Why the comparative study of religion?

"What fascinates me about the study of religion is its exploration of why people believe and the role religion plays in the lives of individuals and in society. I was particularly drawn to the interdisciplinary approach, which combines perspectives from the social sciences and cultural studies. This perspective ultimately convinced me that Religious Studies was the right field for me." (Silvia, MA student at CERES)

What is Religious Studies?

Religious Studies is an independent academic discipline that examines religions scientifically. It seeks to understand and explain religious traditions and practices across cultures, both past and present, by focusing on religion as a human and social phenomenon. Known in German as Religionswissenschaft (“the science of religion”), the discipline draws on methods from the humanities, social sciences and, where appropriate, the natural sciences. Its research is based on empirical data and addresses a wide range of religious traditions and contexts.

Religious Studies explores how beliefs, practices and communities shape human life and society—and how social, cultural and political contexts influence religious beliefs and practices in return. Its research focuses on topics such as rituals, communities, politics, beliefs, material culture and religious practices. By studying religion as a social fact, Religious Studies provides a deeper understanding of its role in both historical and contemporary societies.

Religious Studies and Theology

Although Religious Studies and theology both study religion, they differ fundamentally in their aims and methods. Unlike theology, Religious Studies does not seek to establish the truth of any religion or the existence of transcendent beings. Instead, it investigates how religions are lived, practiced and understood within different societies using critical, evidence-based approaches.

Study Religion from Social, Cultural and Historical Perspectives

The MA in Religious Studies at Bochum explores religion as a social, cultural and historical phenomenon. Throughout the program, you will:

An Interdisciplinary Program

The MA program combines two complementary approaches to the study of religion. Students gain theoretical and methodological expertise from the social and cultural sciences to analyze religion in its societal contexts, while also receiving training in philological and historical methods that enable them to work with and interpret historical sources. This combination distinguishes the Bochum program from many other Religious Studies degrees.

Research and teaching span the history of religion from the Ancient Orient to the present. Regionally, particular strengths lie in Europe and Asia, and (for the modern period) the Americas. The religious traditions, regions and topics reflect the expertise of the teaching staff. In keeping with this interdisciplinary profile, CERES researchers come from a wide range of academic backgrounds. We therefore welcome applications from graduates of Religious Studies and related disciplines.

Further information is available in the course catalogue and staff profiles.