Aims and objectives of program studies

Objectives of the Study Program:

The main objectives of the curriculum are to prepare:

(a) Theologically trained and inspired clergymen to serve the Church of Cyprus in particular, and more generally, the Christian Orthodox Church,

(b) Theology teachers to be employed in secondary education as conscious members of the Orthodox Church,

(d) Graduates in the science of Theology, as well as in related sciences, who will continue their academic studies at postgraduate level.

Predicted learning Outcomes:

The graduates of the course in Theology (4 years, Bachelor’s) of the Theological School of the Church of Cyprus, with regard to the compulsory and selected courses, the internship and the Diploma Thesis they have chosen, will be able to demonstrate and promote the following knowledge, skills and competences:

A. Knowledge:

To be aware of the historical, social, and cultural significance of religious traditions.
To understand critically the mechanisms by which religious beliefs can influence and engender the moral perceptions and behaviour of individuals and communities.
To be aware of the ways in which particular religions and religious institutions are structured and organized.
To understand critically the interaction between Orthodox Tradition and other Christian denominations, religions and societies, both historically and in the modern world.
To understand critically social realities, and especially social problems.
To understand critically the dialogue between religious traditions and philosophical systems.
To be aware of the methodology of the various directions of Theological studies, as well as of the nature of theological research and reflection

B. Skills:

To implement on a practical level knowledge gained on the complexity of different attitudes, social behaviours and aesthetic responses, as well as on the interaction of theological ideas, religious beliefs, values, sacred texts, art forms, social conditions and politics.
To participate in discussions on religious and philosophical topics,
To employ scientific terminology and methods in their sermonizing and written essays.
To transmit theological knowledge to society.
To apply in practice the theories for teaching theological and religious subjects.
To use modern technology to collect information and data.
To know a second language.

C. Competences

To approach with sensitivity issues concerning gender, multiculturalism, social prejudice, exclusion and also the natural environment.
To act ethically and morally.
To evaluate new and evolving forms of religious beliefs and practices in a spirit of acceptance and universality.
To evaluate and engage with texts with a critical mind, taking into account their historical background and applying the appropriate critical approaches in contemporary society.
To respect human rights and European values on the basis of theological science.
To work autonomously or collectively in an international and / or interdisciplinary environment.
To have critical and self-critical skills.
To act with respect towards the community.
To promote free, productive and reasoned thinking.