Christian Studies of Science and Society (track of Philosophy (1 year))

A creative, interdisciplinary and international programme

Apart from the many more general reasons why studying in Amsterdam, as a well-preserved, vibrant and beautiful old European city,  is a truly worthwhile experience in itself: an interdisciplinary Christian Studies Master’s Programme is rather unique in the world.

The Christian Studies of Science and Society programme is inspired by a tradition of Christian thinking about science and culture developed within VU University Amsterdam. This tradition, which means taking an open and critical approach to modern-day issues, stretches back to Augustine and many other thinkers within the Christian tradition. Prominent figures within the Dutch academic world, such as Kuyper (the University’s founder), Dooyeweerd, Vollenhoven and modern-day scientists such as Goudzwaard, Schuurman and Wolterstorff, have shaped this approach in their own unique fashion. And we make ample use of insights developed by other Christian-intellectual traditions that have developed and are developing throughout the world.

A real added value of this programme is the diversity of the participants: since the start in 2003 the programme has welcomed people from Japan, Ethiopia, Korea, Russia, the Philippines, Canada, the United States, China, India, Brazil, Egypt, Indonesia, and a number of European countries, including the Netherlands. This mix of nationalities and perspectives makes for an exceptional and stimulating educational setting.

The Christian Studies of Science and Society track of the one-year Philosophy programme is not a theology Master’s but is offered by the Faculty of Philosophy. The emphasis is on the meaning of the Christian faith in an interdisciplinary and international (and therefore intercultural) context. What we offer can be compared to what is often called ‘public theology’, but the Christian Studies programme is open to people from all disciplines, nut just from theology of philosophy.
A broadness which definitely enhances the excitement!