Structure and content of the programme

The study of religion offers deep knowledge of the world’s religions and insights into the various aspects of religious life. Religious Studies engages with such aspects from a comparative-systematic perspective, taking the self-understanding of followers of different religions seriously, but does not take sides in regard to the truth of one or the other religious conviction.

The conveyed knowledge about religions is a prerequisite for successful interreligious and intercultural endeavours. This is complemented by encounters with local religions, which are made possible during routinely offered courses in which students can get to know religious communities personally and study them in the field.

In the core curriculum, scholars of religion teach history of religions, comparative-systematic, as well as application-oriented modules in Religious Studies. Courses on religion offered by several other disciplines at the University of Vienna can also be chosen as part of the programme. The wide spectrum of available courses is further supplemented by exchange programmes with Religious Studies departments at various other European universities. In addition to the history of religions, students also learn about the political, philosophical, psychological, sociological, legal, and aesthetic dimensions of religious phenomena.

 Career prospects

Religious Studies scholars are qualified:

• To convey knowledge of religions and intercultural processes in the fields of journalism and adult education
• For the understanding of intercultural processes and active mediation within them, especially in the context of social professions
• For educational and therapeutic work, healthcare chaplaincy, and asylum counselling
• For religion- and culture-focused consulting as well as relevant work in development co-operation, both in domestic and international institutions and NGOs.

Graduates of Religious Studies follow diverse and sometimes surprising career paths beyond the academic milieu. Likewise, an education in Religious Studies might significantly influence individual life plans. Consequently, the department of Religious Studies organises a biannual meeting with graduates to introduce students to different life paths influenced by their degree in Religious Studies, and to inspire them for their own future career development:

QUO VADIS Career prospects for students of Religious Studies