Systematic Theology track
A Master of Theology, with a specialization in Systematic Theology, Master of Arts.
Short Summary
The master’s programme in Theology offers a well-rounded and advanced education with two specializations: biblical studies and systematic theology. Both specializations include training in core skills in theology and the humanities. If you specialize in systematic theology, you will learn about the main tenets of the Christian doctrinal tradition and the relations between theology, politics, and ethics. You will study in close contact with internationally recognized teachers active in research and leaders in their field.
About the Programme
How faith works globally, the role of faith in politics and public debate, questions of justice, and the nature of our postsecular condition are all areas where we equip you to participate with knowledge, skill, and understanding. You will develop an understanding of how you can provide leadership in these politically complex situations. Furthermore, we address the relation between science and religion and explore the deep-rooted system tying them together from the very origins of science.
We also delve deep and investigate the 2000-year-old continuous tradition of Christian thought and practice - the theological tradition and its consequences. Our programme is designed to provide you with an advanced and well-rounded understanding of theology. You can choose to specialize in biblical studies or systematic theology, but common to both is the critical investigation of a rich heritage with a view to contemporary concerns.
Regular contact with teachers in an international learning environment
We stand out from other theological programmes by providing regular contact with teachers throughout your courses and thesis work. Our teachers are leaders in their fields with international connections and broad experience in research from different parts of the world, such as Stellenbosch, Heidelberg, Cambridge, Princeton, Durham, and St. Andrews. Seminars and active discussions with fellow students and teachers characterize our academic environment.
You will also benefit from our exchange programme with the Theological Faculty at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, enriching your education with visiting teachers and South African students. The exchange programme allows us to send one student each term from Sweden to South Africa.
Create a unique profile for yourself
We offer a large number of courses, ensuring a well-rounded theological education while also providing space to follow your own particular research interests. The programme includes a mandatory course - Hermeneutics, Theology, and the Uses of the Bible - that students of both specializations take together.
You will then choose elective courses, from our recommendations or according to your motivations. You will write your master’s thesis throughout the second year in parallel to course work, allowing you to hone your writing and research skills and produce a more competent thesis. This provides an excellent foundation for further advanced work in theology, such as doctoral work.
Specializing in Systematic Theology
The Systematic Theology specialization has a twofold focus: exploring the main tenets of the Christian doctrinal tradition, and the relations between theology, politics, and ethics. Here are some examples of electives you can choose from to create your unique profile:
• Theology and Church Life in Africa
• Theology and Science: Common Roots, Conflicts, and Conversations
• Ethics, Theology, and Society
• Spirit and Community: Pneumatology and the Doctrine of the Church
Who Should Apply?
Are you interested in the relations between theology, politics, and ethics?
Do you want to deepen your knowledge of Christian doctrinal tradition and explore its influence in the contemporary world?
Are you intrigued by how very ancient traditions are related to contemporary questions and problems?
Are you passionate about questions of faith and meaning and want to explore existential questions as you learn?
If this sounds like you, then apply for the master’s programme in Theology specializing in systematic theology.
Content and Structure
The programme includes a mandatory methods course, common for students of both specializations, and a series of elective courses influenced by your specialization. We recommend course packages for each specialization, but you may supplement with other courses from our large offering. You may focus entirely on systematic theology or take courses in biblical studies or another relevant field, such as the history of religions or sociology of religions.
The second year is dedicated to your master’s thesis, which you develop with support from teachers and fellow students. You will choose your topic in dialogue with a supervisor who has expert knowledge and will guide you through the process. Taking courses and participating in seminars while you write your thesis results in a more competent and research-oriented thesis, which provides a stepping stone into further research, and also for writing and discussing texts at a high level in non-academic careers.
After Graduation
Graduates of the programme receive the degree Master of Arts in Theology with a specialization in systematic theology.
While our programme emphasizes preparing you for further research, the skills you develop throughout the programme are also applicable in non-academic careers, such as church ministry, policy making, and nongovernmental organizations. You will be equipped with the understanding and ability to provide intellectual leadership in a variety of contexts.