, from their spread and development to their theological teachings and rites.
You’ll also learn which criteria are used to compare religions scientifically and how to examine social structures and cultural practices. The interplay between religion on the one hand and politics, economics and culture on the other is also an important topic.
In the field of religious studies, you can either research religious phenomena and beliefs across religious boundaries or specialize in one religion, for example, Judaism, Christianity, or Islam. Typical degree programs in this field of study include comparative religious studies, religious education, diaconal work & social work, and ethics and religions.
Personal requirements | Religious Studies
- Interest in religions and cultures
- Social skills
- Empathy
- Strong communication skills and expressiveness
- Open-mindedness
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Take the testTypical course content | Religious Studies
- Religious traditions
- Source studies and analysis
- Interreligious dialog
- Sociology of religion
- Faith, ethics, morals
- History of religion
- Religions in modern media
- Religious economics
- Fundamental methodology in the humanities and social sciences
- Religious ethnology
Career prospects | Religious Studies
With a degree in religious studies, you can research religious phenomena or teach at schools and universities. In organizations for interreligious mediation or in the field of development aid, you’ll be in demand to advise on complex topics or organize projects.
You might find work in the culture and tourism industry, where you can organize trips or exhibitions on religious topics or carry out educational work. There will also be career opportunities awaiting you in the media and publishing industries.
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