Course Description:

Liberal theologies of the 20th century often called for more tolerance of LGBTIQ+ people in religious and church contexts. Instead of heteronormative tolerance, queer theologies put the focus on the binary structures that classify and subordinate people into male and female, hetero and homo, cis and trans etc. When queer theories, theology and theological ethics of sexuality are put in dialogue the dialogue presumes full acceptance and inclusion of the experiences, culture and practices of LGBTIQ+ people in theology and the life of the churches. Thus, queer theologies offer critique of heteronormativity and binary structures in practices and institutions of church and academy and and offer constructive approaches to a wider understanding of sexuality and gender expression in the context of theology and religious institutions.

The course content is related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in various ways, especially Goals 3, 5 and 16.

See the course in the UI course catalogue here.

Learning outcomes:

Upon completion of the course the following criteria shall have been met. The student can:

• Demonstrate a basic understanding of the main tenets of queer theologies
• Discuss some core texts of the theological tradition in light of the critique of heteronormative thinking
• Show how ideas of sexuality and gender shape religious norms beliefs and practices
• Position oneself, own religious beliefs and/or view of humanity in light of queer theologies
• Reflect and discuss with sensitivity complex and social issues connected to sexuality and gender
• Contribute to informed dialogue within the field from the perspective of theological ethics and systematic theology by listening and using fair and sound arguments
• Learn from feedback and finish projects within given time and in accordance to academic standards.

Course schedule and assessment:

• Course schedule:
  • Weekly lessons twice a week (90 mins per lesson) for six weeks from 1 March 16 April
  • Please note that classes will be scheduled on Icelandic time (GMT +0)
• Mode of study:
  • Distance learning with real -time participation in online meetings The classes are on Zoom. In addition to lectures, students participate by giving lectures, taking part in discussions and working in breakout-rooms and on whiteboards in class.
• Assessment:
  • Assessment is 70% assignments during the semester and 30% home exam. Students need to pass all assignments with minimum grade of 5 to be able to take the final exam.
  • Students will receive a transcript of records upon completion of the course.

Application procedure:

Students apply via the University of Iceland’s application portal.

All students must attach to their application:

• a copy of their current transcript from their home institution
• and the information page of their passport or another form of valid travel ID to their application.

Application deadline is 1 December 2026.

Applications will be answered by 15 December. All relevant information will be sent to accepted students, with acceptance letters and instructions on how to access the Canvas online learning platform.