Branch programme/details

The purpose of doctoral studies in the field of Practical and Ecumenical Theology and Theological Ethics is for students to cultivate, in the usual way for advanced studies, their ability to think theologically and to deepen their knowledge of the theological tradition in its ecumenical, practical, and ethical dimensions on an expert level. Students learn to critically analyse and reflect on the knowledge acquired and methods used in their field, and to interpret them both in their own specific contexts and in the interdisciplinary settings of contemporary scholarly knowledge. Depending on the subject of their dissertation project, their studies are focused on the relevant specialisation in the field of ecumenical or practical theology (for example, homiletics, catechetics, poimenics, practical ecclesiology, hymnology, or missiology), or on theological ethics or Christian social work (diaconia). At the same time, however, they retain the appropriate breadth of vision and interdisciplinary orientation that pertains to all branches of theology.

The entrance examination is oral and takes place in one round.

Components, content and assessment of the entrance examination:

1. Expert debate on the submitted dissertation project. The content and methodological quality of the project, its innovative potential and the applicant's ability to interpret and defend the research plan are evaluated. Part of the debate takes place in a foreign language (English, German or French, language to be chosen by the candidate). If required by the nature of the project, knowledge of relevant ancient and world languages (e.g. Latin, Greek, Hebrew, English, German, French) is also tested. The addmissions board awards 0-60 points.

2. An oral examination that assesses knowledge and understanding of the subject at the level of the final examinations of the Master's degree. The applicant will submit a list of at least five titles of relevant literature studied. The addmissions board awards 0-40 points.

Minimum number of points required for acceptance: 90.

Admission Criteria
An applicant may be admitted to this study programme if he or she has obtained at least 90 points in the entrance examination and if he or she has ranked within the expected number of accepted students for this study programme based on their obtained points (see the admission requirements). This condition is also met by all applicants who have scored the same number of points as the last applicant on the list who qualifies for admission.
The expected number of accepted students is determined specifically for full-time study. If an applicant has not ranked within this number, yet has obtained at least 75 points, the faculty may offer him or her a combined form of the same study branch.

Admission to Doctoral studies is conditioned by successful completion of a Master's study programme.

Verification method:	entrance exam
Confirmation date (of entrance exam) from:	02.06.2025	Until:	20.06.2025
Alternative date (of entrance exam):	25.06.2025	Until:	27.06.2025

Individual, depending on the nature of the dissertation project.

Will not be opened.

Graduates have a thorough knowledge of theology based on the current state of knowledge. Depending on the subject of their dissertation project, they have expert knowledge, skills, and competence in the field of practical theology, ecumenical theology, or theological ethics. They understand the ecumenical dimension of the Christian tradition and are well versed in its pluralistic forms. They are familiar with the history of their discipline, are able to reflect on the methodological issues relating to it, and understand its current trends.
They are capable of exact theological thinking, and of discussing even highly complex and controversial questions. They know how to draw up a well-grounded analysis of theological issues and to explain their findings comprehensibly in interdisciplinary settings. They are capable of presenting the results of their scholarly work on an international level.