Catholic Studies

Through the study of Catholic Theology as a reference discipline, students specializing in Catholic Religion are equipped to engage with their own questions about religion and Christian faith in a scholarly way. They also gain the theological and educational skills needed for their future professions. These skills include the ability to handle Jewish and Christian traditions responsibly, foundational knowledge of the global history of Christianity, the ability to clearly and relevantly present the core teachings of Christian faith, thoughtful reflection on action-oriented norms, basic knowledge of the most influential religious worldviews and movements—especially major world religions—and criteria-based reflection on religious and church practices with an eye toward their own practical applications.

The program is structured around the following theological fields:

1. Philosophy of Religion and Religious Studies  
2. Biblical and Historical Theology, including: Old Testament, New Testament, Church History  
3. Systematic Theology, including: Fundamental Theology and Dogmatics, Moral Theology and Social Ethics  
4. Practical Theology, including: Pastoral Theology/Kerygmatics, Religious Education, Religious Didactics, Media Didactics, Liturgical Studies  

Another key aspect of the program is the exploration of non-European theologies (intercultural theology). Feminist theological topics are addressed both through dedicated courses and interdisciplinary approaches within the curriculum. For students pursuing teaching credentials, the emphasis on subject-specific didactics is particularly strong. This includes courses explicitly focused on religious and media didactics, as well as the integration of didactic perspectives into subject-specific courses. These courses are designed to not only deepen students' understanding but also prepare them with practical methods and presentation techniques that will benefit their future careers.

This degree program has restricted admission (NC) within the university. Admission is determined through a process where 20% of the spots are allocated based on waiting time and 80% based on the average grade of your higher education entrance qualification. Waiting time refers to the period between completing your high school diploma and applying for the program (excluding any time spent studying).

You can easily apply through Goethe University’s application portal within the specified application deadline. During the online application process, you’ll find out if any supporting documents are required and which ones need to be submitted.