Programme description for Master's Programme in Religion, Philosophy and Society (2022–2024)

Upon completion of the study programme, students will have acquired the following:

Knowledge
Students will have

• advanced knowledge of religion, applied ethics or philosophy in a social context
• specialized knowledge within the topic of the thesis
• extensive knowledge of religious change in society and the interaction between religions
• extensive knowledge of scientific theories and research methods in religion and ethics
• the ability to analyze philosophical or religious scientific topics based on the subject area´s history

Skills
Students will

• be able to analyze scientific base material and apply relevant theories and research methods in the study of philosophy or the science of religion
• be able to analyze and evaluate philosophical or religious scientific presentations critically and independently
• carry out an independent research project under supervision and in accordance with the ethical standards

Competences
Students will

• have skills in scientific communication and discussion, both written and oral, and be able to make complex - subject matters understandable to a wider audience
• be able to analyze relevant academic and research ethic issues
• be able to apply their knowledge and skills in new areas in the implementation of advanced tasks and projects
  

The general admission requirement is a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent education of a minimum of three years (180 ECTS credits). A major of at least 80 ECTS credits in religion must be included. At least 20 credits must be on extension level 2. An average grade of C or better is a requirement. The calculation is based on the complete bachelor’s degree.

The Master's Programme in Religion, Philosophy, and Society provides students with knowledge about the relationship between religion and philosophy in Norway and internationally. The various topics give insight into religions' and world views' different situations and positions in a global world. The program provides a relevant and thoroughly competence of sociology of religion, applied ethics or philosophy.

The study extends knowledge from the bachelor's level, and the master's thesis gives an opportunity to specialize in a subject in which the student is interested. The courses are interdisciplinary and include perspectives from religious studies, ethics or philosophy.

The programme consists of four courses of 15 credits and a master's thesis (60 credits). Coursework is stipulated to one year and the thesis to one year. During the work with the thesis, students shall attend presentation seminars (see REL 500).