Dual vocational training – apprentice and student in one

Many students consider their studies as being too abstract. Therefore, they more and more choose a dual study course which combines vocational training with a university career. Another advantage: they get money on top of it.

Three years, two trainings, two degrees: More than 27,000 companies and 900 dual study courses in Germany make it possible. Jochen Goeser of the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) explains, "There are four different types of dual studies. The study course with integrated vocational training is the most important one. Not only does the student acquire a university degree but also a degree in a skilled trade."

For all those who have already obtained a Bachelor's degree and work in a job but want to continue their university career with a Master’s degree, an extra-occupational study course can be taken.

"Most of the dual study courses are offered in the field of economics and engineering", Goeser states. Especially those areas that lack skilled workers and that are interesting for business companies offer dual study courses.

According to BIBB, the amount of dual study courses in Germany has increased by 12.5 per cent during the past year - three times as much as in 2009. In mid 2010, approx. 51,000 young people were pursuing a practice-oriented university career.