Catholic Studies

Through the course of study in the reference discipline Catholic Theology, students are equipped to engage in scholarly exploration of their own questions regarding religion and Christian faith, while also acquiring the theological and religious-pedagogical/didactic competencies necessary for their profession. The competencies to be developed include the ability to handle Jewish and Christian traditions appropriately, foundational knowledge of the history of global Christianity, the capability to present the central tenets of Christian faith in a clear and contemporary manner, action-oriented reflection on norms, basic knowledge of the most historically influential religious worldviews and movements, especially the major world religions, as well as criteria-based reflection on religious and ecclesiastical practices with a focus on personal courses of action. The program is structured into the following theological areas:

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

Another key component of the program involves engagement with non-European theologies (Intercultural Theology). Feminist theological topics are integrated into the curriculum both through dedicated courses and interdisciplinary approaches. The subject-specific didactic component is particularly emphasized within the framework of teacher training programs. In this area, explicitly religious-didactic and media-didactic courses are offered, while the didactic perspective is also consistently incorporated as an integral part of subject-specific courses. Additionally, these courses are designed in such a way that students benefit from diverse presentation and learning formats, preparing them for their future professional activities.

This degree program has no admission restrictions. Applicants for programs without admission limits 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.