Master Humanistic Studies

The Master Humanistic Studies is a three-year full-time programme of 180 ECTS, combining academic and professional education. Students study contemporary issues concerning humanisation and meanings of life from various scientific disciplines: ethics, social and political theory, social and cultural psychology, pedagogics, educational and organizational theory and theory of religion and worldviews. With the help of essential writings by prominent thinkers, they examine the various social debates that are encountered in the occupational fields listed below. 

Depending on the personal preferences and talents of students, the master's programme offers access to the following occupational fields:

Humanist counselling

Students learn to support people who have difficulty in giving meaning to their lives. Students are prepared for the profession of humanist counsellor within the army, the penitentiary sector and healthcare, under the auspices of the Dutch Humanist League (Humanistisch Verbond). Graduates are also qualified for various other professions, such as a confidential advisor, a career or life course adviser, or a coach.

Education

Students examine questions about humanisation and meaning making at the intersection of education and policy. Students are qualified for an educational profession that focuses on the development of personal identity with a special emphasis on ethical issues, worldview development, critical and democratic citizenship and human rights. Positions include those of trainer, supervisor, lecturer, researcher or policy maker in educational organisations.

Organisation and policy

Students explore issues related to humanisation and meanings of life at the intersection of organisation and policy. They learn to anticipate and contribute to contemporary debates on the social responsibility of organisations and exemplary leadership with regard to integrity and ethics. This also touches on global issues relating to North-South power relations, sustainability and human rights. Students acquire a range of practical skills to prepare them for specific positions, such as consultant, trainer, coach, policy officer or researcher. They are also qualified for national and international positions within governments, political parties, social and denominational organisations or for positions in the media.

Science and research

Talented students are given the opportunity to follow an Honour’s programme by means of the Graduate School, in addition to the regular master's programme of 180 ECTS. This course prepares them for a PhD programme at the University of Humanistic Studies or at another university.

Curriculum

For a full desciption of the courses, you can have a look at the Course Catalogue. In the first semester of the academic year some courses from the master's programme will be offered in English. International students can follow this semester with the Erasmus exchange programme.