Master
German
Social Sciences
Pastoral Ministry
Master of Arts (M.A.)
About the Program
With the Master's programme in Pastoral Ministry, the University of Passau provides a new path into pastoral care and related professions, based in the Christian tradition. The programme is designed to enable Church volunteers and people looking for a career change to gain the required qualifications. The Master's programme helps you gain an in-depth proficiency in applied theology, in order to prepare you for taking on 21st century pastoral duties. Additionally, you will learn techniques for pastoral counselling and you'll apply yourself to your personal spiritual growth. You'll apply the skills you attain in required internships alongside your studies and you'll write a Master's thesis reflecting on the course teachings at an academic level. The programme can be completed full time (in 4 semesters) or part-time (in 8 semesters), alongside your job or family commitments. Teaching will primarily take place online (pre-recorded, as live session, or on-site with remote participants via video conferencing).
▶ Show the original English text
With the Master's programme in Pastoral Ministry, the University of Passau provides a new path into pastoral care and related professions, based in the Christian tradition. The programme is designed to enable Church volunteers and people looking for a career change to gain the required qualifications. The Master's programme helps you gain an in-depth proficiency in applied theology, in order to prepare you for taking on 21st century pastoral duties. Additionally, you will learn techniques for pastoral counselling and you'll apply yourself to your personal spiritual growth. You'll apply the skills you attain in required internships alongside your studies and you'll write a Master's thesis reflecting on the course teachings at an academic level. The programme can be completed full time (in 4 semesters) or part-time (in 8 semesters), alongside your job or family commitments. Teaching will primarily take place online (pre-recorded, as live session, or on-site with remote participants via video conferencing).
Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?
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How do I apply to Pastoral Ministry at Universität Passau?
Most international applicants apply via uni-assist (document verification + APS for some countries). Prepare your secondary/Bachelor diploma, transcripts, language certificate (DSH/TestDaF or IELTS/TOEFL), motivation letter and CV. Non-EU students also need a Sperrkonto (~11,904 EUR/year) for the visa.
- Check requirements — Verify your degree is recognised + meet language/grade thresholds.
- Get language certificate — TestDaF / DSH for German programmes, IELTS / TOEFL for English.
- Submit via uni-assist (non-EU) — Document review + APS if your country requires it (China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, etc.).
- Apply directly or via uni portal — Some universities accept direct applications — check the official programme page.
- Open Sperrkonto + apply for visa — After admission, deposit 11,904 EUR, get health insurance, book embassy appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about Pastoral Ministry at Universität Passau
Is Pastoral Ministry at Universität Passau taught in German or English? ▼
This Master programme is taught in German. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.
How much does the Pastoral Ministry programme cost? ▼
No tuition fee (only semester contribution). International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.
What are the admission requirements for Pastoral Ministry at Universität Passau? ▼
Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (German), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).
When is the application deadline? ▼
Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.
Can I work in Germany while studying Pastoral Ministry? ▼
Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.
How do I apply to Universität Passau — directly or via uni-assist? ▼
Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.