Course content and focus areas
The master's program in Philosophy of Religion is designed for graduates with a bachelor's degree in philosophy, Protestant and Catholic theology, religious studies, or other professionally qualifying degree programs (provided they have prior knowledge of philosophy) who wish to pursue academic specialization in the branch of Philosophy of Religion. As a research-oriented program, it ensures comprehensive academic engagement with genuinely philosophical questions about religion from both historical and, especially, systematic perspectives. Religious phenomena and traditions (from Christianity as well as other religions) are examined based on philosophical standards of rationality. This process is grounded in discussions of key issues in theoretical and practical philosophy, as well as in exemplary engagement with topics from theology and religious studies. The program is therefore interdisciplinary in nature. Additionally, it is distinguished by its incorporation of both continental philosophy approaches and those of analytical philosophy, which dominate in the Anglo-American world.
In its initial phase, the master's program in Philosophy of Religion develops the ability to precisely analyze, present, and discuss concepts and reasoning patterns within Philosophy of Religion. A second phase focuses on the competence to develop and defend one's own academic positions. By imparting these key skills, the program prepares students for various fields of qualified professional activity. Graduates are equipped to take on topic-specific educational tasks in higher education institutions and adult education. At the same time, they have access to roles outside their field of study in business and society, where coherent assessment of complex issues in intercultural and multireligious social contexts is required.