Everything You Need to Know About Master's Degrees in Germany

Master’s degrees in Germany are renowned for their affordability, award-winning curricula, and strong emphasis on practical experience, making them an excellent investment for your future. However, while choosing a program and university might be straightforward for German students, international students often find the process daunting. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of master’s degrees in Germany to help you navigate your options with confidence.
 

Types of Universities Offering Master’s Degrees

Germany has four main types of higher education institutions that offer master’s degrees:

Research Universities

These institutions focus on academic research and offer programs leading to master’s and doctoral degrees. Most are publicly funded.

Technical Universities

A subgroup of research universities specializing in science, technology, and engineering disciplines.

Universities of Applied Sciences

These universities focus on practical education in fields like engineering, business, and social sciences, often in collaboration with professional organizations. Many are private institutions.

Colleges of Art, Film, and Music

They cater to creative disciplines, requiring candidates to demonstrate artistic talent and experience. They may operate independently or as part of research universities or universities of applied sciences.
 

Making the Right Choice for Your Master’s Studies

Selecting the right university depends largely on your academic and professional goals:

• If you are drawn to academic research, a research or technical university may be ideal.
• If you prefer to gain practical skills and vocational experience, a university of applied sciences is a better choice.
• If you have a creative background, consider pursuing postgraduate studies at a college specializing in art, film, and music.

Applications at Berlin International are now open!
 

Consecutive vs. Non-Consecutive Master’s Degrees

Master’s programs in Germany can be categorized based on the academic or professional paths they support. Understanding the distinction between consecutive and non-consecutive master’s degrees is essential to determining which type aligns best with your educational background and career aspirations.

• Consecutive Master’s Degrees: Designed for students continuing directly from a bachelor’s degree in the same or a closely related field.
• Non-Consecutive Master’s Degrees: Ideal for students who wish to pivot to a new field, often requiring professional experience alongside a bachelor’s degree. These are particularly suited for students returning to academia after working.

Additionally, professional master’s degrees are available in vocational fields such as teaching, nursing, and law.

Our MA Interior Architecture/Interior Design is offered as a consecutive master’s program, while our MA Interior Design is a non-consecutive master’s program.
 

Structure of Master’s Programs

Now that we have covered your different university options let's discuss the structure of master’s programs in Germany.

Length of Study

The duration of master’s programs varies depending on the discipline:

• One year
• One and a half years
• Two years

Typically, a master’s program comprises two semesters per academic year and concludes with a final project or dissertation.

ECTS Credits

Master’s degrees in Germany are usually worth 120 ECTS credits, distributed over two years (60 credits per year). A dissertation or research project in the final semester typically accounts for 30 credits.

Master’s programs at Berlin International can be 2 semesters (60 ECTS) or 4 semesters (120 ECTS)

Content of Master’s Programmes

Master’s programs are structured into modules or units of study, with teaching methods varying by institution:

• Research Universities: Combine core lectures, seminars, and independent study.
• Universities of Applied Sciences: Emphasize hands-on workshops and instruction from industry professionals.
• Colleges of Art, Film, and Music: Focus on developing and assessing students’ creative skills.

Master’s Dissertation

During the final year, students complete a dissertation or thesis with support from a university-assigned mentor. This project involves presenting original research and defending it in an oral examination, including a Q&A session on findings and conclusions.
 

Application Process for Master’s Degrees

The application process varies from university to university, so let us review it more thoroughly.

Check out our admission tips for students!

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements vary by university and program, but generally, you will need:

• A bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent
• Proof of language proficiency (German or English, depending on the program and university)
• Portfolio (for design programs)
• CV
• Letter of motivation
• Letter of reference, proving at least 1 year of work experience (for MBA)
• Interview

Learn more about the admission requirements at Berlin International.

Language Requirements

Language requirements depend on the program’s medium of instruction:

• English-taught programs: Non-native speakers must provide proof of English proficiency, typically through tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE.
• German-taught programs: Applicants must pass a German language test such as TestDaF (Test für Deutsch als Fremdsprache) or DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang).

All programs at Berlin International are taught exclusively in English!

Master’s Degree Fees in Germany

Fees vary depending on the type of program and institution:

• Consecutive programs: Typically free at public universities, requiring only a semester fee of €100–€200, which often includes a public transport ticket.
• Non-consecutive programs: These may charge tuition fees, especially at private universities, ranging from €5,000 per semester and up.

Learn more about the BI 10th Anniversary Scholarship!

Application Deadlines for Master’s Degrees in Germany

Application deadlines vary by university, but the following are common:

• Summer semester: Apply by January 15th.
• Winter semester: Apply by July 15th.

Check specific deadlines for your chosen university.

At Berlin International, applications for the fall semester are accepted between December and August. If you require a visa, you should apply at least 3 months before classes start.
 

Why Choose Germany for Your Master’s Studies?

Pursuing a master’s degree in Germany offers a wealth of opportunities, whether you are seeking to advance your academic career, gain practical experience, or develop your creative skills. By understanding the different types of programs, admission requirements, and key factors like language proficiency and application deadlines, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your academic and professional goals. With high-quality education and a dynamic international environment, Germany is an excellent choice for furthering your studies and shaping your future.

 

We hope our article has helped you learn everything you need to know about master’s degrees in Germany. If you are interested in pursuing your undergraduate studies in Berlin, look at the master's programs we offer.

Feel free to contact our Admissions Team at any time via application@berlin-international.de.