Religious Studies

Intake Season

Winter (October); Summer (April)

Duration

4 semesters

Academic Admission

All persons that have a sincere scientific interest in the study of religions are welcome to apply for the MA programme in Religious Studies offered by CERES. There are some general and specific requirements and criteria that have to be met in order to be accepted. General Requirements The main requirement for being accepted to any MA programme of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum as a graduate student is at least a BA degree or equivalent. All students must present the original certificate of their current academic degree in order to enrol at Ruhr-Universität Bochum. Admission for International Students from Non-EU Countries Certificates of universities or other institutions of higher education from non-EU countries may be subject of approval. For further information, please check the websites of the International Office of Ruhr-Universität Bochum. Specific Requirements BA Degree in Religious Studies or Similar Subject As mentioned above, the main requirement for being accepted as a graduate student is at least a BA degree or equivalent. The degree should prove a minimum of three years of university study in Religious Studies or a related discipline. Graduates of other MA programmes may also apply for the CERES programme. Basic Knowledge in Theories In order to maintain an academically advanced course level, all future graduate students are required to have a basic knowledge in theories and methods in the study of religion. According to the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), this should account for 12 credit points in undergraduate studies or equivalent. All applicants without knowledge of Religious Studies or the social sciences can prepare themselves by using the CERES online learning platform with an oral exam based on a Skype interview beforehand. Otherwise, it is advised to take courses in Religious Studies or related disciplines at the home university or at the CERES programme for BA students in Bochum. The latter, however, is only offered in German. Basic Knowledge in History of Religions Applicants shall prove some basic knowledge in the history of religion or in at least one religious tradition – to an amount of 15 credit points. This knowledge should correspond to the desired specialisation in religious traditions, regions, and historical periods chosen while a graduate student at CERES. In the likely case that you do not meet all the requirements, we grant access to our graduate programme if you need not more than 15 credit points according to ECTS to catch up on them. Otherwise, you can prepare yourself by taking part in our e-learning courses to catch up with knowledge on theories and methods in the study of religions or by taking courses at your home university relevant to fulfil the requirements. If you don't think that you have fulfilled all the requirements but are interested in studying at CERES, please contact the Dean of Students, Dr Jens Schlamelcher.

APS Certificate

An APS certificate is required for applicants who have completed their qualifying education in India, China, or Vietnam.

IELTS Score

IELTS 9.0 overall

Application Deadline

Application deadlines are subject to changes. Please refer to the above university course link for the most accurate information.