Research Master: Master of Advanced Studies in Theology and Religion
Leuven, Belgium
DURATION
2 Years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time, Part time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Request application deadline
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2025
TUITION FEES
EUR 1,651 *
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* non-EEA fee
Introduction
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Today’s theology students are faced with the momentous task of making relevant contributions to modern culture. This requires a thorough and interdisciplinary academic training. The two-year Research Master's equips students to function as experts in Church and society and prepares them for further research specifically oriented toward the Doctoral Program in Theology.
The goal of the master's is to facilitate independent academic research in the domains of theology and religious studies. The chosen major is reinforced with a highly specific research curriculum and a research master’s thesis, preparing students for continued research at the doctoral level. Students receive intensive research skills training and are encouraged to combine the in-depth research of their thesis subject with an all-round theological formation. Upon successful completion of their studies, they have received a broad formation, rather than training specializing exclusively in one area.
Curriculum
- Six courses of the truncus communis and five electives
- A research master’s thesis: students write a thesis in two years’ time, presenting the results of their original research. The thesis must provide a structured and coherent survey of the issue while including an evaluation of research already undertaken and demonstrating evidence of an awareness of problems related to the topic.
- Chosen major : six major courses
Admissions
Program delivery
The courses are taught in English.
Program Outcome
- Credits: 120 ECTS
- Degree Type: Master
- Specifications: Master of Arts
Program Tuition Fee
Why study at KU Leuven
What sets us apart as a university?
A highly-ranked university
KU Leuven is among the best 100 universities in the world according to both Times Higher Education World Rankings and QS World University Rankings. All of KU Leuven’s disciplines proudly belong to the top 100 of their field.
Research-based education
Education at KU Leuven is research-based, which means students will learn from the same professors who are performing the ground-breaking research you read about in the press. New insights are instantly integrated into classes and students are encouraged to perform their research. In our FabLab, students can use several high-tech machines to create whatever they want – all free of charge.
Affordable tuition fees
Higher education is highly valued in Belgium and therefore subsidised by the government. This allows KU Leuven to keep tuition fees relatively low, which gives you a price/quality ratio very few top-100 universities can match. We take pride in keeping our programs as accessible as possible to allow the brightest students from around the globe to join our courses.
International student life with respect for diversity
According to Times Higher Education, KU Leuven is in the top 50 of most international universities worldwide with staff and students from over 150 different nationalities. For all our international students, the Pangaea student center is their home away from home. Our university also strives for diversity and inclusion and wants to work together on a pact for more respect.
Program Leaders
Scholarships and Funding
Several scholarship options are available. Please visit the university website for more information.
Info Sessions
KU Leuven combines the best of both worlds by hosting both online and live info sessions. You choose how, where and when to get your information in your search for the right program
Rankings
KU Leuven is among the best 100 universities in the world according to both Times Higher Education World Rankings and QS World University Rankings. KU Leuven’s disciplines proudly belong to the top 100 of their field. Furthermore, KU Leuven was ranked by Reuters as the most innovative university in Europe in 2016.
Accreditations
Gallery
Career Opportunities
The research master’s program prepares you for admission to the Doctoral program in Theology, but also for a variety of careers in sectors including teaching in secondary and higher education, business, publishing, academia, the media, the socio-cultural sector, and various domains of pastoral care. You will also develop skills that are valued by a large number of employers. These include research, analytical and presentation skills, critical thinking, organizational and time management skills, teamwork, and communication and writing skills. Many graduates use these skills while pursuing an international career as experts in the Church and society.