How does the higher education system work?The two major types of institution likely to be of most interest to UK graduates looking for postgraduate courses are the research-led universities and the more vocationally-oriented Fachhochschulen. This distinction is different from that between different types of university in the UK. back to top What courses are available?- Traditionally, first Magister degrees covered the same depth as Masters elsewhere (and the title of MA), meaning that few German graduates took higher degrees unless they were researching for a Doctorate.
- Since 1998, increasing numbers of more recognisable Bachelors and Masters degrees have been offered.
- Fachhochschulen offer Postgraduale Studiengangen, supplementary and follow-up courses, which either provide professional skills built on the first degree or lead to increased specialisation. These formal courses are usually taken immediately after or even during the initial course of studies.
- Universities have a wide range of Doctoral research programmes.
- Some courses in engineering, sciences and business studies are taught in English.
back to top Where can I study?back to top What are the entry requirements for postgraduate study?Generally speaking, UK first degrees are accepted in lieu of German Diplom or Bachelors degrees for admission to Masters courses, but are not considered equivalent to the Magister. In such cases, it may be necessary to complete a further qualification such as a UK Masters. If you have questions about this, it is best to contact the international office of any university in which you are interested. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) has a list of these offices on its website. back to top When do I apply?Applications are generally accepted from the beginning of the calendar year in which you intend to start studying, with deadlines in late spring or summer. back to top How do I apply?- Applications must be made directly to individual institutions, using the lists detailed above.
- Applications are usually accepted online, although paper copies of academic certificates and transcripts along with other supporting documentation will have to be posted.
- A CV is usually requested, along with a personal statement.
back to top How much will it cost?- Fees range from €650 to several thousand Euros per semester, plus a registration fee of €50-€250, which is payable every semester. Health insurance, which costs around €280 per semester, is compulsory. Check with individual universities for more specific tuition and fee information.
- As well as the course fees, an estimated minimum monthly budget is €660, with books and other study materials in addition. While it is possible to live frugally for this amount, it is a bare minimum and more should be set aside if at all possible.
back to top Are any scholarships available?- The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers one-year scholarships for Doctoral research, which can also be used to support Masters courses.
- DAAD also provides information on scholarships from other foundations.
- Individual institutions also often have some scholarships available.
back to top Are there any exchange programmes?Many German institutions are participants in the Erasmus programme. back to top Will my qualification be recognised in the UK?The newer Masters qualifications are equivalent to those in the UK. For vocational or technical programmes at other levels, it is worth checking with relevant professional bodies in the UK first to see what equivalence they hold.
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Germany: Postgraduate study
