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Deutsch Which target groups does the Theology/Social Work degree in an intercultural context address?
The Bachelor’s degree in Theology/Social Work in an intercultural context is aimed at individuals who want to combine social commitment with theological and human sciences perspectives. It specifically addresses applicants who are interested in social work in transcultural as well as religiously influenced contexts, whether in national or international organisations, communities, youth associations, or institutions dealing with intercultural and ethical issues. The degree course is suitable for anyone seeking a professional career as a state-recognised social worker and additionally desires a solid education in theology and intercultural competence.
These formal admission requirements you must meet
To gain admission, you need the university entrance qualification according to the regulations of the state of Baden-Württemberg, for example Abitur, Fachhochschulreife, or an equivalently recognised prior qualification. Additionally, usually at least one year of voluntary work in a community, church fellowship, or youth association must be proven. You must identify with the objectives of the Internationale Hochschule Liebenzell (IHL) in accordance with the basic regulations, show respect for different faith convictions, and be willing to engage critically with Christian content. For international students, proof of sufficient German language skills is also required. As some modules are taught in English, proficiency in the English language is expected.
You should enjoy working with people and engaging with social issues. Communication skills, empathy, and openness to other cultures as well as a willingness to reflect on your own values are central personal prerequisites. Experience in social commitment or in international/intercultural contexts is helpful. Initiative, team orientation, and resilience support your success in your studies. If you are interested in the combination of social, educational, and theological perspectives, you will find a suitable environment in this course of study.
How is the Bachelor's degree in Theology/Social Work in an intercultural context structured?
The Bachelor's degree programme in Theology/Social Work in an intercultural context at the Internationale Hochschule Liebenzell links social work, theological and intercultural competencies. The curriculum is broadly designed and includes the following key study contents:
- Fundamentals of Social Work: Professional theory, fields of activity, ethics, life and social counselling, social management
- Module Protestant Theology: Biblical studies, dogmatics, ethics and exegesis with reference to current societal issues
- Human sciences fundamentals: Pedagogy, psychology and sociology, among others with regard to individual and social developments
- Intercultural focus areas: Intercultural communication, migration, integration, mission theology and religion-sensitive social work
- Compulsory elective and elective modules: Individual specialisation according to personal interest, for example in counselling, management or specific fields of social work
- Practical experience: A six-month, professionally supervised practical semester in Germany or abroad is an integral part
Over the course of the programme, you will acquire integrative skills to act both in a social work and theologically sound manner in intercultural contexts. In doing so, you will particularly increase your understanding of social diversity, religious identity and global connections.
How does studying at the Internationale Hochschule Liebenzell work?
The programme is designed as an eight-semester full-time on-campus course with 240 ECTS credits. The study progression is divided into basic and main studies:
- Semesters 1–4 (Basic studies): Conveying the fundamentals of social work and theology
- Semesters 5–8 (Main studies): In-depth compulsory and elective modules, intercultural focus, opportunities for a semester abroad
- Practical semester: A mandatory, supervised practical semester in Germany or abroad during the 5th or 6th semester
- Regular lectures and seminars: One semester comprises 14 lecture weeks and three examination weeks
- Social and spiritual study community: Integration into a campus living community with development-oriented offerings
The start of studies is possible each winter semester. The structure offers freedom for individual interests through elective modules and personal specialisations.
Which professional fields and career paths are open after graduation?
With the Bachelor's degree, you are entitled to use the professional title "State-recognised Social Worker" (female) or "State-recognised Social Worker" (male). The generalist profile opens up diverse fields of application:
- Child and youth welfare, family support
- Care for the elderly and work with seniors
- Integration, inclusion, work with people with assistance needs
- Support in special life situations: e.g. migration, flight, homelessness, addiction counselling
- Corporate social work, hospital social work, school social work
- Work for church-based or Christian-rooted organisations, especially “faith based organisations”
Beyond professional practice, the programme qualifies you for consecutive Master's degree programmes in theology, social management or specialised further training in specialised social work.
What can you expect at the study location Bad Liebenzell?
The studies take place in Bad Liebenzell in the northern Black Forest. The campus of the Internationale Hochschule Liebenzell is located on the Missionsberg and offers modern seminar rooms as well as a well-equipped library. The location combines a natural environment with proximity to the Stuttgart metropolitan region. On campus, a study and living community promotes social and spiritual exchange – a hallmark of the location.
What costs and financing options should you expect?
The total costs for the eight-semester programme amount to 18,240 euros (380 euros per month or 2,280 euros per semester). Additional costs for accommodation, living expenses and learning materials may apply. As a private university, IHL is primarily financed through tuition fees. Classic financing options such as BAföG, scholarships and potentially support from church or social organisations are available. The university provides a detailed fee schedule.
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