Intercultural Theology (BA) University of Göttingen

Students who do not speak English as their first language must provide proof of proficiency at a level of B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

This is a three-year programme designed for students passionate about intercultural and interreligious research. Through exposure to a wide range of disciplines, we support you in developing your critical, analytical, and comparative skills. You will gain competence especially in Biblical Studies, Global Christian History, Ecumenical Theology, Religious Studies, Systematic and Practical Theology. All of these topics are taught and studied from an intercultural perspective.

1 March to 30 April 2026 (non-EU)
1 June to 15 July 2026 (EU/ EAA)

The curriculum conveys knowledge of structural elements, forms, and transformation processes of Christian Theology in different cultural contexts. It enables students to analyse the transcultural characters of Global Christianities and their interactions with other religions.

I. Specialised Studies (93 CP)

• Orientation Module
• Intercultural Perception of Religion
• Biblical Tradition and its Interpretation I + II
• Traditions of European Christianity
• Systematic-theological Perspectives
• Orthodox Christianity Worldwide
• Christianity in the Contexts of Global Religion
• Theories of Culture
• Religion: Culture and Diversity
• Internship
• Practical Theology I + II

II. Professionalisation (42 CP)

• Introduction to scientific work
• German language
• Academic English Reading
• Optional Area (Hebrew, Greek, elective courses)

III. Extra-theological area of competence (30 CP)

• Diversity Studies
• Regional Sciences
• Sustainability Studies

IV. Final phase (15 CP)

• Final Module (including the Bachelor's thesis)

Our programme fosters meaningful interaction, blending theory, practice, and conceptual development to enrich the intercultural perspectives on religious traditions. Through lively academic discussions in intercultural groups, our students reflect on the transcultural aspects of Christianity and learn to apply their theological expertise in various cultural contexts.

To enrich their experience and expertise, students can spend a couple of months or a semester abroad at one of the partner institutions worldwide. Various financing options are available for students who want to conduct their research project abroad, such as Erasmus, PROMOS, Stube BPSA, BAföG, etc.

The programme includes an internship that can be conducted in Germany or abroad. 

No tuition fees

The fees are around 400 EUR per semester. This usually includes a prepaid semester ticket, which entitles students to use regional trains in Germany free of charge as well as buses in Göttingen. University of Göttingen students also receive discounts or free entry to many cultural events in the city. Meals and drinks are available at reduced prices at all university canteens.

The average cost of living in Göttingen is modest compared to other major university cities in Germany. Currently, expenses for accommodation, food, health insurance and books are about  800 to 900 EUR per month. Please note that fees for health insurance may vary according to age.

International students should note that it is not possible to study in Germany without sufficient financing.

The programme is open to all who have obtained a high school diploma, allowing study at a German university, or already hold a Bachelor’s degree in another discipline and want to change their field of study. Applicants are expected to show interest in theology, intercultural and interreligious research, and the academic study of religion.

Since all classes are held in English, applicants who do not speak English as a native language have to submit proof of proficiency in English (B2 level).

Please visit our website for more information about the application requirements, admissions process, scholarships, and deadlines.

The following proofs are accepted:

• "International English Language Testing System" (IELTS Academic): min. volume 6.0
• "Test of English as a Foreign Language, internet-based test” (TOEFL iBT): min. 81 points
• Cambridge English Scale: min. 160 points
• Global Scale of English (Pearson Academic): min. 59 points
• UNIcert®: min. Zertifikat UNIcert® II
• NULTE-certificate: min. level B2

Also acceptable as proof:

• At least one year of stay for study or work purposes in a country where English is the official language
• Average grade of at least 9 grade points in the high school subject “English” within the last two years before university entrance qualification

The proof can be submitted after the application deadline but before enrolment. It is a prerequisite for enrolment.

German language skills do not have to be proven.

1 March to 30 April 2026 (non-EU)
1 June to 15 July 2026 (EU/ EAA)

Germany scholarship ("Deutschlandstipendium"):
https://uni-goettingen.de/en/218535.html

The university supports students in finding part-time jobs in local industries and businesses. A number of student jobs are also available at the university. They are announced on this website.

Please note that restrictions may apply depending on your scholarship or visa.

Non-EU students are subject to special regulations. Some proficiency in German is an advantage to find a job. Non-EU students are permitted to work a maximum of 120 full days (240 half days) per year.

The Accommodation Service of the International Office supports international students who are enrolled at the University of Göttingen in finding accommodation and serves as a point of contact for related queries. The Accommodation Service also publishes suitable offers from private landlords in Göttingen and collaborates with the Student Services ("Studierendenwerk"). As the number of available accommodation options in Göttingen is limited, it is highly recommended to contact the Accommodation Service as early as possible.

The Career Service of the University of Göttingen offers individual support to facilitate your successful transition from the academic to the professional world — whether you want to work in Germany or abroad. Especially for international students aiming for a career entry in Germany, the Career Service provides topic-specific "Career Impulse Sessions", workshops, online learning modules, and a qualification programme in “Building International Careers” as well as digital career tools and a virtual community for international employment opportunities: www.uni-goettingen.de/en/292.html.

The International Office provides a wide range of services for international students.

German students help newly arrived students to adapt to the university and the city during their first weeks.

An orientation week for new international students provides valuable information about Göttingen and the university.

Study Buddy Programme: part of the project Integration and Diversity at Göttingen University (InDiGU)

Foyer International: meetings and activities for all students

German courses during studies (free of charge)