Course content

The course serves as a preparation for the theoretical part of the master's thesis. Central questions are: What do I need to accomplish a research project? What does a scientific project consist of? The focus on theory is to ensure a conscious choice of the perspective to be employed in specific projects.

Learning outcome

According to the course curriculum, a candidate who passes this course is expected to have the following learning outcome (defined as knowledge, skills and general competence)

Knowledge

The candidate has attained

• knowledge of the central research questions of theory in religious studies
• knowledge of the outcome of relevant research in religious studies
• knowledge of designing research projects in religious studies
• knowledge of the interdependency between the religious practice and cultural life
• knowledge of the ethical challenges facing research concerning religion

Skills

The candidate has acquired skills to

• analyse and assess theoretical accounts in religious studies
• analyse and assess research outcome of religious studies
• independently design research projects in religious studies
• produce academic accounts of the relationship between religion and culture
• exert ethical assessment on research accounts within religious studies

General competence

The candidate has

• competence in designing research projects and questions related to scientific requirements
• experience in planning and executing a written essay with a defined length through successive stages

Learning methods and activities

The instruction consists of lectures and seminars with an emphasis on the latter.

Specific conditions

Required previous knowledge

Requires admission to the Master's programme in Religious Studies.

Course materials

The required reading list will be available at the beginning of the semester.

Credit reductions