Theologische Hochschule Friedensau (THF), located in the serene village of Friedensau near Möckern in Sachsen-Anhalt, Germany, stands as Europe's primary theological seminary for the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Founded in 1925, this private university of applied sciences has evolved into a vibrant center for theological education, social pedagogy, and health sciences. With around 700 students from over 50 countries, THF fosters a multicultural environment dedicated to preparing leaders for church ministry, education, and social services. Jobs at Theologische Hochschule Friedensau attract professionals passionate about faith-integrated academia, offering roles that blend rigorous scholarship with spiritual mission.
The institution's campus, nestled in a picturesque rural setting 30 kilometers from Magdeburg and an hour from Berlin, provides a tranquil backdrop for academic pursuits. THF's programs are state-accredited, ensuring high standards in bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Prospective employees will find opportunities in teaching, research, and administration, all aligned with Adventist values emphasizing holistic development, Sabbath observance, and community service.
Established as a Bible school in 1925 by Adventist pioneers, THF gained university status in 2000. Its history reflects resilience through World War II and German reunification, maintaining its focus on practical theology. Today, jobs at Theologische Hochschule Friedensau support its mission to equip students for global ministry, with emphasis on biblical studies, pastoral care, and intercultural competence. The university's library houses over 100,000 volumes, supporting research in theology and related fields.
THF's commitment to the Seventh-day Adventist ethos shapes its hiring, prioritizing candidates who share or respect its Christian worldview. This has led to a stable faculty dedicated to mentoring international students.
THF offers degrees in Theology (BA, MA, PhD), Social Pedagogy, Health and Nutrition Sciences, and Religious Education. Departments include Biblical Studies, Practical Theology, Church History, and Systematic Theology. Jobs at Theologische Hochschule Friedensau often involve teaching in these areas, such as leading seminars on Adventist doctrines or supervising theses on mission studies.
Faculty roles contribute to innovative curricula, like online modules for global reach. For insights into university job types, explore common positions across institutions.
Career openings at THF span faculty, research, and support roles. Professor jobs require expertise in theology, while lecturer jobs suit early-career academics. Research assistant jobs involve projects on biblical archaeology or ethics. Administrative positions in student services or library management also arise. Recent listings include positions in intercultural theology, reflecting THF's global student body.
In Sachsen-Anhalt's higher education landscape, THF jobs stand out for their faith-based focus, contrasting with secular universities. Salaries align with German public sector scales, around €50,000-€80,000 for professors, with benefits like housing allowances.
For faculty and research positions at Theologische Hochschule Friedensau, a doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent) in theology, religious studies, or a related discipline is mandatory. Ordination in the Seventh-day Adventist Church or equivalent ministerial experience is often required for pastoral theology roles. Teaching qualifications, such as a state teaching license for education programs, are essential. International applicants must have degree equivalency recognized by German authorities via ANABIN database.
Entry-level research assistant jobs may accept master's holders with strong academic records. All positions demand proficiency in German (C1 level) and English.
THF prioritizes research in Adventist theology, practical ministry, social ethics, and health promotion. Expertise in biblical languages (Hebrew, Greek), church history, or missiology is highly valued. Current projects explore digital evangelism and sustainability in faith communities. Candidates with publications in journals like Andrews University Seminary Studies or grants from Adventist organizations excel.
Collaboration with international Adventist networks offers funding opportunities, making THF attractive for research jobs.
Preferred experience includes 3-5 years in pastoral or academic roles, peer-reviewed publications (5+), and grant management. Skills encompass public speaking, cross-cultural communication, and digital tools for theology teaching. Competencies like team leadership, student mentoring, and German ecclesiastical knowledge are key. For professor jobs, prior supervision of dissertations is advantageous.
To apply for jobs at Theologische Hochschule Friedensau, visit the university's career portal or email bewerbung@thf-friedensau.de with a tailored CV, motivation letter, transcripts, and references. The process includes screening, interviews (potentially with theological discussions), and reference checks, lasting 4-8 weeks.
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THF actively promotes diversity through scholarships for students from developing countries and inclusive hiring policies. The International Office supports faculty from 50+ nations, with programs like intercultural workshops. Women in leadership roles, such as department heads, exemplify commitment. As part of the Adventist network, THF adheres to equality principles, hosting events like diversity seminars. This creates a welcoming environment for global talent in higher ed jobs.
THF emphasizes work-life balance with a 40-hour week, generous vacation (30 days), and Sabbath as a rest day—no classes or work. Campus life features family housing, sports facilities, a cafeteria with vegetarian options (Adventist tradition), and community events like vespers. Proximity to Elbe River offers outdoor activities; Berlin commutes are feasible. Faculty enjoy spiritual retreats and professional development sabbaticals every seven years, fostering renewal. In Möckern's calm setting, employees report high satisfaction, balancing rigorous academics with personal growth.
Jobs at Theologische Hochschule Friedensau offer meaningful impact in faith-based education, stable employment in Germany's secure academic sector, and a supportive community. With low turnover and growth in online programs, opportunities abound. Explore more higher ed jobs, career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com. For lecturer roles, see how to become a university lecturer.
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