Practical Theology and Social Work, Bachelor of Arts

Who is the degree programme „Practical Theology and Social Work“ at the Evangelische Hochschule Tabor suitable for?

The Bachelor's degree programme „Practical Theology and Social Work“ is aimed at all those who wish to prepare themselves both scientifically and practically for work in the fields of social work, social education or community education. It addresses people who want to combine complex social challenges with Christian values. The programme is especially suitable for individuals who later want to work in social institutions, advisory contexts, diaconal organisations or church communities. In addition to classic social work fields, it also targets those interested in working in Christian child and youth work, adult education, pastoral care or social mission projects.

Admission requirements at a glance

• General higher education entrance qualification (Abitur) or advanced technical college entrance qualification (Fachhochschulreife)
• Alternatively: an equivalent recognised prior qualification (e.g. master craftsman’s certificate, completion of a recognised technical school or similar qualifications according to the regulations of the state of Hesse)
• For applicants without Abitur or Fachhochschulreife, an entrance examination or assessment procedure may be required
• Recognition possibilities exist for graduates of the Marburg Bible Seminary (MBS) within the existing cooperation
• Proof of sufficient German language skills (for international applicants)
• Application for the winter semester, with possible consultation also for the summer semester

All relevant documents, such as certificates or proof of recognised prior qualifications, must be submitted in full with the application.

Personal requirements and recommendations

• Interest in social, societal and theological issues
• Willingness to engage with diverse life realities and challenges
• Commitment and a sense of responsibility in working with people and groups
• Ability to reflect on one’s own personality, motivation and faith
• Communication skills as well as enthusiasm for teamwork and interdisciplinary learning
• Openness to the practical application of scientific, social work and theological methods
• Resilience and stamina for the challenging professional daily routine in social work
• Affinity for Christian values – an active denominational affiliation is not a requirement but is considered an enrichment

The degree programme is designed for people who want to develop both personally and professionally and are actively interested in linking theory and practice. A certain motivation for self-organisation and personal responsibility is expected, as well as willingness to engage with the community of the Evangelische Hochschule Tabor.

What content can you expect in the Bachelor’s degree Practical Theology & Social Work?

The Bachelor’s degree programme Practical Theology & Social Work at the Evangelical University of Tabor combines professional skills in Social Work with sound Protestant theology. Over eight semesters, you will engage in both practical and academic study with the following focuses:

• Introduction and study skills: Basics of academic work, personal development and time management
• Social Work: History, theories and methods of Social Work as well as insights into various fields of activity (e.g. child and youth welfare, addiction counselling, migration, work with offenders, homeless and refugee persons)
• Related sciences: Pedagogy, psychology and sociology as theoretical foundations
• Social law: Fundamental knowledge, especially in child and youth law
• Theology: Old and New Testament studies, systematic theology, prayer and community development
• Communication of the Gospel: Homiletics (sermon theory), rhetoric, apologetics
• Community pedagogy: Conveying and applying theological and pedagogical principles within the church community
• Media literacy: Media pedagogy, communication skills, social media competence

The programme is based on compulsory modules but gives you space for individual specialisations – for example in the areas of counselling, migration, diversity, integration or media literacy. Elective modules such as “Trauma-sensitive Social Work”, “Systemic Counselling” or “Practical Journalism” allow specialisation according to your interests.

How does the course proceed?

The course is designed as a full-time on-campus programme with a standard period of study of eight semesters and starts each winter semester at the Marburg location. The core modules and admission structure correspond to those of a three-year Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and lead to official recognition as a social worker or social pedagogue. In addition, the theological modules enable church recognition and make activities in the community pedagogical service possible.

• Practical phases:
  • 1 social internship (4 weeks, e.g. in counselling centres, social institutions)
  • 1 practical-theological internship (4 weeks, e.g. in church-related contexts)
  • 1 practice semester (20 weeks) in the area of Social Work
• Tutorials: In the 1st and 8th semesters, tutorials accompany the start of your studies and the transition to working life (each group with 10–12 persons).
• Options: Additional courses can be taken from the programme Evangelical Theology – a later double bachelor option is possible upon agreement.
• Supported career entry: After graduation, a special support programme assists the transition into professional life with coaching, seminars and online meetings.

Personal support, small groups and close contact with lecturers characterise the course at EH Tabor. The university places value on a Christian campus culture, spiritual guidance and personal growth.

What career prospects does the programme open up?

After graduation, you will be awarded the “Bachelor of Arts” and official recognition as a social worker or social pedagogue. This qualifies you for all relevant fields of social work and social pedagogy – including those that explicitly require official recognition. Furthermore, the degree is recognised by the Evangelical Church in Germany for diaconal and community pedagogical service.

• Social Work:
  • Child and youth welfare (youth welfare office, residential groups, counselling centres, school social work, open youth work)
  • Social services (hospitals, workshops for people with disabilities, correctional facilities)
  • Addiction support and addiction counselling
  • Migration-related social work (e.g. refugee aid), emergency housing assistance
  • Community-oriented work and community development
  • Voluntary services
• Community pedagogy and church:
  • Christian child and youth work (groups, confirmation classes, leisure activities, training)
  • Adult work, pastoral care, counselling, faith courses, missionary initiatives
  • Social mission projects
• Other options:
  • Possibility of a Master’s degree afterwards, e.g. in Social Work, Theology or related disciplines
  • Possible double qualification with B.A. Evangelical Theology through selection of suitable modules and extension of study period

Where does your degree take place?

The Evangelical University of Tabor is located in Marburg (Hesse). The campus offers a personal learning atmosphere, characterised by community life and exchange between students and lecturers. Events such as university information days give you the opportunity to get to know the university. A transfer to the summer semester is possible by arrangement.

What does the course cost and how can you finance it?

• Tuition fees: €360 per month or €2,160 per semester
• Total duration: 8 semesters (standard period of study)
• Financing options: BAföG, scholarships, mini-jobs and other funding programmes can be used. The university provides information about current offers.

Additional costs such as living expenses, accommodation in Marburg or learning materials may apply. The Evangelical University of Tabor supports you with questions about financing your studies and offers concrete advice on funding opportunities.