Islamic Studies

The Islamic religion study component (IR for short) is designed to prepare future teachers pursuing teaching degrees for their practical and pedagogical roles as subject instructors of Islamic religious education (IRE) in public schools. This preparation is achieved through engagement with the academic framework of Islamic theological studies, educational theories related to Islam, and the subject-specific didactics of Islamic Religious Education.

Students gain knowledge and skills in areas such as the systematic and foundational research of Islamic theological studies, the origins and interpretation of Islamic religious texts, as well as the study of Islam in its phenomenological, historical, social, philosophical, and educational contexts. They are equipped to critically reflect on, evaluate, and effectively design teaching and learning processes that address Islam as represented in traditional teachings and contemporary Muslim cultures, using scholarly methods and didactic strategies.

This field of study comes with unique expectations for future teachers, particularly regarding their personal religious self-positioning as educators. As such, the program emphasizes countering tendencies like one-sided religious absolutism, cultural essentialism, rigid historical narratives, and the uncritical acceptance of theological assumptions. Instead, it encourages flexible, multi-layered thinking about religion and provides methodological tools to foster this reflective approach across different levels of analysis.

This degree program has no admission restrictions. Applicants for programs without admission restrictions can enroll directly through the online application. If any additional documentation is required for your application, you'll be informed at the end of the online application process.

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.