Institut für Diakoniewissenschaft und DiakonieManagement 

The Institute for Diaconal Science and Diaconal Management [IDWM] is a university institution with the authority to award doctorates and habilitations in the field of diaconal science. The emphasis is on corporate and diaconal management issues. Since January 1, 2022, the IDWM has been a part of Bielefeld University. The IDWM prepares executives from diakonia, church, health, and social economy to manage church and social organizations across the country. Our students have extensive leadership experience and degrees in theology, social pedagogy, humanities, economics, and social sciences. They come from various countries and contexts (Europe, Africa, and Asia). Students will further continue their education at the IDWM through compact seminars, master's programs, or doctoral programs. A multidisciplinary team of lecturers from science and practice creates the courses. The IDWM provides an interdisciplinary and diversely networked space for contemplation and reflection on diaconal corporate management and current social action challenges. The IDWM is developing diaconal science as an interdisciplinary, application-oriented science through application-oriented research projects at three chairs, international visiting professorships, dissertations, and habilitations. Their extensive scientific library aids in theology and diaconal studies research and teaching. The IDWM is a part of a diverse diaconal educational landscape in Bielefeld-Bethel. It maintains close ties with diaconal companies across the country, as well as other research and educational institutions. It provides a broad national and international network of scientists, alumni, and other church and diaconal cooperation partners. In this way, the IDWM works close to practical questions in a broad interdisciplinary horizon and in contact with diaconal traditions and roots.