Advice on dual study programmes
The advantages of dual studies
Double qualification and shorter training periods
Within the framework of dual studies with integrated training, you acquire a double qualification: a Bachelor's degree plus recognised training from the Chamber of Industry and Commerce or the Chamber of Crafts. Compared to an apprenticeship followed by a degree programme, the time required for a dual study programme is significantly shorter.
Variety of degree programmes
The FH Aachen currently offers 15 dual or extra-occupational degree programmes. The thematic focus is on the commercial sector as well as on engineering, computer science and health.
Practical component
Due to the training in a company, the practical part is very high and oriented towards the requirements of the economy. The combination of theory and practice makes studying easier for many students, as they know what they have to learn. Student research projects and Bachelor's theses can also be implemented in a practical way with topics from the corporate environment.
Career prospects
The chances of being hired after successful dual / extra-occupational studies are usually very good, as companies run these programmes to recruit their own junior staff. As a graduate, you will be happy to work in middle and senior management in companies. After successfully completing a Bachelor's degree with a good grade point average, you can also go on to study for a Master's degree.
Remuneration
Whereas you have to finance your own university studies, you will generally receive remuneration from the company providing the training for dual studies.
The most frequently asked questions about dual studies
What does "dual studies" mean?
With a dual studies programme, you complete an apprenticeship at a company parallel to your studies at FH Aachen. Theory and practice are thus ideally linked with each other in terms of content. The training period is usually shortened and is completed with an examination certificate from the Chamber of Industry and Commerce or the Chamber of Crafts. The programme ends with a Bachelor's degree. After three to four and a half years, you will have both a training and a degree in your pocket - depending on which degree programme you choose.
What does practice-integrated study mean?
Even if you are already employed, you can complete some degree programmes at FH Aachen. So-called "practice-integrated degree programmes" are taken parallel to your employment in a company. A completed apprenticeship is not necessary for the degree programmes Business Law Praxis Plus and Business Law Praxis Plus. The situation is different in the degree programme Optometry and Opticians. Here, a completed vocational training as an optician is a prerequisite. The courses and lectures at the FH Aachen usually take place during the day, in the degree programme Optometry and Opticians in block courses lasting several weeks.
What requirements do I have to fulfil?
Dual study programmes are aimed at school leavers with an entrance qualification for a university of applied sciences (Fachhochschulreife) or Abitur. In individual cases, there are individual entry requirements for dual and extra-occupational degree programmes. Please inform yourself at an early stage at the Registrar's Office of the FH Aachen whether your personal prerequisites are sufficient for dual studies or practice-integrated studies.
How do I apply for dual studies?
After graduating from school, you apply to a company that would offer you a dual studies programme with a training place. The application should be made early, normally already one year in advance. With a training contract and the university entrance qualification, registration at the FH Aachen is then possible. We will gladly support you in your search for a training company. You can find detailed information on the page for applicants for dual studies.
