The educational system in German Universities is public and free-state form with a traditional pattern of organizational structure that dates back to the 19 th century. There are less number of private universities or colleges that functions according to stringent regulations and reforms.
In public German Universities have a numerous choices of program of study, guided and supervised by individual choice of professors or advisors. The students make their own choice of subject for research and teaching. Although there are no fixed classes segmented for each program, students are liable to study and graduate together after the completion of the duration of course. It is according to the individual's option to shift from one university to the other to meet their own career objectives and goals. Some may even attend two or more German Universities in the course of their studies.
Most of the male incoming students of a German University are compelled to serve three-fourth of a year in military or alternative services, known as Zivildienst before attending classes.
Inspite of having specified curricula in sciences or liberal arts field, for the first two years, all students has the right to choose lectures and seminars based on their convenience of time and day. Public German Schools have final examinations at the end of the course, which can be after 4 years or a maximum of 10 years.
Some of the main type of degrees or diplomas available at German Schools and Universities:
- 2 years Zwischenprüfung/Vordiplom
- 4-6 years Diplom (in the sciences) / Magister (in the arts) equivalent to M. Sc. / M.A. / Magister Artium.
- Fachhochschulen or Universities of Applied Science that is pots Abitur Universities training.
Types of German Universities :
- Fachhochschulen / Universities of Applied Sciences
- Colleges of Art, Film and Music comprising colleges of music, colleges of art and colleges of film.
Private German Universities have a better teaching method with features like:
- Study in small disciplined groups
- Strong ties with allied business and industry
- Emphasizing practical experiences and exposure
- Strong international orientation
- Short studies
- Good career prospects
Graduates of private Universities in Germany have the advantage in the global platform, with plenty of practical experience at home and abroad during the course of the program.
There are only 63 Private Universities in Germany with high tuition fees that are becoming every year a better alternative for both international and German prospective students.
