Ecumenical and Extended Ecumenical Studies

The MESt programme examines the plurality of Christian traditions, churches, and theologies together with ecumenism and interreligious interaction in historical and contemporary contexts. It is designed as a research-oriented master's degree that equips students for advanced theological and ecumenical work.

Academic requirements

International applicants without German university entrance qualification must prove they have passed the aptitude test for university studies (Annex 4, Examination Regulations).

Minimum GPA

None stated.

English requirements

English at least at CEFR B2 or equivalent. The official programme pages mention TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge, or comparable proof.

Accepted bachelor fields

Applicants need a first degree in Catholic Theology, Protestant Theology, Old Catholic Theology, Orthodox Theology, Religious Education, Religious Studies, or a related field. The official admission information also requires in-depth knowledge of a Christian denomination evidenced by at least 60 ECTS or comparable prior study; the one-year track requires at least 240 CP in the prior degree, while the extended two-year track requires at least 180 CP.

APS Certificate

Yes

Mandatory internship

Yes

Tuition fee

None

Semester contribution

345.07 EUR per semester for Summer Semester 2026 according to the official University of Bonn costs page.

ECTS credits

120

Funding info

Tuition: None Semester contribution: 345.07 EUR per semester for Summer Semester 2026 according to the official University of Bonn costs page.

The official MESt employment page lists doctoral study and higher education as well as ecumenical activism, ecumenical relations coordination, religious journalism, editing for religious publishing houses, educational and research institutions, and university administration.