Religion is an essential part of many people's lives. Even in secular societies, religions continue to thrive. In Germany, the two major Christian denominations remain the largest organizations and the most significant employers after the state. They are also vital for understanding the Christian-Jewish foundations of the Western world. Additionally, Islam is emerging as a new religion in Germany, advocating for societal participation and fostering new discussions.
In the Catholic Theology course, you will learn to engage with these phenomena and develop future opportunities for yourself and others in a religiously plural society. You will become familiar with theological content, methods, academic tools, and challenges. You will gain the capability to work with Christian and non-Christian religious traditions, their interpretation, and their analysis. This will give you the chance to explore Christian and other worldviews and critically reflect on them, enabling you to competently and responsibly assess religious and contemporary issues.
The Faculty of Catholic Theology at Goethe University stands out for four key aspects:
Religious studies and religious philosophy are represented with dedicated professorships within the department. This allows students to explore non-Christian religions and philosophical questions about religion from both ecumenical and interreligious perspectives.
As part of the "Theology Interculturally" program, guest professors from around the world deliver lectures. This gives students the opportunity to experience theology in diverse contexts and enhances their intercultural competence. Through the integration of practical theology and media didactics within a single professorship, the department addresses technological and societal developments in the age of smartphones and big data, offering an innovative, media-supported range of courses that extend into professional practice.
The orientation course for students is highly valued. This foundational course serves as an "initiation" into the department. Students are introduced to the disciplines of Catholic Theology, receive an introduction to academic work, and experience a sense of community through social events.