Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Overview

Conflicting Identities in Early Christianity is a specialized track within the Theology and Religious Studies (MA) program at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. This track focuses on how early Christian communities navigated issues of identity, authority, and belonging, particularly in contexts marked by disagreement, cultural shifts, and religious diversity.

Through a combination of academic study and research training, you will gain the skills necessary to analyze religious conflicts and identity formation, with applications in various fields such as peace and conflict studies, interreligious dialogue, heritage management, and policy development.

What you'll study

The MA program is structured around specific tracks. In the Conflicting Identities in Early Christianity track, you will integrate core academic training with courses tailored to this area of study.

• Track-focused coursework: Engage with modules that explore early Christian identity formation, boundary-making, and interpretive strategies within their historical contexts.
• Research and methods: Receive training in academic research skills, critical reading, and constructing scholarly arguments.
• Seminars and guided study: Participate in discussion-based learning utilizing primary sources and contemporary scholarship.
• Capstone / thesis: Complete a significant final research component, typically a thesis, on an approved topic relevant to the track.

Related tracks in the same MA include:

• Interreligious Studies (English)
• Peace, Trauma and Religion (English)
• Spiritual Care (Dutch)
• Exploring a Discipline (English; e.g., Biblical Studies, Islam in the West, Buddhism, Digital Humanities)

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited research university, which includes a minimum of three full years of academic study, totaling at least 180 ECTS or an equivalent qualification.

If your Bachelor's degree is in Theology or Religious Studies from an international institution, your admission will be subject to an assessment by the admissions board.

For candidates with a Bachelor's degree in another field, you may still apply if your degree is from a research-oriented university. Prior to the start of the academic year, you might be invited to an intake with the coordinator to discuss any necessary theological background knowledge.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Conflicting Identities in Early Christianity track are well-prepared for diverse career paths. Potential opportunities include roles in academic research, interfaith organizations, cultural heritage institutions, and various positions within policy-making bodies that address issues of religious conflict and dialogue. The skills developed in this program also facilitate careers in education, social work, and community outreach focused on fostering understanding among different faith communities.