Catholic Studies

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

The program is organized into the following theological fields:

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

Another key component of the program is engagement with non-European theologies (Intercultural Theology). Feminist theological topics are addressed both through dedicated courses and interdisciplinary perspectives, ensuring they have a meaningful place in the curriculum. The didactic component is particularly emphasized in teacher training programs. In this area, students benefit from courses specifically focused on religious didactics and media didactics, as well as from the integration of didactic perspectives into subject-specific courses. These courses are designed and delivered in ways that allow students to learn from diverse presentation and teaching methods, preparing them for their future professional roles.

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.