English 
Deutsch Who is the Master’s Degree in Protestant Theology at FTH Gießen Suitable For?
The Master’s degree programme in Protestant Theology at the Freie Theologische Hochschule Gießen is aimed at individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in Protestant theology and wish to deepen their theological knowledge further. The target group primarily includes graduates who want to qualify for academic or church-related activities – for example, in parish work, theological research, educational institutions, or supra-church organisations. The programme is also suitable for those who want to engage personally and professionally with biblical, historical, systematic, and practical aspects of theology and expand their skills in a practice-oriented manner.
Admission Requirements: What Applicants Need to Bring
- University degree: A bachelor’s degree (B.A.) in Protestant theology is mandatory and expected as an entrance qualification.
- Application deadline: Applications must be submitted by 15 September at the latest for the following winter semester.
- Start of studies: The programme usually starts in the winter semester (mid-October).
- Mode of study: This is an on-campus programme in Gießen.
Note: The Master’s degree programme is officially recognised. Admission requires recognition of relevant prior achievements. Prospective students should provide proof of their degree and, if applicable, further documents such as transcripts.
Personal Requirements and Expectations
- Interest in academically founded theological work
- Motivation for personal development in the theological context
- Willingness to engage with complex professional, ethical, and intercultural issues
- Commitment to actively shaping a Christian university community
- Openness to a semester abroad, practical phases, and international contacts
- Independence and organisational skills for the demanding course of study
The programme is explicitly suitable for students living with a disability. The university points out that studying with a disability is possible and supported.
What do you learn in the Master of Protestant Theology at FTH Gießen?
In the M.A. Protestant Theology, you deepen central areas of theology and specialise according to your interests. The curriculum includes the following thematic focuses:
- Biblical Studies: Old and New Testament, biblical studies seminars, biblical theology
- Systematic and Historical Theology: Ethics, historical and systematic issues, seminars relating to the history and present of theology
- Practical Theology and Missiology: Interdisciplinary and intercultural approaches, church and religious education, cultural studies
- Languages: Language modules, especially Latin (Latinum) optional
- Research Module: Independent theological research from the first semester
- Semester Abroad: Optional semester abroad, e.g. in the USA, Canada, Norway or Scotland
- Internship: Block internship with 6 ECTS in the third semester
- Elective Modules: Specialisations in OT, NT, systematic, historical or practical theology as well as missiology
- Master’s Thesis: Independent academic work in the fourth semester (21 ECTS)
The individual modules are designed so that you acquire both academic and practical competences.
How does the Master’s degree proceed?
The master’s degree regularly lasts four semesters (two years) in full-time study at the Freie Theologische Hochschule Gießen. The study programme is modularised and follows this schedule:
- Semester 1:
- Advanced modules in Old/New Testament, historical/systematic theology, practical theology/missiology, Latin, research module
- Semester 2:
- Continuation of advanced modules, elective language module
- Semester 3:
- Semester abroad (24 ECTS) possible
- Block internship (6 ECTS)
- Semester 4:
- Elective module (e.g. OT/NT/ST/HT/PT/MW)
- Master’s thesis
As a special feature, the university offers an optional semester abroad with partner institutions as well as individual specialisation options. The campus is open continuously and offers close supervision by 16 full-time lecturers.
What are your career prospects after graduation?
The Master of Arts in Protestant Theology qualifies you for demanding roles in various fields. After your studies, you are, among other things, prepared for:
- Teaching positions in theology at educational institutions
- Leadership roles in church or free Christian organisations
- Activities at mission societies and NGOs
- Academic work at universities and institutes (possibly with further doctoral studies)
- Support of congregations, pastoral care, counselling
The programme also gives you the opportunity to further specialise or to work in theological research.
Studying at the Gießen location
The Freie Theologische Hochschule is located in Gießen (Hesse). The campus is modernly equipped and available to students around the clock. Students can use a semester ticket which also covers public transport, the outdoor swimming pool and a theatre ticket. The university places great value on close community, individual exchange and support in both study and life matters.
Costs and financing options
- Tuition fees: €260 monthly (standard period of study 4 semesters), corresponding to €1,560 per semester
- Total costs: approx. €6,000 for the entire master’s programme
- Semester ticket: €146.55 per semester (incl. extras)
- Scholarships: Various funding options through the university, including Deutschlandstipendium, other foundations, BAföG up to the maximum rate
- Foreign funding: Erasmus+ and BAföG foreign supplements possible for a semester abroad in Europe
FTH Gießen supports you individually with all questions regarding financing your studies and advises on scholarships and further funding programmes.
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Admission Requirements
To be eligible for the MA in Theology program at FTH Gießen, candidates typically need to have completed a BA in Theology or a closely related field. Given your BA in Theology from Nigeria, you would need to ensure that your degree is recognized as equivalent to a German bachelor's degree. It's advisable to contact the admissions office of FTH Gießen directly to confirm the specific requirements for international degrees and any additional documentation you may need to provide, such as transcripts, proof of language proficiency (usually in German), and possibly a statement of purpose or letters of recommendation.
Program Content
The MA in Theology at FTH Gießen is designed to deepen theological knowledge and understanding, with a focus on biblical studies, systematic theology, historical theology, and practical theology. The program encourages specialization in a particular area of interest and includes opportunities for research. An international perspective is a significant component, with options for an exchange semester abroad, enhancing your global theological understanding and network.
Costs
The program fee is approximately 250€ per month, with an additional 140€ per semester for a semester ticket, which covers public transportation within the region. These fees do not include living expenses, such as accommodation, food, health insurance, and personal expenses, which you will need to budget for separately. Living costs in Germany can vary, but on average, international students should budget around 850€ to 1,000€ per month for all expenses.
Studying as an International Student in Germany
As an international student from Nigeria, you will need to apply for a student visa to study in Germany. This process involves providing proof of financial resources to cover your living expenses for one year (the "Blocked Account"), health insurance coverage, and acceptance from the university. Additionally, you'll need to consider accommodation options, either on-campus or in private housing.
Germany is known for its welcoming attitude towards international students and offers a high-quality education system. However, adjusting to a new academic and cultural environment can be challenging, so it's crucial to make use of university resources such as international student offices, which can provide support with bureaucracy, language courses, and integration into the student community.
In conclusion, pursuing an MA in Theology at FTH Gießen as a student from Nigeria is a feasible and potentially enriching path, provided you meet the admission requirements and prepare for the financial and cultural aspects of studying abroad. It's recommended to start the application process early to allow ample time for visa and accommodation arrangements.