Postgraduate education in Germany follows a common European format set out by the Bologna Process and the European Higher Education Area (EHEA).
German Masters degrees are ‘second cycle’ qualifications. They usually follow a Bachelor’s degree (first cycle) and may prepare a student for a PhD (third cycle).
Most Masters degrees in Germany are taught courses (postgraduate research is undertaken at PhD level). You will complete a series of academic modules, followed by an independent dissertation or project.
Masters courses in Germany
– German Masters programmes normally last for two years (or two to four semesters of study).
– Your full degree will be worth 120 ECTS credits. 90 of these will be earned through modules, coursework and exams. The remaining 30 will be awarded for your dissertation.
– As taught courses, most German Masters degrees award MA (Master of Arts) or MSc (Master of Science) qualifications. Alternative degree titles may be used for some specialized subjects.
– The main difference between programmes is the way you study them. German Masters degrees are classified as either consecutive or non-consecutive:
· Consecutive Masters degrees follow directly from a closely-related undergraduate degree. For example, you might study an MSc in Biochemistry after a BSc in Chemistry or Biology. These courses are usually free to study in Germany. This is the most common type of Master’s degree in Germany.
· Non-consecutive Masters degrees focus on a different or more highly specialized subject area, such as Business, Governance, or Law. These courses normally require practical or professional experience as well as an undergraduate degree. They are also more likely to charge fees.
Structure of a Masters in Germany
– Most German Masters degrees are organized into separate modules or other units of study.
– Depending on your course, you might learn through lectures, small-group seminars, practical workshops, fieldwork or directed independent study:
· An academic programme at a research university will probably involve a lot of core lectures and seminars. This will be supported by practical work in a laboratory or by independent study and reading.
· Programmes at Universities of Applied Science are often more professionally-oriented. They include hands-on training and workshops organized by external experts and industry figures.
· An artistic programme at a College of Art, Film and Music will be focused on developing and assessing your practical skills.