Biblical Studies University of Bonn

The Master's programme in Biblical Studies (MBSt) includes:

• in the compulsory area, the study of the methods of analysis and interpretation of the original language texts of the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament;
• the consideration of the literary and reception history of these writings;
• the introduction to important topics and traditions of different theological approaches;
• an elective module in which students can expand their historical knowledge or deepen current topics.

The one-year programme is very well suited as preparation for doctoral studies in Theology, especially with a focus on Old Testament/New Testament studies, as students deepen knowledge in biblical studies through their work on source texts in original languages, and they also can explore a future PhD research field during the work on their Master's theses. The discussion of current research questions is included in all modules.

Competences acquired in the Master's programme go beyond biblical exegesis. Students will also develop intercultural skills and the ability to participate in an international academic discourse.

The MBSt is offered by the Faculty of Protestant Theology in cooperation with the Centre for Religion and Society at the University of Bonn. The cooperation also opens up interdisciplinary perspectives for students in the elective area.

The Master's programme in Biblical Studies includes a combination of both compulsory and elective modules, and it consists of seminars and lectures and a Master's thesis.

Centre for Religion and Society /Zentrum für Religion und Gesellschaft (ZERG)

• Early Bird Application Period: 1 October - 30 October and 1 December - 31 December
•  Regular Application Period: 1 January - 1 July

1. The Biblical Studies consecutive Master’s programme is aimed at applicants who have a first university degree in Protestant Theology, Roman Catholic Theology, Old Catholic Theology, Religion Studies or a similar programme. Students need to have acquired at least 240 ECTS in their first academic degree.
2. Proof of having already worked on biblical source texts in the original languages (to the extent of one course respectively) and sufficient knowledge of Hebrew and Greek is to be provided.
3. English language proficiency is required (see below for details).
4. International applicants who are not considered as equivalent to German citizens by or on the basis of international treaties and who do not have a German university entrance qualification must pass the examination to determine their ability to study (Appendix 3, Examination Regulations).

The University of Bonn is a public university, meaning that it does not charge tuition fees. However, all students must pay the semester fee of about 350 EUR per semester, which covers a Deutschlandsemesterticket (student transit pass for public transport) and statutory accident insurance, among other things.

Students in Bonn can expect to pay around 1,000 EUR a month, with rent accounting for the largest share of their living costs.

The MA in Biblical Studies will offer several student assistant jobs to its international students through the "ExStra Work-Study Grant" project. This initiative is backed by funds from the University of Bonn's Excellence Strategy, aimed at attracting excellent students to Master's degree programmes. More information can be found on the website. 

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. International students can also 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 and thus making it easier for them to enter the job market.

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

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

International applicants who are admitted to the Master’s programme in Biblical Studies 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. 
Individual support is offered to all students in search of accommodation.