Information for prospective students

Baptism or membership of the Catholic Church are not necessary. The study of Catholic religion/theology requires a basic knowledge of theology and philosophy at A-level.

Becoming a teacher of Catholic religion at a school is a different case to studying. Here, baptism and confirmation are required, as well as the willingness to credibly teach religion in accordance with the teachings of the Catholic Church as part of the school's educational mission, and the willingness to bear witness to Christian life in school and class in order to obtain the so-called Missio Canonica .

Teachers who wish to teach Catholic religion need this in addition to the subject-specific and didactic qualifications they acquire during their studies. It is awarded by the local bishop. This requires the willingness to teach religious education credibly in accordance with the teachings of the Catholic Church within the framework of the school's educational mission and the willingness to bear witness to Christian life in school and class.

Here you will find information from the Diocese of Dresden/Meißen on the Missio Canonica.

Here you will find additional information on the mentorate.

All those who wish to teach the subject of religion at a school in Germany require both the necessary qualifications (1st state examination / Master of Education, 2nd state examination) and authorization from the respective religious community, in the case of the Catholic Church this is the Missio Canonica for teaching the subject of Catholic religion.

Yes, anyone can study Catholic theology. People who want to teach Catholic religion at schools need to have completed a teaching degree with Catholic religion as a subject as well as the Missio Canonica (see question 4).