Courses and degrees in Germany
German degrees follow the standard European structure of Bachelor, Master and PhD. There's a strong tradition in engineering and the sciences, and the number of English-taught master's programmes has grown enormously — so you don't always need German to study here.
Levels of study
Bachelor's degree
Usually 3 years (6 semesters); the standard first degree at German universities.
Master's degree
Typically 1–2 years. Many programmes are taught entirely in English.
PhD (Promotion)
Doctoral research, often pursued alongside a position at a university or institute.
Popular courses
Bachelor of Computer Science in Germany
Bachelor's 3 years (6 semesters)
A foundational computing degree covering programming, theory and systems, taught at some of Germany's leading technical universities.
Bachelor of Science in Germany
Bachelor's 3 years
A broad undergraduate science degree spanning the natural sciences, taught at several of Germany's oldest and most research-intensive universities.
Master of Engineering in Germany
Master's 1–2 years
An advanced engineering qualification building on Germany's strong industrial base, offered at several of its leading technical universities.
MBA in Germany
Master's 1–2 years
A postgraduate management qualification for working professionals, combining core business theory with strong links to German industry and finance.
How you apply
- Many international applicants apply through uni-assist, which checks foreign qualifications on behalf of participating universities.
- German-taught programmes require German proficiency, usually evidenced by TestDaF or DSH.
- English-taught programmes require an English test such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- Once you're admitted, you can begin your visa or residence-permit application.
For where to study, see our guide to German universities and institutes, including the difference between universities and universities of applied sciences.
Official source: Study in Germany (DAAD).