New Master in Passau: Pastoral work for career changers starts!

New Master in Passau: Pastoral work for career changers starts!

The University of Passau is expanding its range of courses with a new master's degree program in pastoral work, which will start in the coming winter semester 2025/26. This innovative course of study is offered in the Department of Catholic Theology and is aimed particularly at career changers and volunteers in the church community. The offer takes an important step towards realigning the department in order to respond specifically to the needs of the church and its members.

The master's program offers both full-time and part-time study. Students can complete the course in four semesters or part-time in eight semesters. What is particularly outstanding is that the course is also aimed at people without a high school diploma or formal degree, which lowers the inhibition threshold for those interested. Interested parties have the opportunity to contact us now, although the application period does not officially begin until April 1, 2025. Webinars will be offered on March 18 and July 15, 2025 before the start of the course.

Technical basics and teaching content

The master's degree qualifies graduates for church pastoral care and related professional fields. A central element of the course is internships, which enable students to test their skills in applied theology and pastoral conversation. The concept of the course was developed in close collaboration with the Diocese of Passau developed, which underlines the close connection between academic content and practical requirements.

The courses are predominantly held digitally, with face-to-face events that usually take place on one or two weekends per semester. This offers students a flexible opportunity to balance their studies with professional obligations. According to Prof. Dr. Christian Handschuh, who is responsible for the course and is also the spokesman for the Department of Catholic Theology, the realignment of the course offerings includes a special emphasis within the Catholic theological landscape that is not present at many other locations in German-speaking countries.

Academic perspective and future prospects

The accreditation process for the new master's degree program is currently underway and should be completed by the beginning to middle of next year. In the coming years, the program will contribute to enriching the study landscape in Catholic theology in Germany. Students who earn the Master of Pastoral Work not only gain theoretical knowledge, but also practical skills that are of great importance in church practice.

For further information about the course of study and the application modalities, those interested can visit the website University of Passau Visit where relevant details and updates will be provided.