German vs English Taught Degrees in Germany (The Truth)

Summary

This video explores the decision between English and German-taught degree programs in Germany. It highlights the larger selection and easier admission into German-taught programs, often integrated with English elements, especially in fields like computer science. The video emphasizes the importance of German language proficiency for better job opportunities and integration into German society. It also discusses the appeal of English-taught programs, often at private universities, which may lack the long-term benefits of German language skills. The speaker advises considering the long-term implications of the choice on career prospects and the importance of learning German for a successful stay in Germany.

Takeaways

• 📚 There are approximately 20,000 German-taught and 2,000 English-taught degree programs in Germany according to the DAAD University database.
• 🎯 Getting into a German-taught program is generally easier, with more options and less stringent admission requirements.
• 🌐 Even German-taught degrees often include English elements, especially in fields like computer science where technical terms are commonly in English.
• 📘 At the bachelor's level, most courses are in German, but some English-taught courses may be available, such as 'Innovation Management'.
• 📚 For masters, German-taught programs tend to have more English content, and some students may even write their thesis in English.
• 📖 It's recommended to read the 'Modulhandbuch' or course plan to understand the language of instruction for each course.
• 💰 German public universities offer free education funded by taxpayers, with the expectation that students will contribute back through taxes once they start working.
• 🌍 The main purpose of studying in Germany is integration into the country and culture, which is why German-taught programs are promoted.
• 🗣️ The general language requirement for German-taught degrees is B2 level German, with some programs requiring even C1 level fluency.
• 🏫 English-taught programs are often found at private universities and can be as expensive as US programs, with fewer options available.
• 🎓 For master's degrees, many public universities offer English-taught programs that are tuition-free and highly international.
• 📈 Studying in German significantly improves job opportunities and access to internships and part-time jobs due to the preference for German-speaking candidates in the job market.
• 🤔 The decision between German and English-taught programs involves considering the investment in learning German versus the cost of an English-taught program and its potential impact on long-term career prospects.
• 🏛️ Employers may perceive English-taught degree holders as less likely to integrate into Germany, which could be a disadvantage in the job market.
• 👨‍💻 While tech jobs and international companies in Germany may operate in English, being bilingual is advantageous and increases job opportunities.
• 📚 Learning German while studying an English-taught degree is challenging but can lead to better integration and respect from the community.
• 📋 German bureaucracy and university administration often require German language proficiency, emphasizing the importance of learning the language for daily life in Germany.

Q & A

What is the primary language of instruction for most degree programs in Germany?

The primary language of instruction for most degree programs in Germany is German, with about 20,000 German-taught programs out of a total of 22,000.

Why might it be easier to get into a German-taught degree program?

Getting into a German-taught program is usually easier because there are programs that are admission-free, meaning they accept everyone who meets the basic requirements, even with lower grades.

How does the presence of English elements in German-taught degrees affect international students?

Even though the primary language of instruction is German, the presence of English elements, such as slides in English or coding terminology, can help international students follow along even if they are not fluent in German.

What is the Modulhandbuch and how can it help prospective students?

The Modulhandbuch is the course plan for degree programs. It helps prospective students understand the language of instruction for each course, which is crucial for making an informed decision about their studies.

Why do German public universities offer free education?

German public universities offer free education because it is funded by taxpayer money with the idea that students will stay in Germany, pay taxes, and contribute to the economy once they start working.

What is the general language requirement for German-taught degrees?

The general language requirement for German-taught degrees is at least B2 German, which means students need to be able to speak proper German. Some programs may even require a C1 level of fluency.

Why are English-taught programs more expensive and what are the implications for students?

English-taught programs are more expensive because they are often offered at private universities. Students may face fewer options and potentially higher costs, similar to programs in the US.

What are the advantages of studying an English-taught master's degree in Germany?

Studying an English-taught master's degree in Germany can be advantageous because many of these programs at public universities are tuition-free and very international, often involving research and collaboration with universities in other countries.

How does the choice of degree program affect job opportunities in Germany?

The choice of degree program can significantly affect job opportunities. Students who study in German have better access to research, internships, and part-time jobs, as most employers in Germany prefer candidates who can speak German.

What is the perception of English-taught programs among employers in Germany?

Some employers in Germany may perceive English-taught programs as less desirable, thinking that students who choose these programs might be unwilling to integrate into the country or were too lazy to learn German.

What advice does the speaker give for students who want to study in Germany but don't know any German?

The speaker advises students to start learning German, even if they plan to enroll in an English-taught program, as being at least at the A2 level is important for survival in Germany and shows an intention to integrate.