The Theology (English) undergraduate program at İstanbul University – Faculty of Theology provides a comprehensive education in religious studies, theology, philosophy, and related disciplines, taught fully in English. The program aims to train students to approach religious, historical and philosophical questions with academic rigour, equipping them with knowledge of religious texts, ethics, languages (e.g. classical languages), and critical thinking. Over eight semesters, students study theology, history, philosophy, social sciences and related fields, preparing for careers in academia, research, education, interfaith dialogue, religious institutions, or social services.
Situated in Istanbul — a city with deep historical, cultural and religious heritage — this program offers students a rich intellectual environment combining tradition and modern scholarship. The curriculum balances classical religious studies with contemporary issues, enabling graduates to engage thoughtfully both with historical religious traditions and modern societal challenges. The program is ideal for those seeking a globally minded theological education in English.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Theology
- Standard period of study: 4 years (8 semesters)
- Location: Istanbul
- Study Type: Undergraduate (full-time, English-taught)
- Admission semester: Fall semester
- Area of study: Theology, Religious Studies, Philosophy, History, Social Sciences
- Admission modus: National university entrance exam (YKS / relevant track)
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations: Language, Introduction to Theology & Social Sciences
- Introduction to Theology & Religious Studies
- Basics of World Religions / Comparative Religion
- History of Civilizations / Introduction to History
- Language studies / Classical Languages or foreign language
- Introductory courses in social sciences or humanities
Semester 2 – Theology & Historical Studies
- History of Religious Thought
- Religious Texts and Interpretation Methodologies
- Philosophy of Religion – Introduction
- Ethics and Moral Philosophy
- History of Religions / Religious History
Semester 3 – Classical & Scriptural Studies
- Study of Sacred Texts / Scriptural Hermeneutics
- Comparative Theology or Comparative Religion Studies
- Philosophy (Ancient / Medieval / Modern)
- History of Religious Institutions / Religious Communities
- Social Contexts of Religion / Sociology of Religion
Semester 4 – Theological Methodology & Modern Issues
- Theology Methodology and Religious Hermeneutics
- Contemporary Theology & Religious Thought
- Religion and Society / Sociology of Religion
- Electives (e.g. language, history, philosophy, social sciences)
Semester 5 – Specialization & Electives
- Ethics, Law & Religion / Religious Ethics
- History of Religions – advanced / regional religious studies
- Interfaith Studies / Comparative Religion Electives
- Elective courses (philosophy, history, languages, social sciences)
Semester 6 – Religion, Philosophy & Society
- Philosophy of Religion – advanced
- Religion and Modernity / Religion & Global Issues
- Religious Texts & Hermeneutics – advanced
- Electives: languages, social sciences, cultural studies
Semester 7 – Research & Applied Theology
- Research Methods in Theology / Religious Studies
- Seminar or Research Project on Religion, Society, or Ethics
- Elective courses (history, interreligious dialogue, cultural studies)
Semester 8 – Final Year – Thesis / Capstone & Graduation Preparation
- Graduation Project / Thesis in Theology or Religious Studies
- Contemporary Issues in Religion & Society
- Elective courses or specialization seminars
- Preparation for professional or academic career
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research, education, religious institutions, interfaith dialogue organizations, NGOs, social services, media, cultural institutions, or international organizations. They may also continue with postgraduate studies (master’s / PhD) in theology, religious studies, philosophy, history or related fields. The program’s blend of classical and modern religious-social education provides broad flexibility for work in both national and international contexts.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Theology (English) program at Istanbul University means joining a well-established Faculty of Theology offering deep, academically rigorous training in theology, philosophy and religious studies — delivered in English for international accessibility.
With an international language of instruction, a diverse curriculum, and the cultural richness of Istanbul as a backdrop, the program prepares students for meaningful careers in education, research, social engagement, interfaith work, or further academic studies — making it a strong option for those interested in religion, society, ethics, and global perspectives.
Contact Information
Istanbul University – Faculty of Theology
Saraçhane Campus, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: theology@istanbul.edu.tr
Faculty of Theology – Student Affairs Office
Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: theologyoffice@istanbul.edu.tr
International Office – Istanbul University
Beyazıt Campus, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 440 00 00
Email: international@istanbul.edu.tr
