You are able to describe theories on relation between religion and state, and can apply empirical methods in policy development studies.

You have initial skills to implement research findings on religious issues in the public and pivate sector.

Due to the introduction of neo-liberal politics and the waning of welfare states there is a new space for religious institutions to offer public services. However, partnership between governments and religious instititions raise policy issues on both sides. To what extent can national or local governments use and finance religious or faith-based organisations (churches, mosques, temples) in safeguarding public services without violation the separation of religion and state? To what extent can religious or faith-based organisations implement government policies without becoming uncritical continuations of government policies? Is religion really returning to the public domain, and if it does, in what sense? We will also study theories and methods of policy sciences that can be used by scholars of religion to conduct policy research on religious issues. One of the main topics of this course is the relationship between religion and state (governance), and how this relationship is perceived as ideal.