Religion has always been an integral part of human societies, attempting to answer questions of how the world came into being and how and why the world is organised in the way it is. Religion addresses questions of what the place of humans is in the universe and what the meaning of life is. Religion is central part of many people’s identities and guides their choices in their everyday life and social relationships. Religion is also a powerful force that influences society, the political life locally, nationally and globally.

As a student of history of religions, you will meet a wide range of religious traditions from different parts of the world both historical and extant. We study Judaism, Christianity and Islam besides Asian religions, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Daoism and Shinto. The ancient religions of Greece and Rome, as well as Old Norse religion are explored together with new religious movements.

The studies focus on the historical development of these religions, the variety of their ideas and practices as well as their significance for the individual, society and culture. You will become acquainted with institutions, ideas and rituals of the great religious traditions but even religion as it is lived by ordinary people in their everyday lives. Since we view religion as a historical, cultural and social phenomenon we will study it from historical, anthropological, psychological and sociological perspectives.

The History of Religions is an interdisciplinary field involving both the arts and social sciences. Therefore the History of Religions provides the student with knowledge and skills beyond its own field. Religious studies is highly useful for teachers, journalists, librarians, museum curators, aid workers or for those working with migration issues. It is also possible to act as a consultant in religious issues for different authorities and enterprises.

For a bachelor’s degree in History of Religions you can choose to study individual courses or join one of the bachelor’s programmes listed under Educations within the subject.

The bachelor’s degree in History of Religions is only offered in Swedish.

Learn more about Swedish language qualification

A master’s degree in History of Religions can only be obtained through enrolment in one of the programmes listed under Educations within the subject.

More information about degrees at Stockholm University

The section of History of Religions possesses research competence within the following fields: The ancient religions of Europe, including religions of ancient Greece and Rome, pre-Christian religions in the north (Old Norse, Finnish and Saami Religions); b) New Religions and Western Esoterism; c) Asian religions, particularly Buddhism and Hinduism, and d) Islam and Christianity.