Protestant Theology
Protestant Theology (Magister Theologiae)
The degree program in Protestant Theology is both interesting and diverse. In this degree program, you can expect not only individual subjects, but a whole world of knowledge that includes everything from the Old and New Testaments, Church History, and Systematic Theology to Practical Theology and Religious Studies. You can expect a varied program with an interdisciplinary focus. At FAU, you can also study subjects such as Christian Archeology, History and Theology of the Christian East, Christian Media Communication, Media Ethics and Digital Theology and Church Music, which are subjects you won’t find at every university.
- Degree
- Magister Theologiae
- Duration of studies in semester
- 10
- Start of degree program
- Summer semester, Winter semester
- Study location
- Erlangen
- Number of students
- 1-50
- Subject group
- Language and Cultural Studies, Theology
- Teaching language
- completely in German
- Admission Requirements
- No Admissions Restrictions
What is the degree program about?
Due to the wide range of topics and disciplines it covers, Protestant Theology is offered as a single-subject degree only without the option of taking a second subject. A Bachelor’s degree is not practicable and is therefore not offered. The degree program in Protestant Theology offers the following qualifications:
- Kirchliches Examen
- Magister/Magistra Theologiae (Mag.theol.)
If you aim to become a pastor by completing what’s known as the Kirchliches Examen, in order to receive your degree and start your training as a pastor (Vikariat) you must usually take a specific theological examination set by the church in your state (Theologische Aufnahmeprüfung in Bavaria).
The Magister/Magistra Theologiae is similar in content to the Kirchliches Examen. This degree is intended for students who do not aim to become pastors at state churches where a specific theological examination is required (such as members of free churches or non-German citizens).
Many different subjects are part of theology, such as the Old Testament, the New Testament, church history, systematic theology, practical theology (including teaching religious education) and religious studies. FAU’s School of Theology also offers other interesting subjects that you will not find at all universities, including Christian Archaeology, History and Theology of the Christian East, Christian Media Communication, Media Ethics and Digital Theology and Church Music. The interplay of the various disciplines makes degree program in theology an immensely interesting course of study.
As a general rule you must study the whole spectrum of theology, regardless of the type of degree. You have the opportunity to choose your own specializations during the degree program, for example by getting involved in current research or spending time studying abroad on a scholarship. Under the current framework conditions, the degree program theology offers a great deal of freedom for tailoring your studies according to your interests.
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The degree program comprises three parts. In the modules of the first part of the degree program (4 semesters), students gain an overview of the various topics in theology. The language skills required can be acquired alongside the degree program if necessary. The first part of the degree program is completed by passing the intermediate examination.
During the second part of the degree program (4 semesters), students intensify their knowledge of theology in advanced modules and can choose specializations according to their own interests.
The modules of the integration and examination phase (2 semesters) serve as preparation for the final degree examinations. -
- An interest in working with texts
- A willingness to learn old languages (Latin, Ancient Greek and Hebrew)
- A willingness to be open to new things, to think critically about the Christian faith and to develop the ability to come to conclusions in discussion with others
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Students can look forward to a very well equipped department that offers an extremely wide range of subjects and excellent study conditions.
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Most theology students aim to become pastors. However, studying protestant theology gives you such a broad range of skills that you may also work in other areas with a social or cultural aspect. Graduates of Protestant Theology work
- in churches and church-run organisations (e.g. in advisory services)
- as lecturers in research and teaching
- in education as a whole (from early years to adult education)
- as advisors in politics or industry
- in publishing and journalism
- in public relations
- in human resources
In addition to their academic skills, theology graduates are often in demand due to their personal, social and communication skills.
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- Admission requirements (first semester)
- No Admissions Restrictions
- Application deadline winter semester
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30.09.
- Application deadline summer semester
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30.03.
Language skills
- German language skills for international applicants
- DSH 2 or equivalent
- General language skills
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Ancient Hebrew, Ancient Greek, Latin.
Language skills that are still missing at the time of enrollment can be acquired during the course of study.
- Details and notes
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The application deadline for international applicants is July 15th for the winter semester and January 15th for the summer semester.
Do you need help or more information?
Our Student Advice and Career Service (IBZ) is the central point of contact for all questions about studying and starting a degree programme. Our Student Service Centres and subject advisors support you in planning your studies.