Biblical Studies

Specialisation of: Theology and Religious Studies
Degree: MA in Theology and Religious Studies
Mode of Study: Full-time, part-time
Duration: 1 year
Start date: September, February
Language of instruction: English
Location: Leiden
Croho/isat code: 60824
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The Biblical Studies specialisation of the Master’s Programme in Religious Studies offers a unique opportunity to study the Bible (Hebrew Bible and New Testament) in its historical, material and literary context. A core programme focusing on key documents, a flexible programme of individual choice and the master’s thesis supplement one another and make sure that every student receives the best benefit from the many resources Leiden University can offer.

Career

The master’s degree gives access to opportunities for pursuing a research-oriented career. Graduates often find employment as editors, journalists, policy advisors, counsellors or as teachers of religion or philosophy.

On completion of the master’s programme, Dutch-speaking students can follow a teacher education programme which leads to an upper secondary teaching qualification in Religion and Philosophy of Life.

Confessional programmes

Graduates of the specialisation Biblical Studies can continue their education by following one of the confessional programmes (Protestant Church in the Netherlands or the Remonstrant Brotherhood) which prepares for the ministry in a hospital, a home for the elderly, a prison or the army.

Some figures about graduates of Theology and Religious studies

How successful are they in finding a job?

  • 100 % found a job within six months.
  • 86 % found their first job at academic or HBO (higher professional) level.
  • 87 % held a position at academic or HBO level when the study was carried out.

In which sector do they find jobs?

  • Research: 200
  • Teaching: 133
  • Publishing / book sector: 133
  • Business services: 67
  • Government / semi-government: 67
  • Other: 40

What are their main tasks and responsibilities? (%)

  • Providing advice: 27
  • Counselling / coaching: 20
  • Policy-making / preparation: 20
  • Lesgeven / doceren / trainen: 20
  • Researchen: 13

Source: Employment Market Study among Leiden Graduates of Theology and Religious studies (2009, Student Career Service Humanities )

Prof. Zangenberg

Jürgen Zangenberg

“Who was Jesus? Who wrote the Bible? Who will go to hell (and who will not)?

If you really want to know, discover a document that sits at the foundation of Western culture and choose Biblical Studies at Leiden.”