Table of contents

The course is connected to the following study programs

Teaching language

English (if there are non-Norwegian speaking students present)

Recommended previous knowledge

60 ECTS credits in religion, ethics or equivalent.

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, the student should

Knowledge

  • have knowledge of the relationship between modernity and religion, and of globalization and secularization
  • have knowledge of ongoing debates in studies of religion and society
  • have broad knowledge of religion as a basis for radicalisation
  • have knowledge of relevant theoretical approaches and current methodological discussions

Skills

  • be able to analyse how contexts affect religion at different levels
  • be able to discuss and analyze relevant issues related to global processes
  • be able to discuss how and why fundamentalist movements have arisen and developed within different religious traditions
  • be able to discuss the relationship between religion and nationalist and populist movements

General competence

  • contribute to critical reflection on the role of religion in global, as well as different geographical and socio-cultural contexts
  • be able to convey key topics related to fundamentalism, nationalism and populism
  • be able to apply knowledge about extremism to current issues where religion is a factor

Contents

The course provides knowledge about the interaction between religion, people and society in national and global contexts. The aim is to provide students with the analytical tools to understand current developments in religion in different socio-cultural contexts. You will gain knowledge of key theoretical perspectives and empirical data that you can apply to interpret processes of religious change and continuity in contemporary society. The course deals with topics such as religion and globalization, migration and extremism. The focus is on the relationship between religious minorities and the majority, religious movements, religious nationalism and religious extremism. In addition, the course also addresses the new wave of authoritarian and populist movements in different parts of the world and their connection to religion. The theoretical approach to the study of religion and society is largely drawn from the sociology of religion, but perspectives from religious studies are also included. The course provides analytical competence that will be relevant in many professional roles.

Teaching and learning methods

You will use several teaching and learning methods, such as lectures, self-study, assignment writing, and seminars. The scope of work is estimated at approximately 270 hours.

Examination requirements

Essay of approx. 5 pages (2000 words). Further information will be given in Canvas at the beginning of the semester.

Examinations

Four-hour written examination under supervision. Graded assessment (A-F).

Student evaluation

The person responsible for the course decides, in cooperation with student representative, the form of student evaluation and whether the course is to have a midway or end of course evaluation in accordance with the quality system for education, chapter 4.1.

Offered as a free-standing course

Yes. Subject to availability or capacity.

Admission Requirement if given as a free-standing course

Higher Education Entrance Qualification.

Reduction of Credits

This course’s contents overlap with the following courses. A reduction of credits will occur if one of these courses is taken in addition:

Course Reduction of Credits
REL204 – Dialog and Conflict. 5
Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 2:42:33 PM