Description
The Degree in Theology provides high-level academic training in the field of Theology, with emphasis on the Orthodox Christian tradition, Biblical studies, dogmatics, ecclesiastical history, Christian ethics, and the study of religion in relation to culture and society. The program also includes an optional Teaching and Pedagogical Competence qualification. The Degree in Theology corresponds to: Level 6 of the National Qualifications Framework (EOPPEP).
Relation to Employment
Graduates of the Department of Theology of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki possess the academic training required for employment in public and private secondary education, for service as clergy, as well as for staffing social welfare and other structures of the Holy Metropolises. In addition, they may work in scientific, cultural, and social organizations, as well as in institutions and bodies of the public or private sector. Graduates of the Degree in Theology are classified under the
Access Requirements / Progression Opportunities
Admission to the program requires a high school diploma and successful participation in national-level examinations.
Knowledge
Graduates of the undergraduate study programme of the Department of Theology, depending on the courses and practical training they have chosen, are able to understand the historical, social, and cultural significance of religious traditions; to critically comprehend the mechanisms through which religious belief may influence and shape the moral views and behaviour of individuals and communities; to know the ways in which specific religions and religious institutions are structured and organized; to critically understand the interaction between the Orthodox Tradition, other Christian denominations, religions, and societies, both in history and in the contemporary world; to critically understand social reality, and especially its problems; to critically comprehend the dialogue between religious traditions and philosophical systems; and to be familiar with the methodology of the various branches of theological and religious studies, as well as with the nature of theological research and reflection.
Skills
Graduates of the undergraduate study programme of the Department of Theology, depending on the courses and practical training they have chosen, are able to apply in practice the knowledge they have acquired regarding the complexity of different mentalities, social behaviours, and aesthetic responses, as well as the interaction of theological ideas, religious beliefs, values, sacred texts, forms of art, social realities, and politics. They are also able to participate in dialogue between religious traditions and philosophical systems, to communicate orally and in writing using the terminology and techniques accepted in the relevant profession, to convey theological and religious concepts to the wider public, and to apply in practice the theory of teaching theological and religious subjects.
Competences
Graduates of the undergraduate study programme of the Department of Theology, depending on the courses and practical training they have chosen, are able to approach issues of gender and equal opportunities with sensitivity, to act in accordance with ethics and professional conduct, to evaluate new and evolving forms of religious beliefs and practices with an ecumenical spirit and a disposition for reconciliation, to read texts critically within their historical context and make the necessary connections to contemporary reality, to apply theological knowledge in professional and social life with respect for human rights and European values, and to approach issues of social prejudice and exclusion with sensitivity.