On-campus program Theology/Pedagogy in an Intercultural Context (B.A.) – Liebenzell International University

Who is the Theology/Education in an Intercultural Context degree suitable for?

The Bachelor's degree in Theology/Education in an Intercultural Context is aimed at individuals seeking a combination of theological and educational training with a clear focus on intercultural work. The course is particularly suitable for applicants who wish to prepare for roles as educational professionals, child and youth officers, educational officers in church, diaconal or non-profit organisations, internationally oriented youth associations, or in the field of child and youth welfare. Furthermore, the degree offers the opportunity to qualify for an advanced academic career in the educational or theological field.

What admission requirements apply for the application?

For admission to the programme at the International University Liebenzell, you need:

• the formal university entrance qualification according to the regulations applicable in Baden-Württemberg, e.g. Abitur, Fachhochschulreife or a qualification recognised as equivalent (details at www.studieren-in-bw.de)
• usually at least one year of (voluntary) work in a congregation, community or youth association
• affirmation of the university’s mission and the willingness to engage with questions of faith and their relevance to the present
• sufficient knowledge of German (for international applicants)
• good knowledge of English, as some of the courses take place in English

Personal suitability includes openness to intercultural encounters, interest in theological and educational issues as well as the willingness to engage reflectively with religious and ethical topics. Experience in church, social or educational practice, empathy, communication skills and the ability to work with children, young people and young adults are helpful. You should enjoy teamwork and interdisciplinary learning and be prepared to take on responsibility in educational and community contexts.

What study contents can you expect in the Bachelor's degree Theology/Education in an intercultural context?

In the Theology/Education in an intercultural context degree programme at the International University Liebenzell, you combine profound knowledge of theology and educational science with a strong focus on intercultural and societal issues. The central study contents include:

• Biblical-theological foundations and ethics
• Educational concepts in different life phases
• Intercultural communication and interreligious dialogue
• Pastoral care and counselling practice
• Psychology and sociology in the educational context
• Homiletics (theory of preaching)
• Adult education and community pedagogy
• Project management in church-related, social and education-oriented organisations

In the main study phase (from the 5th semester), you can set individual specialisations, for example in the following profiles:

• Education and training: Deepening of educational competences, e.g. for youth or school social work.
• Community pedagogy: Preparation for activities in Christian children’s and youth work or general community work.
• Religious education: Qualification for teaching religious education in the area of the Evangelical State Church in Württemberg (including the first official examination).
• Adventure pedagogy: Acquisition of competences for experience- and action-oriented learning formats, also as a basis for qualification as an "Adventure Educator (be)®".

Through the interdisciplinary orientation, you develop theological as well as educational, social and communicative skills that are essential for activities in church-related, social and intercultural environments.