Are you currently looking for a Master’s programme? Read along! In light of the Master’s Week, we are highlighting some interesting programmes. This week, we asked student Daan some questions about Religion, Conflict and Globalisation!

#1 Hi Daan! Can you briefly introduce yourself? - Who are you, what did you study before and why did you decide to study Religion, Conflict and Globalisation?

I am Daan Kampen, a 28 year old Dutch student. Before doing my current Master’s programme, I studied Religious Studies which is a Bachelor’s programme at the same faculty in Groningen, the Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies, or its new name: the Faculty of Religion, Culture, and Society. I decided to study Religion, Conflict, and Globalisation because I have learned that my interests lie in this field through my Bachelor’s programme so I want to pursue a working career in that field. A field that focuses on how these three concepts interact with each other and the consequences of that interaction for humans.

#2 What do you like most about your programme (course content, students or education style)?

In all honesty, I like all three of these things. The course content is great. Not all courses were to my liking but since you can choose your own electives you can shape the programme however you want. This Master’s programme attracts students with all kinds of different backgrounds, academically and culturally. Because of this the discussions in class are more lively than I have experienced in my other studies. It is a great way to learn nuance and common understanding.

#3 What is your thesis about?

My thesis is about the concept of religious violence and how that concept is portrayed in popular media products such as film and television. I chose this topic since I think the discussion on the concept of religious violence is highly intriguing. By analysing popular media products I attempt to gain a better understanding of the view on religious violence in the public domain.

#4 Did you learn something you didn't expect you'd learn during this study?

No, not really. I think I went into this programme knowing quite well what to expect since I already studied at the same faculty with the same professors and broadly the same topics. The new things that interested me most were my fellow students which I mentioned before. The discussions with them, and learning from them, during class were new for me.

#5 What questions do you often get when people hear about your study?

Most people who ask me questions about my Master’s programme seem to think it is an interesting and important study. However, most of the time they do not really understand the link between religion, conflict, and globalisation. Thus, the question I get asked the most is about that. To completely answer this question in this blog is quite hard (I would suggest also studying it), however, the ‘short’ answer in my opinion is: religion is a highly important aspect of human societies, even for people who consider themselves non-believers. Throughout the process of globalisation a couple of major religions have spread across the world, influencing, and interacting with, local religions and culture. This interaction has on many occasions in the past (and in contemporary times) been a source for conflict. As I said there is a lot more to it but this should give you a better picture. 

#6 What would you like to say to students interested in this programme? 

My best advice would be to follow some lectures for a day so you can experience what the study is like for yourself! I would highly recommend the Master’s programme because I enjoyed it a lot.

Hopefully, this interview has given you some insight into the programme. If you want to know more, you can join the presentation during the Master’s week or experience what it’s like to study Religion, Conflict and Globalisation by being a Student for a Day.