Dual Study Programs in Germany

Pursuing a dual degree in Germany opens the door to the world of theoretical as well as practical knowledge. In this article, we will discuss in detail about the dual study programs in Germany, its advantages and disadvantages, whether it is applicable fo international students, and more. 

A dual study program is a special type of course to study in Germany, where students go to college and also work in a company. This helps students get both theoretical knowledge and practical skills at the same time. You will spend part of your time attending lectures and the other part working at the company. The idea is that you can earn a degree and also learn how real jobs work. This is useful when you start looking for jobs after graduation.

So a dual study program in Germany is when a student pursuing an undergraduate or postgraduate study can opt to combine his/her degree program in Germany with practical (vocational) training. In Germany, after completing dual study programs, one can expect to receive a monthly salary that generally ranges from €900 to €1,500 gross during their studies. The average starting salary is around €1,000 per month.

What Qualifies as a Dual Degree Program in Germany?

So in this section, we are going to explore how dual degree programs in Germany are different from regular programs that involve candidates graduating with a bachelor’s or a master’s degree.

• Practical experience would be a major component of the dual degree program in Germany.
• Pursuing a dual study program in Germany would require candidates to learn at two places, the university for academic knowledge and the premises of the company for vocational training. Candidates must sign a contract with the company before their practical training.
• Universities offering dual degree programs would have to be state-accredited as higher education institutions that are allowed to offer dual study programs to enrolled students and follow a standard academic model. Meaning, students who have pursued a dual degree at the UG level should be able to pursue a purely academic postgraduate course without any hassle.
• Dual study programs in Germany would yield a dual degree qualification. Meaning, a candidate would be awarded a graduate degree for completing his academic course and an officially recognized vocational training certificate for undertaking practical work experience with a company.

Types of Dual Study Programs in Germany

Dual study programs in Germany can be broadly classified into three types:

1. In the Career-integrated dual study program, academic education is combined with vocational training. The learning content of the two forms of training is connected in this model. Here students are full-time employed and learn largely through self-study like a distance learning course.
2. In the Practice-integrated dual study program, phases of academic learning are alternated with practical training in a company. The content of the courses at the higher education institution and the content of the practical training is related. Students are awarded a first degree that qualifies them to practice a profession, but not a qualification in a recognised occupation requiring vocational training.
3. In the Training-integrated dual program in Germany, the study phases and vocational training are linked in terms of time and content. The degree program is combined with training in a recognised occupation requiring formal training.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Dual Study program in Germany

In this section, we are going to be looking at a critical comparison of the pros and cons of the dual degree program in Germany

Dual Study programs in Germany – How do they work

The dual study programs in Germany could basically follow two models. One is where you are required to educationally commit during your academic semester along with the regular students and then start work in a company during your semester break. This is often referred to as the block model.

The second model is when your week would be divided into two, where you would be spending a certain number of days devoted to academic learning, and the remaining time of the week you would be spending at the company, completing your vocational training. Do note that in this model, the employer, the company, and your academic institution are required to work in close coordination so that you are benefiting from the week model and not overburdening yourself.

Can International Students Apply for Dual Programs in Germany?

Yes, international students can apply for dual study programs in Germany. But you need to keep a few things in mind:

• Most programs are in German, so you need a B2 or C1 level in the German language.
• You must have a contract with a company before you apply.
• You need a student visa, and sometimes a work permit, depending on your country.
• English-taught dual programs are very few.

So, if you don’t speak German yet, it's good to start learning early.

International students from India looking to enrol in dual study programs in Germany may be required to pay an extra fee depending on the university, and may need to apply for the appropriate visa when enrolling for dual study in Germany. International students would also be required to have excellent German language skills to fully commit to dual study in Germany. Candidates can get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors for assistance on the same.

Documents required for a dual degree program in Germany

When applying for a double degree program in Germany, you will have to submit the following documents:

• Secondary school-leaving certificate for Bachelor’s programmes OR Bachelor’s degree for Master’s programmes
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL scores) for English-taught degree programs
• German language proficiency certificate for courses taught partially/fully in the German language
• GPA (if required)
• Cover letter
• Updated CV/Resume with your photograph
• Employment contract with a cooperating company
• Reference letters from previous employers

There is no denying that dual study programs in Germany have gained popularity. It not only allows students to graduate with an academic degree but also allows students to engage in practical skill building, culminating in an officially recognized vocational certificate. This in turn lets students be at the receiving end of excellent job opportunities.

Students enrolled in dual programs not only have a network with a company and a university but are considered highly qualified specialists. Students also receive a salary throughout their studies which help with their Blocked Account in Germany (living costs in Germany). However, students should not overlook the high work pressure that the dual study program entails.