Peacemaking and peacekeeping skills have never been more valued than they are today. Globalisation has triggered a growth in communities that are diverse in their religious and ethnic mix. Often linked to this diversity is a rise in national and regional conflicts (the so-called ‘new wars’). In addition, the world is witnessing a growing enmity, usually triggered by unjust living conditions.
In a globalised world, every regional conflict affects, and is affected by, the wider international community. At the same time we observe the devastating influence of violent conflicts on individuals, as well as on relations within families and communities (trauma).
These developments have created a growing interest, both in the political and public arena, to explore and develop skills for peacemaking and peacekeeping – locally, regionally, and internationally – as well as for conflict prevention and post-conflict care, like trauma healing. These challenges are taken up in a variety of disciplines such as Political Science, Law, the Humanities and Medicine.
In the Master’s Theology and Religious Studies you will consider and critically reflect on all of these issues, in the fields of research and education as well as in practical application, from the perspective of different faith traditions.
Religion is often misused to incite violent conflicts, while at the same time it is one of the strongest ethical and spiritual resources for conflict resolution and transitional justice, between individuals, groups and in reconciliation processes within whole societies.
During this Master’s programme you will explore and learn about theories, practices, and experiences. You will be well prepared to participate in this growing field of peace and conflict studies.
A theoretical basis for understanding Peace, Trauma and Religion
You will gain a theoretical basis of this broad topic through modules focusing on:
- the theological and interreligious interpretations of peace and justice;
- the religious roots of violence;
- reconciliation as seen from a religious perspective;
- the healing of trauma;
- religion in the public domain.
You will explore and discuss scientific research in the fields of religion, violence, trauma and reconciliation from disciplines such as (Peace-) Theology and Ethics, Islam Studies, Psychology and Practical Theology.
Your study year may start with a summer school (to be announced).
Compulsory courses:
- Hermeneutics, looking at the skills of interpretation and reflexivity;
- Research Skills, teaching you academic research practices and discussing problem formulation, methodology and analysis;
- Master Seminar, developing and discussing a portfolio of your own academic and professional qualities. This runs throughout the year alongside the other modules, and ensures an individual component as well as the interdisciplinary and interreligious dialogue with students and lecturers from various fields.
- Your internship and thesis account for your second semester.