Comparative Theological Studies University of Bonn

The students must be able to work with scriptures in original languages.

Core Modules

1. MCT 1: Comparative Theology

• Focus: Methodological and hermeneutical foundations of Comparative Theology, including dialogical engagement and interfaith reflection
  • Content:
    • Introduction to key approaches, such as Comparative Theology in Christian, Islamic, and Jewish contexts
    • Case studies of theological doctrines like God, Christology, and Eschatology analysed through comparative frameworks
• Outcomes: Students apply comparative methods, reflect on theological transformations across traditions, and develop interreligious perspectives.

2. MCT 2: Law and Religion

• Focus: Understanding legal traditions in Christianity, Islam, and Judaism
  • Content:
    • Canon Law, Islamic Law, and Halakha explored through specific applications, such as education, ethics, and religious violence
    • Engagement with international debates on religion and law
• Outcomes: Students analyse the interaction of legal and theological principles, evaluating their roles in addressing contemporary issues.

3. MCT 3: Jewish-Christian-Muslim Relations

• Focus: Historical and theological relationships among Abrahamic faiths
  • Content:
    • Jewish-Christian relations, including the impact of antisemitism and theological reconciliation
    • Islamic theological approaches to Judaism and Christianity
    • Theologies of Abrahamic religions explored through interfaith dialogue
• Outcomes: Students critically assess historical and theological dynamics, fostering deeper understanding of interreligious connections.

4. MCT 5: Master’s Thesis

• Focus: Independent research on a chosen topic in Comparative Theology
• Outcomes: Students demonstrate mastery in applying comparative methodologies, engage with current research debates, and produce an original scholarly contribution.

Elective Modules (choose one)

1. MCT 4a: Biblical, Qur’anic, and Historical Foundations

• Focus: Textual and historical analysis of sacred texts in Christianity, Islam, and Judaism
  • Content:
    • Translation-critical readings of biblical and Qur’anic texts
    • Study of patristic writings and rabbinic or hadith traditions
• Outcomes: Students develop critical skills for historical-critical exegesis and examine transformative processes of scriptural traditions.

2. MCT 4b: Ecumenism in Theory and Practice

• Focus: Exploring ecumenical dialogue and theological engagement within Christian traditions
  • Content:
    • Case studies of Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox, and Old Catholic approaches
    • Educational frameworks for valuing diversity and fostering interfaith empathy
• Outcomes: Students analyse ecumenical opportunities and develop pedagogical tools for interreligious and intra-religious understanding.

The programme is offered full-time in two semesters. Those unable to attend in person are encouraged to enrol in the four-semester part-time programme.

Submit your applications before 30 September. International students requiring a visa are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

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No tuition fees

The University of Bonn is a public university, meaning that it does not charge tuition fees. However, all students must pay the so-called social contribution (semester fee) of about 330 EUR per semester. It includes, among other things, a student transit pass for public transport and a statutory accident insurance.

The cost of living for students in Bonn is around 800 EUR to 1,000 EUR, with rent accounting for the largest share.

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• A Bachelor’s degree (equivalent to 240 CPT) in the fields of Catholic Theology, Protestant Theology, Islamic Theology/Islamic Studies, Jewish Theology/Judaic Studies, Religious Studies, or a related discipline
• Proficiency in an ancient language (e.g. Latin, Greek, Hebrew, or Arabic), ensuring engagement with primary theological texts
• Advanced English proficiency (for details, see below)

• English B2 level: TOEFL (a minimum of 72 in iBT, and 533 in PBT), IELTS (5.5) or comparable accomplishments in language tests
• Applicants are exempt, if they can show that they have achieved the matriculation standard for a university from an English-speaking school and/or the completion of a university degree in a programme conducted at least partially in the English language.
• Exceptions are brought before the examination board.
• Proficiency in an ancient language (e.g. Latin, Greek, Hebrew, or Arabic), ensuring engagement with primary theological texts

Submit your applications before 30 September. International students requiring a visa are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

No

Students of the University of Bonn can apply for a room in a dormitory of the "Studierendenwerk Bonn" (further information: www.studierendenwerk-bonn.de/en/accommodation). 

For further information on housing in Bonn, please visit our website: www.uni-bonn.de/housing.

International applicants who are admitted to the Master’s programme can apply for a dorm room through the programme coordinator. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that all students will be allotted a room, as these are in short supply.

The University of Bonn has a central Career Service (www.uni-bonn.de/careerservice), which provides a range of advice and support about choosing a career and applying for jobs. Moreover, international students can join the iStart career programme (www.uni-bonn.de/istart), which teaches participants tangible knowledge and valuable skills that will enable them to write successful applications for jobs in Germany. The programme is geared toward giving students a successful career path both during and after their studies, thus making it easier for them to enter the job market.

The University of Bonn offers a range of different support programmes for international students. The Welcome Days (www.uni-bonn.de/welcomedays) before the start of every semester are an opportunity for new students from abroad to gather information on the most important issues, such as enrolment, registration with the local authorities, and opening a bank account. Getting to know fellow international and German students during recreational activities is another benefit of the Welcome Days.

The Study Buddy programme (www.uni-bonn.de/study-buddy) matches newly-arrived international students (mentees) with a University of Bonn student (buddy) who helps them as they start their studies and adjust to life in Bonn. The buddies give tips, advice and assistance that make it easier for their mentees to become familiar with the university and get settled in Bonn.