Intercultural Theology (MA) University of Göttingen

The programme is conducted in English (100%). Examinations and the Master's thesis are to be written exclusively in English.

The shape of World Christianity has been transformed through globalisation. Therefore, it is more important than ever to analyse the trans- and intercultural character of theology, encounter the cultural variety of Christianity, and reflect upon the interaction between Christianity and other religions. The "Intercultural Theology" MA programme addresses these objectives with a new approach to studying theology in this thrilling time of global change.

The MA programme Intercultural Theology focuses on Christian faith and its intercultural impacts. Within the courses of this programme, students not only acquire academic skills in the field of theology and religious studies but also experience a vivid intercultural and interreligious learning field in an international group setting. 

Any kind of discriminatory practices, for example, gender discrimination or LGBTIQ discrimination, impede the intercultural learning process and will not be accepted.

The programme requires two years of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. Students obtain skills in intercultural communication, are supposed to learn basic German, and get the opportunity to learn relevant languages (e.g. Biblical Hebrew, Biblical Greek).

Students can spend a couple of months or a semester abroad at one of the partner institutions worldwide.

1 October until 31 December 2025 for the winter semester 2026/2027

For further information, please visit: https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/111666.html

Students must attend lectures and seminars and write their Master's thesis in order to meet the 120 credit point requirement (ECTS).

In the first year, students focus on Biblical Exegesis, Hermeneutics and Contextual Theologies. They also approach Christianity in the context of transcultural exchange and postcolonial perspectives.

The second year allows students to deepen their knowledge of systematic and practical theological perspectives. Students gain expertise in intercultural research, develop their own individual research projects, and write their Master’s theses.

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. There are various financing options available for students who want to conduct their research project abroad, such as Erasmus, PROMOS, Stube BPSA, BAföG, etc. Some scholarship organisations allow for a research trip within the regular period of funding.

During the past years of the programme, our students spent two to five months abroad in Armenia, Belarus, Cameroon, China, Estonia, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Lebanon, Tanzania, the USA, etc. Some of the students conducted their projects in different parts of Germany and in international organisations.

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. University of Göttingen students also receive discounts or free entry to many cultural events in the city. Meals are available at reduced prices at 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. Living expenses might be slightly higher.

The programme is open to all who hold a Bachelor's degree in theology, religious studies, cultural or social anthropology, or related subjects. Applicants are expected to demonstrate interest and expertise in the academic study of religion and such disciplines as theology, global Christianity and religious studies. Given the international diversity of higher education, each application will be reviewed individually.

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

We also require a letter of motivation (max. 1,000 words) and an academic writing sample (BA thesis extract).

For the full list of required documents, please check our website.

Since all classes are held in English, applicants whose native language is not English have to submit proof of proficiency in English. Of the many available formats, we accept TOEFL and IELTS. Applicants have to meet the minimum score of 80 TOEFL iBT, resp. 6.0 IELTS.

Exemption from the language test may be granted based on a previous degree taught in English.

German language skills do not have to be proven.

1 October until 31 December 2025 for the winter semester 2026/2027

For further information, please visit: https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/111666.html

No

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 the following website: www.stellenwerk-goettingen.de

Please note that restrictions may apply with your scholarship or visa. Non-EU students are subject to special regulations.

Foreign applicants should note that it is not easy to find a job to finance their studies, as German students are also searching for jobs. Some proficiency in German may be indispensable 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 offers individual support for the job entry. Especially for international students aiming for a career entry in Germany, the Career Service provides topic-specific workshops, online learning modules, and a qualification programme.

The "Start Guides" project also offers assistance in developing and realising individual career perspectives in Germany.

If you are interested in the topic of founding a company, start-up support is offered! The university supports you with advice, funding, qualification formats and network contacts.