Program Overview

Introduction to the Program

The "Fachjournalismus Religion" program is a unique, nationwide further education opportunity offered by the Excellence Cluster "Religion and Politics" at the University of Münster, in cooperation with the ifp Catholic Journalist School. This program aims to qualify media professionals for a well-founded and critical reporting on religious affiliations and conflicts in pluralistic societies.

Program Description

The part-time program, which started in January 2025 in Berlin, is designed for professionals from politics, culture, or specialist editorial offices. It features lectures by researchers from the Excellence Cluster, members of religious and ideological communities, and religious journalists. The program also includes visits to religious sites such as synagogues, churches, mosques, and temples, as well as insights into Jewish, Christian, and Muslim life today.

Modules and Content

The program consists of five modules, each held in a different city: Berlin, Münster, Frankfurt am Main, Cologne, and Munich. The modules cover a range of topics, including:

• Modul 1: Religion, Politics, Law - This module focuses on the unhindered practice of religion, exploring the political, legal, and societal aspects of religious freedom.
• Modul 2: Ideological Plurality - Participants delve into the world of religious and ideological diversity, learning about the complexities of coexistence and the challenges of pluralistic societies.
• Modul 3: Belonging or Exclusion - This module examines the lives of religious minorities in Germany, discussing issues of belonging, exclusion, and the search for identity.
• Modul 4: We and the Others - Religious conflicts and their political consequences are the central theme, exploring how religious differences can lead to conflict and how these can be managed.
• Modul 5: Ideological Movements and Conspiracy Theories - The final module looks at the impact of digital modernity on religion, including the spread of ideological movements and conspiracy theories.

Referents and Partners

The program features a diverse range of referents, including professors, journalists, and religious leaders. Partners include the ifp Catholic Journalist School and the Excellence Cluster "Religion and Politics" at the University of Münster, with funding from the ifp Förderverein (Fifp).

Participation and Fees

The participation fee for all five modules, including accommodation and meals at each venue, is 3,950.00 (with a discounted rate of 3,800.00). The application deadline is October 1, 2024.

Conclusion

The "Fachjournalismus Religion" program offers a comprehensive and unique educational experience for media professionals, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to report on religious issues in a nuanced and informed manner. By exploring the complexities of religious diversity and conflict, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the role of religion in modern societies and how to approach these topics with sensitivity and professionalism.