The Free Theological University Gießen (Freie Theologische Hochschule Gießen, FTH) is a private, state-recognized evangelical seminary established in 1974 and located in Gießen, Hesse, Germany. The institution offers a three-year Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Theology, a two-year Master of Arts (M.A.) in Theology, and facilitates cooperative doctoral (Ph.D.) programs in theology.^[1] With an enrollment of approximately 225 students, FTH maintains a selective admission policy based on academic records and grades, with an acceptance rate ranging from 80 to 89%.^[2] The seminary is affiliated with the Christian-Evangelical religion and is officially recognized by the Hessian Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and the Arts.^[3]

The Free Theological University Gießen (Freie Theologische Hochschule Gießen, FTH) was established in 1974 as the Free Theological Academy (Freie Theologische Akademie, FTA) in Seeheim, beginning with eight students and three lecturers. In 1981, the institution relocated to Gießen, initially to Rathenaustraße, then to Schiffenberger Weg in 1986, and returning to Rathenaustraße in 2001. The academy achieved state recognition as a university of applied sciences in 2008, adopting the name FTH. Under the leadership of Rector Prof. Dr. Stephan Holthaus since 2016, FTH has continued to expand its academic offerings, including the introduction of a cooperative doctoral program in 2019. In 2022, the university completed the construction of a new main building, enhancing its campus facilities.^[4]

The Free Theological University Gießen (FTH) is situated in Gießen,^[5] Hesse, Germany, at Rathenaustraße 5–7. The campus encompasses facilities that support both academic learning and community life, including lecture halls, study spaces, and areas designated for worship and fellowship. Additionally, FTH houses a well-stocked theological library, providing a wide range of books, journals, and electronic resources to support the academic endeavors of its students and faculty. The campus is designed to foster a conducive environment for theological education and community engagement.^[6]

The Free Theological University Gießen (Freie Theologische Hochschule Gießen, FTH) offers structured programs in evangelical theology at both the bachelor's and master's levels.^[7]

• Duration: 6 semesters (3 years)
• Language of Instruction: German​^[8]

Curriculum Overview:

• Biblical Studies: Courses in Old and New Testament exegesis
• Systematic Theology: Exploration of doctrinal beliefs and ethical considerations
• Historical Theology: Study of church history and theological developments
• Practical Theology: Training in pastoral care, homiletics, and Christian education

Admission Requirements:

• General higher education entrance qualification or equivalent​
• Proficiency in German​^[9]

Tuition Fees: Approximately €3,210 per year

Duration: 4 semesters (2 years)

Language of Instruction: German​^[10]

Curriculum Overview:

• Advanced Biblical Exegesis: In-depth analysis of scriptural texts
• Theological Research: Engagement with contemporary theological issues
• Specialization Opportunities: Focused studies in areas such as missiology or ethics
• Research Module: Preparation and completion of a master's thesis

Admission Requirements:

• Completion of a B.A. in theology with 180 credit points​^[11]
• Language qualifications in Biblical Hebrew and Greek, including relevant knowledge of exegesis​
• Command of English​

Tuition Fees: Approximately €3,210 per year^[12]

Both programs integrate theoretical coursework with practical training, preparing students for various roles in church leadership, missions, and theological scholarship.

The Free Theological University Gießen (FTH) emphasizes both academic rigor and practical application, encouraging students to engage in research that addresses contemporary issues in theology and ministry.^[13] ​

Faculty Research Interests

Faculty members at FTH are actively involved in various research endeavors, contributing to the advancement of theological scholarship. For instance:

• Prof. Dr. Joel R. White: Specializes in New Testament studies, focusing on Pauline literature and the use of the Old Testament in the New Testament.^[14]
• Prof. Dr. Dr. habil. Bernd Wannenwetsch: Serves as an Honorary Professor for Systematic Theology and Ethics at FTH, with research interests in theological ethics, political ethics, and the theology of worship and music. ​
• Prof. Dr. Heiko Frank Wenzel: Formerly a professor at FTH, his research areas include Old Testament studies and Islamic studies. ​

Doctoral Research

FTH facilitates cooperative doctoral (Ph.D.) programs in theology, enabling students to pursue advanced research under the guidance of experienced faculty.^[15]

Research Dissemination

Research findings by FTH faculty and students are disseminated through various academic channels, including publications in scholarly journals, presentations at conferences, and contributions to edited volumes. This active engagement with the broader academic community reflects FTH's commitment to contributing to theological discourse and addressing contemporary issues in theology and ministry.

The Free Theological University Gießen (FTH) welcomes international students to its academic programs. As the primary language of instruction is German, applicants must demonstrate proficiency through standardized tests such as TestDaF or DSH. Admission requires a recognized high school diploma or equivalent qualification for university entrance in Germany, along with proof of language proficiency and the submission of necessary documents.^[16]