A young guy sitting on a desk, classroom, and an office.

Dual Studies: Bridging Theory & Practice

WHAT ARE DUAL STUDIES?

Dual study programs are a perfect alternative for those who wish to experience vocational and academic education simultaneously and get the most out of both. This combination is offered by many German higher-education institutions with several opportunities at students’ disposal. The greatest thing about such program is that you can still participate in a university course but can also sign a contract with an employer. This allows you to gain professional work experience and lay the foundations of their future careers by establishing corporate contacts / relations.

How Dual Studies Can Shape Your Future

Dual studies offer a unique blend of academic learning and practical work experience, delivering numerous advantages that enhance both personal and professional development:

Real-World Experience: You gain practical skills and hands-on experience directly related to their field of study, making you well-prepared for the job market.
Enhanced Employability: Combining theoretical knowledge with practical application makes you more attractive to employers, increasing job prospects post graduation.
Financial Support: Many dual study programs provide a salary or stipend from partner companies, reducing financial burdens and allowing students to focus on their education. Some companies are willing to pay students not only for their work throughout the completion of the program but also their tuition fees.
Networking Opportunities: You build valuable professional connections early in your career, opening doors to future job opportunities and collaborations.
Career Clarity: Exposure to the industry helps you refine your career goals and make informed decisions about your professional path.
Academic Excellence: Dual study programs often include rigorous academic training, ensuring that you receive a high-quality education alongside your practical experiences.

Discover The 4 Types Of Dual Studies

There are four types of dual programs: training-integrated, practice-integrated, job-integrated, and job-accompanying. All four of them are available to both German and international students.

Training-integrated studies

A dual program that involves a training component is ideal for those who wish to combine a study course with vocational training in a recognized company. In addition to the university diploma one will also obtain first-hand experience and professional qualification. The latter will be assessed with an exam arranged by a particular Professional School. In order to enroll in a dual training-integrated program, you must have signed a contract for either training or internship and must have obtained a general university entrance qualification (Allgemeine Hochschulreife). The duration of this type of studies can vary from three to five years.

Key Facts:

Alternates between university coursework and vocational training
Typically involves weekly splits between university and company
Ensures a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical skills

Practice-integrated studies

This program is designed for those who have already passed a vocational training or have obtained professional experience elsewhere, and wish to develop already acquired skills. Such in-company practice allows you to grasp the working processes by working at different enterprises for several months or exploring certain departments of one particular company. The entry requirements here are similar to those for the training-integrated programs. However, for practice-integrated studies, apart from the university entrance qualification and the internship, and trainee contracts, you might also apply with a part-time employment contract. These types of courses are usually only three years long.

Key Facts:

Follows a block model with extended periods at university and company
Immersive learning experience applying academic knowledge in a professional setting

Job-integrated studies

Job-integrated dual studies are courses of studies where a study program is integrated into the job. Therefore, such programs are designed for those who are already professionals and have a full-time job but wish to connect their working experience with theoretical knowledge. The best way to do so is to either take a distance learning course or to arrange a specific schedule with the employer for a limited number of working hours. Applicants here will need a recognized vocational qualification and professional experience, and have to make sure that they will have enough spare time that will be dedicated to their studies. This advanced training program takes generally three years to be completed.

Key Facts:

Designed for working professionals, with courses in the evenings, weekends, or online
Allows continuation of employment while pursuing further education

Extra-occupational (dual) studies

Job-accompanying dual studies are more or less similar in nature with job-integrated studies, with the sole difference that in this case, you cannot get reduced working hours and employers should guarantee that they will release students depending on their studying schedule so they can attend theoretical classes or if they need to take any exams. Participants must have a university degree plus if applicable vocational qualification or professional experience. As with the training-integrated program the duration of job-accompanying dual studies can take around three to five years depending on the type of the course, be it an evening course, distance learning, etc.

Key Facts:

Tailored for individuals already employed full-time
Often combines self-paced online coursework with occasional on-campus sessions
Enables skill enhancement and career advancement without disrupting current employment

Unlock Exciting Career Opportunities With Dual Studies

As a graduate of a dual study program you are uniquely positioned to excel in a variety of dynamic career paths due to their distinctive combination of academic knowledge and practical experience. This powerful blend not only sets you apart in the job market but also opens doors to a range of exciting career opportunities, including:

Leadership Roles: The comprehensive training and hands-on experience provided by dual studies often propel graduates into management positions more swiftly. Their ability to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical insights equips them to lead teams effectively and drive organizational success.
Advanced Technical Careers: The in-depth technical skills gained through dual study programs prepare graduates for specialized roles in cutting-edge fields, such as such as software engineering, cybersecurity, data analysis, and engineering technologies. Their practical experience ensures they are well-prepared for complex technical challenges and innovations.
Entrepreneurship: With a robust understanding of both industry practices and business fundamentals, dual study graduates are well-equipped to launch and manage their own enterprises. Their entrepreneurial spirit and practical know-how pave the way for successful ventures and startups.
Innovative Research and Development: Graduates contribute significantly to research and development efforts, leveraging their dual background to bring fresh perspectives and advanced problem-solving skills to R&D projects. Their unique expertise drives innovation and progress in various industries.

Find your perfect dual study program now and lay a solid foundation for long-term career growth!