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CAS Ageing as a Topic of Philosophical and Theological Anthropology


Questions about the meaning of life and death are of particular interest to older and very elderly people. Answers to important questions about life cannot be given in general terms, but only through an examination of one’s personal life story and one’s own value system.

In the part-time certificate programme ‘Theology and Philosophy of Ageing’ (CAS), you will gain knowledge in the fields of religious education, as well as ethics and the philosophy of ageing. You will learn to reflect on perspectives – for example, on the ultimate questions of our lives – from a practical, ethical and interfaith perspective. The programme focuses on Christian and Islamic theology and the associated issues relating to ageing.

Currently suspended

We do not currently have any dates available for this CAS.

Application deadline
-
Duration of study
one term
Scope
15 CP
Qualification
CAS
Start of studies
-

Target audience


The programme is aimed at those who support (older) learners, both individually and in groups, and who wish to expand their skills to include geragogical aspects. It is aimed at professionals who work in adult education, religious education, or in social, ethical and theological fields, either on a full-time or voluntary basis.

Career prospects


Upon completion of the certificate course, you will be qualified for

  • roles in educational, counselling and social services organisations;
  • roles in cultural and theological adult education.

Entry requirements


The entry requirements for the certificate programme are

  • a first degree or proof that the required qualification has been obtained by other means;
  • as a rule, at least one year’s professional experience in the education sector.

We would be happy to advise you on this.

Application


  • Bewerbungsformular für das CAS "Theologie und Philosophie des Alters"

    File type/size
    .pdf / 162 KB
    Language
    German

Please send your application and the required documents by email to the Centre for Academic Continuing Education.

Legal basis

Organisational consultancy

Organisation

Karlsruhe University of Education

Building

2

Room

A023

Learning outcomes and skills


By the end of the certificate programme, you will be able to:

  • apply in-depth theoretical knowledge of age-related issues and discourses in religious education, philosophy and ethics in a practical context;
  • use educational methods with a view to interfaith exchange, particularly with regard to Muslim–Christian dialogue;
  • support older and dying people in their educational process and to involve them meaningfully; and 
  • critically examine theoretical concepts with regard to their applicability in practical educational work.
  • Module Handbook: ‘Theology and Philosophy of Ageing’ (CAS), as at 31 March 2023

    File type/size
    .pdf / 596 KB
    Language
    German

The selection of topics is excellent and varied.

Absolventin des CAS

Course structure and dates


The certificate programme (15 CP) is undertaken on a part-time basis, concludes with a written examination and lasts one semester. It comprises three face-to-face sessions, supplemented by digital modules and self-study periods. All face-to-face sessions take place at weekends – on Fridays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and on Saturdays from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Module componentCPDate
Ethics of ageing and other issues in the philosophy of ageing: philosophical anthropology, ontology and axiology of ageing and death, mortality, the right to self-determination, ethics of dementia, inter- and intragenerational justice, age discrimination5Summer Term
Practical (Christian) Theology and Issues of Ageing: Religion, religiosity and spirituality, fundamental concepts of Christianity, anthropology from a Christian-theological perspective, religion as a resource in old age, axiology of death5Summer Semester
Ageing in Islam – systematic and pragmatic issues: anthropology from the perspective of Islamic theology, fundamental issues of ageing from a practical-theological perspective, the axiology of death5Summer semester

Study Management

Organisation

Karlsruhe University of Education

Building

2

Room

B208

Availability

By arrangement

Advice on content

Organisation

Karlsruhe University of Education

Building

2

Room

B304

Availability

By arrangement via email

Fees


The total fee is 1,300 euros. This includes the following services:

  • Face-to-face seminars and e-learning modules,
  • advice and support from the lecturers throughout all stages of the course,
  • use of the university’s information and communication platform, and
  • a recognised certificate (Certificate of Advanced Studies) upon successful completion of the programme.

Legal basis for fees

Any questions?


Our Centre for Academic Continuing Education is here to advise you on all matters relating to admission, the organisation of your studies, funding and the recognition of prior learning.

Centre of Continuing Education

Contact point

Organisation

Karlsruhe University of Education

Building

2

Room

A023

Updated on 22 October 2026 by Central Web Editorial Office