Programme types
International programmes
Study programmes with an international focus
International Tracks
- General information
International tracks in the master course
International Track means that the curriculum of this degree programme can be studied entirely in German or entirely in English within the standard period of study. The language skills required to gain access to the respective degree programme can be found in the subject-specific regulations. Under certain circumstances, certain profiles or compulsory elective modules must be studied in order to complete the International Track; this may limit the options available.
Overview of the international tracks offered in the master course
- Target group
The International Track is aimed at three target groups of students
- Students who are interested in completing part or all of their master's course in English
- Students from abroad who would like to complete an international, English-language Master's programme
- Erasmus+ students and other exchange students
- Advantages
Die Vorteile eines International Tracks
- Gain international study experience without leaving Bielefeld
- Optimal preparation for a stay abroad
- Studying in Germany is possible for students from abroad even without knowledge of German
- Improve your German and/or English language skills during your studies
- Better job opportunities through better language skills
- international perspective
- heterogeneous study groups: students enrolled in Bielefeld and exchange students
- Preparation for international careers in science or other professional fields
- deeper understanding of the specialised culture, e.g. in the natural sciences
FAQ
- What is the difference between an international track and an English-language degree programme or a double degree?
While English-language degree programmes are offered exclusively in English, not all courses on a degree programme with an international track are offered in English. However, it is possible to study the curriculum entirely in English within the standard period of study, albeit with limited options.
Double degree programmes offer the opportunity to study in two countries and obtain two degrees. The language of instruction depends on the respective partner universities. International tracks, on the other hand, are based entirely at Bielefeld University and enable students to complete their degree in English without having to change countries.
- What does it mean that I have "limited options"?
Master courses with an international track can be studied either completely in German or completely in English. However, this does not mean that every course is offered in both German and English. For example, it may not be possible to study a certain profile in English, or a certain English-language seminar may not be offered every semester. It is therefore important to seek advice and develop an individual study plan together with the relevant contact person in the faculty.
- How do I find the English-language events?
English-language courses are labelled "Course taught in English" in the electronic course catalogue (ekvv). The contact person in the faculty will help you find the right courses.
- Do I commit to one language?
- Do I get a certificate if I have studied the International Track?
This is handled differently at each faculty. You can find out whether there is an additional certificate in your chosen degree programme with an international track by consulting the relevant contact person at the faculty.
English-language master courses
English-language master's courses can only be studied entirely in English. These degree programmes are not available in German.
Double Degrees
Study programmes with the possibility of an international double degree
Participation in a double degree programme at Bielefeld University involves studying at Bielefeld University and at one of its partner universities. Students who participate in the double degree programme complete their studies at both universities and have the opportunity to obtain a double degree after six semesters of a Bachelor's or four semesters of a Master's course. This means that two university degrees are awarded upon graduation, one from Bielefeld University and one from the respective partner university. The language of instruction depends on the respective partner university.
Subject: German as a foreign language
The subjects "German as a Foreign and Second Language" (Bachelor) and"German as a Foreign Language and German Studies" (Master) prepare students for work in an international environment. The same language requirements apply here as for all other German-language degree programmes.