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Religious Studies and Theology is a digital interdisciplinary Mono BA Program.
Religious Studies looks into religion in all its manifestations, past and present. The subject examines the interactions between religion and other social fields, like politics and medicine, and between religion and other social phenomena, like social behaviour, media or digitalization. Religious Studies is an empirical discipline that uses various theories and methods to research religious traditions and practices. It does not intend to decide on the truth or on the falsehood of religious ideas and practices.
The study of Theology encompasses an examination of the historical and cultural foundations of biblical texts, current ethical issues, history, philosophy, different theological traditions and questions of church practice.
The program is delivered fully online. The program's language of tuition is English. Applicants must be able to prove that they have a very good command of English (level C1) of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
The program is composed of nine core modules and other additional modules which the candidates may choose depending on their interests. This allows for a more intensive focus on Religious Studies or on Theology, tailored to the candidate's profile. All candidates will take core training. This includes courses on fundamental theoretical frames in the concerned disciplines, religious traditions, history of Christianity, biblical canons, religious practices, ethics, hermeneutics and philosophy of religion, or the impact of digital transformation on religion.
In addition, students will acquire and/or improve analytical skills and the academic reading and writing techniques to develop their own research project.
Pursuing interdisciplinary studies in religious studies and theology will expose you to diverse tradition of thoughts and refine your critical thinking. This programs provides you with the ability to think in a structured interconnected way and convey complex issues to a wide audience. The communication, analytical and methodological skills which are trained in the program are highly sought in the current job market. Some professions, which graduates of this program may be aiming at, will include journalism, publishing, consultancy (education, culture) or mediation.
It is also possible to continue to pursue an academic career with your own research projekt in Theology, Religious Studies or a related field.
The study program consists of various compulsory modules. Besides these, students can also choose their specializations. For example, it is possible to study with a focus on religious studies or theology. Students will conduct their research in term papers and the bachelor's thesis.
Introduction to the program, its subjects, and the disciplines involved.
Introduction to scientific reading and writing basics.
Introduction to the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament
History and theology of Islam, contemporary forms of Islamic life
Learning how to conduct participant observation and interviews
Independent study of fundamental texts of the study of religion
At the beginning of the program, students are given an introductory overview of the different approaches and sub-disciplines in religious studies and theology, as well as an introduction to scientific methods as a practical exercise.
This module group teaches academic positions that are central to the study of religion. In particular, the focus is on introducing fundamental theories and approaches relevant to the current academic debate.
The bachelor's program includes modules on various religious traditions such as Islam, Buddhism/Hinduism, Judaism, Christianity, and alternative religions.
Students learn about the various forms of the Biblical canons, the main parts of the Hebrew Bible, selected traditions, and the New Testament.
This module group focuses on religiosity currently practiced in Christian communities. A global perspective is adopted.
Ethics is also a subject of the degree program. The modules on Ethics and Religion introduce different ethical approaches and their relationship to religious values. Applied ethical problems are discussed based on selected questions.
Understanding religions requires sensitive reflections on one's hermeneutical presupposition and the possibility of understanding the Other. This course deals with different models of understanding which can be helpful in religious and interreligious contexts. Another course will address questions of the philosophy of religion.
Digitalization also affects religious practices. This module group explores the effects digital transformation has on religious practices.
Within the social scientific study of religion, modules will deal with religious practices of different traditions in the present. One focus will be on preparing students for their research.
These modules deal with the history of Christianity. Students will learn about different epochs and their distinctive features in the courses.
