Profile

The Department of Theology comprises the following fields or disciplines: Old Testament, New Testament, Church History, Practical Theology, Ethics and Philosophy of Religion, and Dogmatics (including Ecumenism and Mission and Religion Theology). Consequently, the subjects covered are diverse: exegetical and literary readings of biblical texts, the historical development, dissemination, and expressions of Christianity, investigations into the content and practice of Christian faith in a global, multi-religious, or secularized world. Additionally, it includes reflections on ethical dilemmas and philosophical issues in religion, as well as the major existential questions about faith, love, death, despair, and hope.

The research competencies of the staff are based on a wide range of approaches: historical, philological, literary theoretical, philosophical, sociological, political, and psychological.

Research Environment

Theology at Aarhus University is highly regarded among theological research environments in Europe and attracts several internationally recognized researchers. Nationally and internationally, theology is strong in several areas such as Christianity in antiquity, Jewish studies, Reformation theology, empirical studies in church, theology and contemporary Christianity, bioethics, environmental and climate ethics, literature and theology, phenomenology and hermeneutics, as well as studies in N.F.S. Grundtvig, Søren Kierkegaard, Johannes Sløk, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and K.E. Løgstrup.

Researchers often work in interdisciplinary groups and networks with scholars from other fields such as religious studies, history and classical studies, philosophy and the history of ideas, literary studies, digital humanities, medicine, and social sciences.

Degree Programmes

In connection with the theological academic environment, Aarhus University offers bachelor's and master's degree programs in theology (cand. theol.) as well as a range of continuing and further education courses. This includes §1a courses as an alternative educational pathway for priesthood positions.