Theology and Religious Studies - Peace, Trauma and Religion
The Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) offers a one-year, full-time Master's program in Theology and Religious Studies – Peace, Trauma and Religion. This program explores the intersections between religion, conflict, and healing, focusing on the role of faith traditions in both perpetuating and resolving trauma. Students will engage with topics such as religious responses to violence, the role of spirituality in trauma recovery, and the use of religious narratives in peacebuilding. The program combines theoretical study with practical approaches to understanding how religion can both heal and hurt in times of conflict.
Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in conflict resolution, trauma counseling, and peace studies. VU Amsterdam offers students access to expert faculty, interdisciplinary resources, and opportunities for fieldwork and research in conflict zones, providing a deep understanding of the complex ways in which religion shapes and is shaped by peace and trauma.
Key Facts
Key Facts
- Program Title: Theology and Religious Studies - Peace, Trauma and Religion
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 June 2026
- Location: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam), Netherlands
- Field of Study: Theology and Religious Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Peace, Trauma, and Religion
- Introduction to Peace Studies and Religious Conflict
- Theories of Trauma and Healing in Religious Contexts
- Research Methods in Peace and Trauma Studies
Semester 2 – Advanced Peace, Trauma, and Religion
- The Role of Religion in Conflict Resolution
- Trauma Healing and Religious Interventions
- Seminar: Religion and Peacebuilding in the Modern World
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Peace, Trauma, and Religion Master’s program can pursue careers in conflict resolution, international development, and humanitarian work. With a deep understanding of the interplay between religion, conflict, and trauma, graduates can work as peacebuilding practitioners, human rights advocates, trauma counselors, or researchers. The program’s interdisciplinary approach opens up career opportunities in NGOs, international organizations, and academic research, addressing the intersection of religion, conflict, and global peace efforts.
Why Choose This Program
This program explores the relationship between religion, conflict, and trauma, equipping students with the skills to analyze and address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Students will gain expertise in conflict resolution, religious studies, and trauma theory, preparing them for careers in peacebuilding, humanitarian efforts, and social justice. The program’s focus on real-world applications ensures that graduates are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to peace efforts in conflict-affected regions.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +31 20 598 5555
Email: internationalstudents@vu.nl
Address: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam), De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HV Amsterdam, Netherlands
