Master of theology and religious studies

The study programme has two academic traditions. First, the historical study of the Bible and the Christian tradition, combined with a contextual approach towards how religious faith and practices are lived out locally and globally today. Second, religious studies, which broadens its scope also towards other religious traditions and other religious texts. Common for the approaches is a methodological interest for the study of texts and contexts, the interest for religious encounters, and a focus on contextual and lived religion. Master of theology and religious studies has two specializations,theology and religious studies: Theology specialization is based on a Bachelor of theology with Greek (20 ECTS) and New Testament studies based on Greek. The introductory semester focuses on contextual theology and religious encounters, methodology and philosophy of science. The second and third semesters allow the student to go deeper into either biblical studies or other theological subjects through compulsory and elective courses. Hebrew (20 ECTS) is required for one of the OT electives in third semester. The elective course prepares for the Master’s thesis in the fourth semester. Religious studies specialzation is based on a Bachelor of theology, a Bachelor of religious studies, or a Bachelor of Arts, where theology/religious studies make up a central part of the degree. The introductory semester focuses on contextual theology and religious encounters, methodology and philosophy of science. The second and third semesters allow the student to go deeper into the academic field of religious studies through compulsory and elective courses, thereby preparing for the Master’s thesis in the fourth semester.

Living costsNOK 20,200 a month in Oslo, rent included

kr 242,400

Living costs from SiT estimate from livingcost.org city data (Nov 2026), converted from USD at the ECB reference rate of 30 Oct 2026 (1 EUR = 10.312 NOK, 1.1172 USD)

Who can apply to this programme.

• Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree in theology, and meet our general admission requirements . The degree must include a major that consists of 80 ECTS from a recognised higher education institution, or have an equivalent educational basis approved by VID. Some specializations have specific language requirements. Please refer to the individual requirements in the above text. Download the application form . This must be included in your online application. Please also refer to our general admission requirements and our application guidelines .

Taught in English.

Prepare for and book LanguageCert Academic with SIT Connect

A typical checklist for this degree level. Your advisor gives you the final list.

The central catalogue records this programme as accredited.