Protestant Theology (Parish / Mag.theol.)
Protestant Theology (Parish / Mag.theol.) (Magister Theologiae)
Discover the diversity of theology! In the Protestant Theology degree program, you can expect not only individual subjects, but a whole world of knowledge. From Old and New Testament to Church History, Systematic Theology to Practical Theology and Religious Studies – all these disciplines work together. At the University of Erlangen, you can also expect unique subjects such as Christian Archaeology, History and Theology of the Christian East, Christian Journalism and Church Music.
- 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?
Protestant Theology is studied as a single-subject program, i.e. without a second subject, due to the thematic breadth and the various disciplines. A bachelor’s degree, unlike other degree programs, is not practical and is therefore not offered. The theology program offers the following degree options.
- Ecclesiastical Examination
- Magister/Magistra Theologiae (Mag.theol.)
With the professional goal of becoming a pastor, you usually have to take the first theological exam (the so-called ecclesiastical exam) of the respective state church (in Bavaria: „Theologische Aufnahmeprüfung“) to complete your studies in Protestant Theology and as a prerequisite for acceptance into the church preparatory service (Vikariat).
The degree with the academic degree Magister/Magistra Theologiae (Mag.theol.) is comparable to the ecclesiastical exam in its requirements. The degree program is intended for students who do not aspire to serve in a regional church with its own theological examination system (including members of free churches, students from abroad).
In theology, a whole range of subjects work together: First of all, these include Old Testament, New Testament, Church History, Systematic Theology, Practical Theology (including religious education/subject didactics) and Religious Studies. In addition, the Department of Theology in Erlangen is home to other interesting subjects that are not found at every university: Christian Archaeology, History and Theology of the Christian East, Media Communications, Media Ethics and Digital Theology, and Church Music. The interplay of the various disciplines makes the study of theology an immensely interesting course of study.
In principle, you study theology in its entire breadth for all degrees. However, you have the opportunity to set different emphases in your studies, e.g., by coop
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The degree program comprises three sections. In the modules of the basic studies (4 semesters) you will acquire an overview of the various theological subjects. If necessary, the necessary language skills can be acquired during the course of study. The intermediate examination forms the conclusion of the basic studies.
In the main study period (4 semesters), you will deepen your theological knowledge and competencies in advanced modules and can set focal points according to your own interests.
The modules of the integration and examination phase (2 semesters) serve as preparation for the final examinations.
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- Enjoyment of working with texts
- Willingness to learn ancient languages (Latin, Greek and Hebrew)
- Openness to engage with new things, to think critically about the Christian faith, and to develop your own discernment in conversation with others
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Most students of theology aspire to become pastors. However, the study of Protestant Theology qualifies more comprehensively, so that access to other social and cultural areas is also open. Protestant theologians work, among other things, in
- in church and diaconal professions (e.g. in church counseling centers)
- as lecturers in science and teaching
- in the entire field of education (kindergarten to adult education)
- as speakers in politics and business
- in publishing and journalism
- in public relations
- in personnel departments
In addition to their academic skills, theologians are often in demand for 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.