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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 equips students to function as experts in Church and society and prepares them for further research specifically oriented towards the Doctoral Programme in Theology.
The goal of the Master of Advanced Studies in Theology and Religion 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 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 a training specialising exclusively in one area.
The programme comprises the following:
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
Programme overview
Main Subject
Theology, Divinity and Religious Studies
Degree
MA
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
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 equips students to function as experts in Church and society and prepares them for further research specifically oriented towards the Doctoral Programme in Theology.
The goal of the Master of Advanced Studies in Theology and Religion 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 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 a training specialising exclusively in one area.
The programme comprises the following:
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.
Students with a degree obtained at an institution of the Flemish Community:
Direct admission
On the basis of the following degrees, or similar degrees, obtained at an institution of the Flemish Community:
Bachelor of Theology and Religious Studies (Leuven)
Master of Theology and Religious Studies (Leuven)
Students with a degree obtained at an institution outside the Flemish Community:
Language requirements Prospective students who obtained an English bachelor's degree at the faculty or who are citizens of Australia, English-speaking Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK or the United States of America, speaking English as their mother tongue, are not required to submit a certificate demonstrating their English knowledge. All prospective students (regardless of their background) are allowed to submit an application file without including a TOEFL/IELTS test. However, prospective students must submit an English motivation letter, CV and writing sample. The faculty admissions committee will assess the application file without TOEFL/IELTS test and decide whether the student will be admitted based on the submitted file or whether the student has to present a TOEFL/IELTS Academic certificate after all. Additional requirements Three letters of recommendation are required. Each letter has to be written by an academic person who is familiar with the candidate's academic work and ambitions. Clerics and religious must include a letter from their Bishop or Provincial Superior stating permission to study in Leuven and with an indication of the student's tasks after graduation in Leuven.
01 Mar 2026
2 Years
Sep
International
3,093 EUR
Scholarships
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Research Master: Master of Advanced Studies in Theology and Religion
KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
# 15QS Subject Rankings
24 monthsProgramme duration
3,093 EURTuition Fee/year
01 Mar, 2026Application Deadline
Programme overview
Main Subject
Theology, Divinity and Religious Studies
Degree
MA
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
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 equips students to function as experts in Church and society and prepares them for further research specifically oriented towards the Doctoral Programme in Theology.
The goal of the Master of Advanced Studies in Theology and Religion 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 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 a training specialising exclusively in one area.
The programme comprises the following:
Programme overview
Main Subject
Theology, Divinity and Religious Studies
Degree
MA
Study Level
Masters
Study Mode
On Campus
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 equips students to function as experts in Church and society and prepares them for further research specifically oriented towards the Doctoral Programme in Theology.
The goal of the Master of Advanced Studies in Theology and Religion 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 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 a training specialising exclusively in one area.
The programme comprises the following:
Brochures
Admission Requirements
Students with a degree obtained at an institution of the Flemish Community:
Direct admission
On the basis of the following degrees, or similar degrees, obtained at an institution of the Flemish Community:
Students with a degree obtained at an institution outside the Flemish Community:
Language requirements Prospective students who obtained an English bachelor's degree at the faculty or who are citizens of Australia, English-speaking Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK or the United States of America, speaking English as their mother tongue, are not required to submit a certificate demonstrating their English knowledge. All prospective students (regardless of their background) are allowed to submit an application file without including a TOEFL/IELTS test. However, prospective students must submit an English motivation letter, CV and writing sample. The faculty admissions committee will assess the application file without TOEFL/IELTS test and decide whether the student will be admitted based on the submitted file or whether the student has to present a TOEFL/IELTS Academic certificate after all.Additional requirements Three letters of recommendation are required. Each letter has to be written by an academic person who is familiar with the candidate's academic work and ambitions. Clerics and religious must include a letter from their Bishop or Provincial Superior stating permission to study in Leuven and with an indication of the student's tasks after graduation in Leuven.
International
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
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Looking for a fully-funded scholarship to see you into university? Find out how to boost your chances of getting one.
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