Asian Languages and Cultures
Learn to speak and write the languages of two of the world's economic superpowers—China and Japan—or take Asian Studies and understand Asia as a whole.
Subjects
- Asian Studies
- Chinese
- Japanese
Study of Religion –
Religion plays a major role in human experience, society, and culture. Learn about the nature and history of religions, and the role they play in the world we live in today.
Religions shape societies, politics, laws, and economies around the globe and impact deeply upon people’s inner ethical and experiential landscapes. Study religion at Victoria University of Wellington and open your mind to the diversity and vitality of religions across the world.
Today's key issues
Most people in the world identify as having some kind of religion, whether it's a so-called 'world religion' like Islam, Buddhism, or Christianity, or one of a host of other faiths and practices. And even among people who are not religious, many consider themselves to be 'spiritual'.
84%
Percentage of the world population that identifies as religious. PEW Research Centre.
More and more, politicians and leaders recognise the importance of understanding religion. From changing global political and economic contexts, to broad-ranging social and ethical challenges, to simply learning how to appreciate our neighbours down the street, solid religious literacy is increasingly necessary to navigate the contemporary world.
Study of Religion uses a variety of methods and approaches to learn about the role of religion in today's world. You'll learn about a range of beliefs and practices, and gain an understanding of the importance of religion in our diverse world.
The Study of Religion major allows you to confront conflicting points of view and to honour these points of view while trying to analyse them in a meaningful way.
Full storyAnushka Perinpanayagam
Master of Arts in Study of Religion
Universal skills
Learn to think critically and creatively, build reasoned, evidence-based arguments, and develop the ability to understand many sides of a debate. Gain skills in effective writing, communication, independent research, and leadership.
Globally ranked
This programme is ranked in the top 100 universities worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
The QS World University Rankings is an annual global publication that gives overall rankings and subject rankings for more than 1,500 universities worldwide.
Study of Religion has helped me understand society in a new and deeper way. It has changed the way I approach the rest of my degree as well as the world outside the campus gates.
Full storyCaitlin Walker
Bachelor of Arts student in Study of Religion.
Learn from the best
You'll learn from scholars whose research is at the cutting edge of their field. Our lecturers have received prestigious Marsden Fund grants, and won major overseas funding from the US, Singapore, and elsewhere. Current research topics include mindfulness and contemporary spiritualties, the interplay between religion and development, peacemaking and religious faith in New Zealand, and conversion and deconversion.
After you graduate
Your understanding of the diversity of human beliefs and practices will give you an edge in our increasingly global world. Use this edge in business, commerce or the creative arts. Work for the government as a researcher or policy analyst, become a project manager or journalist, or work for a humanitarian non-governmental organisation.
Wellington is New Zealand's creative capital, home to museums, galleries and cafés, and the country's most important libraries and archives. It's also the site of Old St Paul's—a unique colonial gothic cathedral built in 1866 entirely out of native timber.
Support for students
Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington is a welcoming place with great student support. There are all sorts of resources available to help you get the best out of your time at university.
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