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Deutsch Who is the Bachelor's Degree in Protestant Theology Suitable For?
The Bachelor's degree in Protestant Theology at the International Hochschule Liebenzell is aimed at individuals who have a deep interest in theological questions, faith, church, and mission. The course is particularly suitable for people who wish to prepare for work in churches, free churches, mission organisations, community youth work, or in an international context. Those interested in teaching positions at theological educational institutions or in intercultural community work will also find a suitable programme here.
What Admission Requirements Apply to the Protestant Theology Degree Programme?
To be admitted to the Bachelor's degree in Protestant Theology, you need:
- a university entrance qualification according to the regulations of the state of Baden-Württemberg (general higher education entrance qualification, subject-specific higher education entrance qualification, advanced technical college entrance qualification, or an equivalent qualification recognised as such)
- usually at least one year of voluntary commitment in a congregation, community, or youth association
- affirmation of the objectives of the International Hochschule Liebenzell in accordance with the basic regulations as well as respect for other religious convictions
- willingness to engage with the contemporary relevance of the biblical message
- for applicants without German as their mother tongue: proof of sufficient German language skills
- command of the English language, as individual modules and courses are conducted in English
You should bring initiative, openness to theological and social discussions, and a willingness to develop further professionally, personally, and spiritually. Previous experience in community work, voluntary activities in the church environment, and interest in intercultural exchange are useful. Analytical thinking, communication skills, and enjoyment in working with historical languages such as Greek and Hebrew support academic success.
How is the Bachelor's degree in Protestant Theology structured at IHL?
In the Bachelor's degree programme in Protestant Theology at the Internationale Hochschule Liebenzell, you receive a comprehensive theological education covering all the classical disciplines of theology. The focus is on the scholarly engagement with God, humanity, and the world, as well as the development of analytical and communicative skills for ecclesiastical and societal contexts.
- Old and New Testament: Advanced exegesis and introduction to biblical texts
- Biblical languages: Learning Greek and Hebrew (in the preliminary studies)
- Church and mission history: Historical development of Christianity and mission
- Systematic and Practical Theology: Theological frameworks, ethics, pastoral care, homiletics
- Philosophy and intercultural theology: Reflection on fundamental worldview questions and intercultural aspects
- Elective modules and specialisations: Various options for specialisation, e.g. mission theology
- Practical components: Long-term internship during preliminary studies as well as optional community internships in the main study period
Through this broad spectrum, you are able to address religious, societal, and cultural challenges with a well-founded theological approach.
How is the Protestant Theology degree course conducted in Bad Liebenzell?
You study Protestant Theology on campus as a full-time programme over 8 semesters (standard period of study). The course is divided into a two-year preliminary study period and an in-depth main study period:
- Preliminary studies (2 years): Teaching of theological basics, intensive language training in Greek and Hebrew, introduction to exegetical and historical questions
- Main studies (2 years): In-depth study in compulsory and elective areas, opportunity for individual specialisation, especially in the (inter)cultural context
- Study abroad: Optional semester abroad at an international partner university in the 5th or 6th semester
- Organisation: Each of the 8 semesters comprises 14 lecture weeks and three examination weeks
- Campus life: The community on campus promotes not only academic but also personal development
Accommodation options are available on campus or facilitated via the university. The course start date is each winter semester.
Which professional fields open up with a Bachelor's degree in Protestant Theology?
With a degree in Protestant Theology, you are qualified for a wide range of fields of activity both inside and outside the church. Typical career opportunities include:
- Pastoral service (outside the framework of the EKD member churches)
- Mission service at home and abroad
- Youth worker
- Church planting and church development, especially in intercultural contexts
- Cross-milieu community work and missional projects
- Teaching activities at theological training institutions
In addition, you can pursue further qualifications with a Master’s degree in Protestant Theology or related degree programmes.
What special features does Bad Liebenzell offer as a place of study for Protestant Theology?
The course takes place on the campus in Bad Liebenzell, a spa town in the northern Black Forest, about 20 kilometres south of Pforzheim. The attractive location combines a natural environment with proximity to the Stuttgart metropolitan region. The seminar rooms and the library are modernly equipped. The campus is situated on the Missionsberg and is part of the study and living community of the Liebenzeller Mission. This community promotes your social, practical, and spiritual development in addition to the study programme.
What costs must you expect for studying Theology at IHL?
The monthly tuition fee is €380, which corresponds to a total tuition fee of €18,240 for the entire 8 semesters. Payment is also possible by semester (€2,280 per semester). As a private university, the Internationale Hochschule Liebenzell does not receive basic state funding, so the fees contribute to financing the teaching operation. There is the possibility to apply for scholarships or other funding. Accommodation costs on campus or beyond are additional and arranged individually.
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