1. Study Contents

The Master's course, "Practical Islamic Theology for Chaplaincy and Social Work”, offers students the opportunity to acquire a well-grounded learning experience in both the theoretical as well as practical aspects of the emerging field of Islamic Chaplaincy. As a flagship program in Germany, it stresses both interdisciplinary and interreligious approaches to help train future chaplains for their much-needed roles within the diverse social and cosmopolitan contexts of 21st century Europe. Prioritising a thorough grounding in Islamic Theology and faith-based approaches to chaplaincy and social care, the Masters provides a broad menu of work options through its tailor made internship programs. These include, though are not limited to, chaplaincy in hospitals, prisons, work with refugees, youth, counselling etc. In each case, these intend to serve the added benefit of broadening the pastoral range of students and their exposure to both the plethora of social needs, and the demands of their communities. In addition to these features, the program is dedicated to academic excellence and provides students with the opportunity to compose a dissertation work towards further academic research.

2. Admission Requirements

The Master's program is open to all Bachelor graduates of German and foreign universities who have a first degree in Islamic theology, Islamic Studies, in related religious and social sciences, or applicants with a similar qualification.

The teaching languages of the program are German and English. Those who have not acquired their university qualifications in a German institution must demonstrate sufficient German language skills before beginning their studies at the University of Tübingen. Further details are provided in the regulations about the German language examination for university entrance (DSH).

Knowledge of the English language is required and may take the following forms

• At least level B2 according to the Common European Framework for Languages must be proven by one of the following
• TOEFL (total score of at least 87 Internet-Based TOEFL (TOEFL iBT)
• IELTS (minimum 5.0 overall score)
• Cambridge certificate of Advanced English Test (grade A or B)
• Language certificate from the German Academic exchange Service (DAAD) (minimum level (c) (or equivalent language proficiency levels of Europe B2).

University entrance qualification will be accepted, if all these requirements are met and confirmed by the certificate: (1) English was the 1st, 2nd or 3rd foreign language, (2) English was continued until graduation and (3) it is still considered proficient (10 points).

In addition, the candidates have to prove knowledge of Arabic (at least B2 of GER). Another criterion is a grade point average of at least 2.5 in the previous bachelor's degree.
You are exempted from the obligation to prove your language skills if
• your native language is English or Arabic;
• you have acquired 30 ECTS in English or Arabic language courses / modules at a university in an EU / EEA country or Switzerland. Students must prove the language of teaching of these courses / modules;
• you have successfully completed a study program in English or Arabic;
• you have successfully acquired 30 ECTS or have completed courses with a total of 30 ECTS or equivalent services in the course of university studies in an English or Arabic speaking region. Students must prove the language of teaching;
• you have obtained your university entrance qualification under the predominant use of English or Arabic as a language of instruction.

The program is open to students of the Islamic faith.

3. Selection Procedure

The Master's program will take a limited number of applicants. Acceptance to the program is based on the Institute’s selection procedure. Further details are laid down in the statutes of the University of Tübingen for this procedure and the program Practical Islamic Theology for Chaplaincy and Social Work. You may also gain information by contacting the Student Advisory Office.

4. Application

The course program starts each winter semester (October). Applications for the first semester must complete their application online. Access to the online application form will be possible from early April. Application deadlines are July 15th.

Applying for a Master's program.

For further information, please contact the Student Advisory Office.

5. Duration of the Program

The standard period of studying is four semesters with a total of 120 credit points.

6. Exam Regulations and Module Handbook

Please find the module manual on the right.

7. Professions

The program provides students with a broad set of skills that will enable them to work in a variety of academic and non-academic fields. Equipped and conversant with an academic (theological) study of chaplaincy and having practical experience, students gain expertise which can transfer to pathways in careers including, though not limited to, religious leadership; hospital, prison and social chaplaincy, counselling, diplomacy, interfaith dialogue, conflict prevention, religious instruction, refugee work etc. The Masters also encourages independent research allowing students a means to undertake independent doctoral work.