KU LEUVEN · BELGIUM
Master of Theology and Religious Studies
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 60 ECTSCredits
- 1432Founding year of the faculty
- Internationally respectedTheological library ranking
- One of Europe's highest-rankedUniversity ranking
- Taught in EnglishLanguage of instruction
This Master's programme builds upon your foundational knowledge in Theology or Religious Studies, whether gained at KU Leuven or elsewhere. It is designed to deepen your understanding and prepare you for independent research within the field. The curriculum also aims to equip you to serve as an expert in church and societal contexts. You can choose to specialise in one of the faculty's five research areas: Biblical Studies, Systematic Theology and the Study of Religions, Theological and Comparative Ethics, History of Church and Theology, or Pastoral and Empirical Theology. The programme encourages an interdisciplinary approach to studying the Christian faith within diverse cultural and religious settings. The faculty boasts a rich history of theological education dating back to 1432 and offers access to one of the world's foremost theological libraries, housing over 1.3 million volumes and extensive research facilities. The faculty fosters an international environment, attracting students from around the globe, enriching the learning experience with intercultural perspectives. The programme can be pursued on a full-time or part-time basis.
Curriculum
The programme consists of 60 ECTS credits and offers opportunities for specialisation through a Master's thesis in one of the five research disciplines. The curriculum also includes general courses focused on interdisciplinary academic investigation.
- Year 1
- Year 2
Careers
A degree in Theology and Religious Studies equips graduates with valuable skills applicable to a wide range of careers. Beyond roles directly related to theology and religious studies, graduates are sought after in sectors requiring strong research, analytical, communication, and organizational abilities.
- Teaching (secondary and higher education)
- Publishing
- Media
- Academic research
- Pastoral care
- International careers as experts in church and society
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Master of Theology and Religious Studies programme?
- You need a prior Bachelor's degree in Theology or Religious Studies, or an equivalent. Significant pastoral experience may also be considered. You must also meet the English language proficiency requirements, such as IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 79, unless your previous degree was obtained in an English-speaking country.
- How much does the Master of Theology and Religious Studies programme cost?
- KU Leuven tuition fees are generally affordable due to government financing. The exact tuition fee depends on your programme and nationality, and can be found using the tuition fee calculator on the university website. Information on living costs is also available under 'Course costs'.
- What is the duration of the Master of Theology and Religious Studies programme?
- The programme consists of 60 ECTS credits and can be pursued on a full-time or part-time basis. The curriculum is structured over two years.
- In what language is the Master of Theology and Religious Studies programme taught?
- The Master of Theology and Religious Studies programme is taught in English.
- What are the application deadlines for the Master of Theology and Religious Studies programme?
- The application window opens on October 16, 2025, for the 2026-2027 academic year. The deadline for non-EEA citizens is March 1, 2026, and for EEA citizens and non-EEA citizens with a Belgian residence permit, it is June 1, 2026.
- What are the career prospects after completing the Master of Theology and Religious Studies programme?
- Graduates are equipped for roles in teaching, publishing, media, academic research, and pastoral care. The programme also prepares you to serve as an expert in church and societal contexts.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degreeA prior Bachelor's degree in Theology or Religious Studies, or equivalent, is required. Students may also be considered if they have significant pastoral experience and seek to deepen their theoretical insights.
IELTS Academic6.5 overall
TOEFL iBT79 overall
Cambridge English (CAE/CPE)C1 or C2
ITACEC1 or C2 (must be taken in Belgium)
Applicants who have not obtained their previous degree at a Flemish Community institution must apply via the Admissions office. Specific admission requirements, including diploma and language qualifications, must be checked. Only through the application process can eligibility be confirmed. An exemption from submitting an English proficiency test is granted only if the previous diploma was obtained in Australia, English-speaking Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, or the United States of America.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are determined by programme and nationality. Use the tuition fee calculator for exact amounts.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees are determined by programme and nationality. Use the tuition fee calculator for exact amounts.
LivingInformation on living costs can be found under 'Course costs'.
KU Leuven tuition fees are generally more affordable due to government financing. The exact fee can be found using the tuition fee calculator. Payment is due within two weeks of receiving the invoice; cash and credit card payments are not accepted.
How to apply
1. Check Admission RequirementsVerify the specific diploma and language requirements for the Master of Theology and Religious Studies programme. Consult the official admission requirements online.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, including previous academic transcripts, diplomas, and English proficiency test results.
3. Submit ApplicationApply through the KU Leuven Admissions office. Ensure your application is submitted within the specified application windows.
4. Await DecisionThe Admissions office will review your application. Confirmation of admission is contingent on meeting all requirements.
5. Registration and PaymentUpon admission, you will receive an invoice for tuition fees, payable within two weeks. Payment cannot be made by cash or credit card.
Scholarships
KU Leuven ScholarshipsVaries
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Master of Theology and Religious Studies programme?
+
You need a prior Bachelor's degree in Theology or Religious Studies, or an equivalent. Significant pastoral experience may also be considered. You must also meet the English language proficiency requirements, such as IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 79, unless your previous degree was obtained in an English-speaking country.
How much does the Master of Theology and Religious Studies programme cost?
+
KU Leuven tuition fees are generally affordable due to government financing. The exact tuition fee depends on your programme and nationality, and can be found using the tuition fee calculator on the university website. Information on living costs is also available under 'Course costs'.
What is the duration of the Master of Theology and Religious Studies programme?
+
The programme consists of 60 ECTS credits and can be pursued on a full-time or part-time basis. The curriculum is structured over two years.
In what language is the Master of Theology and Religious Studies programme taught?
+
The Master of Theology and Religious Studies programme is taught in English.
What are the application deadlines for the Master of Theology and Religious Studies programme?
+
The application window opens on October 16, 2025, for the 2026-2027 academic year. The deadline for non-EEA citizens is March 1, 2026, and for EEA citizens and non-EEA citizens with a Belgian residence permit, it is June 1, 2026.
What are the career prospects after completing the Master of Theology and Religious Studies programme?
+
Graduates are equipped for roles in teaching, publishing, media, academic research, and pastoral care. The programme also prepares you to serve as an expert in church and societal contexts.