Programme description for Bachelor's Programme in Religion, Ethics and Society (2026–2029)

Knowledge

Upon completion of the programme the student will have acquired

• broad knowledge of the origin of the world religions and their present situation in Europe
• insight into the teachings, the ideology and the practice of the world religions
• knowledge of the holy texts of the tree Semitic religions
• knowledge of today's religious pluralism and variety of world views
• a broad understanding of ethical theory and argumentation throughout history
• a broad knowledge of the perspectives of social science on the interaction between religion, human beings and society
• knowledge of research and development within the field of religious science

Skills

Upon completion of the programme the student will be able to

• reflect on how religion and world views affect social change and historical processes
• reflect on current ethical problems and the UN sustainable development goals
• discuss what challenges that arise in the meeting between religions and world views
• apply academic knowledge and relevant research in the production of the bachelor's thesis

General competence

Upon completion of the programme the student will be able to

• convey various views on the role that religion and world views play on different social arenas in today
• apply knowledge of religion, world views and ethics on specific, practical questions that one may meet in everyday life, at festivals, special incidents and work situations
• understand what religion may mean for individuals and develop the ability to see other perspectives

Higher Education Entrance Qualification.

Prerequisites for direct admission to the second year:
A one-year programme in religion or the equivalent comprising at least 40 ECTS credits in Christianity and other religions. For conditional admission a minimum of 30 ECTS credits in religion must be passed.

Do you want to understand more about what religion can be, and how it can affect people and the way they think and live? Do you need expertise in religious diversity and different ways of exercising faith? Would you like to learn about the interaction between religion and society past and present – and about how religion can motivate cultural creation and civic engagement?

The bachelor's programme in Religion, Ethics and Society provides basic knowledge of religions, worldviews and ethics. This is important in order to be able to interpret events, social conditions and cultural phenomena historically and today. It can also help you to understand people and to treat them with respect.

You learn about "everyday religion" and doctrinal issues, and about ethics in the face of everyday and demanding situations. You will also learn about the methods and theories you need to be able to analyse religions and worldviews as meaningful systems. Knowledge of ethical theory helps to reflect on good solutions when it is difficult to assess what is right or wrong.

You encounter questions such as: What role do religion and worldviews play in history and in society today? How are sacred texts created and what do they contain? What do you think about ethical challenges, and how can you apply ethical theory to meet them? How can religions and worldviews contribute to conflicts between people, groups and societies – and to respect, inclusion, understanding and dialogue? You will also receive training in asking questions and answering yourself.

The programme provides expertise on many topics from the UN Sustainable Development Goals, such as peace, justice, gender equality, sustainable consumption and quality of life. The objective of promoting empowerment and inclusion of all, regardless of age, gender, disability, race, ethnicity, religion, economic or other status (10.2), is particularly central.

The specialisation module of the bachelor programme consists of 90 ECTS credits, six courses on level 1, and three courses on level 2, one of which is the bachelor's thesis. Study trips and a longer study abroad period may be included. Normally there will be a voluntary study trip during the first year.

The third and final year of study consists of a minor (60 credits). Students may choose from a variety of relevant one-year programmes and course combinations. Choose either a one-year study programme (60 credits), two 30 credit course combinations, or one 30 credit course combination and 30 credits free standing courses.

See the paragraph on student exchange. ‘Religions in Asia’ may be included as a 30-credit unit.

Parts of the program have an international perspective and convey knowledge and understanding of the place of religions in the world and through history. The program explores global challenges and the relationship between different religions and cultures. Some of the prescribed texts are in English and the course may be taught in English. The program structure lets our students study abroad for one or two terms. We offer Religious Studies in Asia (30 credits) as one of our options for student exchange.

A Bachelor's Degree in Religion, Ethics and Society will be a sound foundation for work that requires critical and independent reflection. The degree is relevant for work within the fields of education, culture, publishing and journalism.

The programme may qualify for master's programmes in religion, philosophy and social sciences at UiA and other master's programmes within the field of religious science at other instututions, provided the average grade is C or better. Together with other school subjects and a master's degree, the programme may qualify for admission to the one-year programme in educational theory and practice (PPU-A) and qualify for work as a teacher in lower secondary school, upper secondary school and in adult education.

The programme qualifies for admission to the Master's Programme in Religion, Philosophy and Society, which again qualifies for admission to the PhD-specialization in Religion, Ethics and Society.

Programme coordiantor: Helje K. Sødal (helje.k.sodal@uia.no)
Study adviser: Silje Ramfjord Lykkedrang (silje.lykkedrang@uia.no)