Professional Higher Education in Theology
The general objectives of the curriculum are to acquire basic competencies in different fields of classical theology and to create prerequisites for working in positions requiring basic theological knowledge. The qualification awarded is professional higher education and the scope of the curriculum is 180 ETC with a study periood of three years. In the framework of the curriculum, there are three possibilities for specialization: in Lutheran theology; in pastoral care; in Orthodox theology.
The specialization in Lutheran theology enables to acquire professional knowledge and basic skills in order to continue studies with the aim of working as an ordained priest in the EELC (further presuppositions for ordination are MA in Theology and one-year-course in Pastoral Seminary); the specialization in pastoral care enables to acquire professional knowledge and basic skills for working in institutions that demand respective professional skills, e.g. in hospitals, care institutions, crisis centers, congregations, etc.; the specialization in Orthodox theology enables to acquire professional knowledge and basic skills to work as a clergyman in the Orthodox Church and is carried out in cooperation with the Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church.
Master of Arts Program in Theology
(The degree awarded: MA in Theology)
The purpose of master’s studies is to provide in-depth specialised theological education and competencies for working in professions which require higher theological education. The Master’s degree is also one of the admissions requirements for the Pastoral Seminary and a prerequisite for doctoral studies.
General theological studies are followed by theological studies in a specialised minor program.
The study period is two years and is divided into study sessions.
In the MA study program in theology the students have a possibility to choose between two specialties: advanced study of theology (45 ECTS), or diaconia and pastoral care (45 ECTS). The aim of the specialized study in the field of diaconia and pastoral care is to provide training in various fields of ecclesiastical social and pastoral care work. Beside the needs of churches and congregations for pastoral care workers, the Estonian Ministry of Social Affairs has established an ecumenical hospital chaplaincy, which also has an increasing need for chaplains having professional education in the field of pastoral care.
MA Program in Studies in Christian Culture
(The degree awarded: MA in Theology (Studies in Christian Culture)).
The purpose of the master’s studies in Christian Culture is to give a broad academic overview of European and Estonian Christian culture and its formation, the role of Christianity in the formation of European identity and the influence of both Christian and other religious understandings on Western history and philosophy. The studies provide competencies for working in professions which require the knowledge of Christian culture (media, education, cultural establishments etc.). Completion of the program opens up the possibility to enter doctoral studies. The study period is two years and is divided into study sessions.