DE Contents
- Distance Learning by Subject Areas: All Possibilities at a Glance
- Lecture at the Kitchen Table: How a Distance Learning Course Works
- Studying without a High-School Diploma: Admission to Distance Learning
- Choosing a Course of Study in Distance Learning: What to Consider
- Distance Universities and Distance Colleges: These Universities Offer Distance Learning Courses
- Pros and Cons of Distance Learning
- How Recognised Are Distance Learning Programs in Business?
- Academic Guidance and Discussion
What is a distance learning course, how does it differ from an on-site course, and how much does a distance learning course cost? What are the arguments for and against distance learning? And are the degrees from a distance university of equal value to those from an on-site university? We will address all of these questions below.
We will also introduce the 30 most popular distance learning courses on fernstudi.net and compare them in detail. You will also find almost all distance learning courses and programs in Germany in our directory, along with information on:
- All distance universities from FernUni Hagen to IU International University
- Requirements for distance learning
- Study contents in distance learning
- Costs, and more.
Keep reading to learn everything about the topic of distance learning and online learning, and to gain an initial orientation on this modern and flexible form of studying.
All bachelor & master courses at a glance
We have a total of 988 courses in the field of Distance learning courses. The first 30 top courses are displayed. Use the filter function or our search to discover more courses in the field.
Psychology
- University of Hagen
- 6 Semester
- German
The distance learning programme in Psychology at the state FernUni Hagen introduces students to all areas of psychology and the social sciences. One of the focuses of the programme is …
Business Psychology
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German
100% online study with online exams! Study Business Psychology at one of the most modern universities in Germany. The course fundamentally explores the roots of the field of Business Psychology …
Social work
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German
The distance learning programme in Social Work at IU prepares you for everyday life as a social worker with an ideal mix of business administration, educational, psychological, and medical content. …
Psychology
- Private University Goettingen
- 6 Semester
- German
This distance learning programme covers the entire spectrum of psychology and provides a solid scientific education. The aim of the programme: to qualify you for both an initial psychology-related job …
Business Administration
- IST University of Management
- 6 Semester
- Düsseldorf
- German
This programme provides you with profound insights into business administration with a focus on service management. You will not only acquire fundamental management knowledge but also expertise in areas such …
Law
- University of Hagen
- 7 Semester
- German
By studying law remotely with the Jura distance learning programme at the FernUniversität in Hagen, you will complete a basic degree in legal studies that provides generalizable, connectable knowledge through …
Educational Science
- University of Hagen
- 6 Semester
- German
In the Bachelor's programme in Educational Science, the focus is on studying educational theories, concepts, and practices. The programme is oriented towards social sciences, as structures and functions of social …
Business administration
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German
The aim of the distance learning Bachelor of Business Administration is to provide you as a prospective specialist and manager with a broad basic education in the field of business …
Cultural Studies
- University of Hagen
- 6 Semester
- German
The degree programme Cultural Studies at the public FernUni Hagen provides basic knowledge in the humanities and allows for the choice of one of the three specialist areas: History, Literary …
Mechanical Engineering
- Wilhelm Büchner University
- 7 Semester
- German
Immerse yourself in the world of mechanical engineering with the Bachelor's degree program in Mechanical Engineering at Wilhelm Büchner University. Over 7 semesters, you will gain a comprehensive insight into …
Psychology
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German
The bachelor's degree programme in Psychology (B.Sc.) at IU International University provides a solid foundation of knowledge in all central areas of psychology, including General, Developmental, Personality, and Clinical Psychology. …
Master of Business Administration
- IU International University
- 2 Semester
- German or English
MBA programme in just 2 semesters for graduates with a master's or diploma degree, or in 3 semesters for those with a bachelor's degree! You not only choose from 2 …
Early Childhood Education
- Centre for Distance Learning in the University Consortium
- 7 Semester
- Koblenz, Rheinland-Pfalz
- German
- Theories, Models, Areas of Education, Social Science Foundations and Methods, Legal Foundations, Cross-Cutting Qualifications, Electives
Social Work (MAPS)
- University of Applied Sciences Münster
- 5 Semester
- German
- Basic theoretical references, epistemologies and research methods, professional leadership action, concept and quality development, economics of socia…
Social management
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German
The Bachelor's programme in Social Management (B.A.) prepares you specifically for a responsible role in the social sector, such as in welfare organizations, social services, or associations. During the course …
Social Management
- University of Wismar
- 8 Semester
- German
The Bachelor's online degree program in Social Management offered by Wismar International Graduation Services GmbH (WINGS) provides in-depth knowledge in the field of social management. Students acquire a broad spectrum …
Mechanical engineering
- AKAD University
- 6 Semester
- German
The distance learning programme in mechanical engineering provides comprehensive engineering knowledge and its practical application to solve interdisciplinary tasks in just 6 semesters of full-time study or part-time study. At …
Economics
- University of Hagen
- 6 Semester
- German
With the Wiwi distance learning programme at the state Fernuniversity and largest university in Germany, the FernUni Hagen, you will acquire knowledge in all areas of economics, such as business …
Mechanical engineering
- The Dresden University of Technology
- 20 Semester
- German
- Mathematics, Engineering Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics and Electrical Engineering, Design Theory, Manufacturing Technology and Materials …
Commercial Law
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German
The Bachelor of Laws in Business Law (LL.B.) in distance learning at IU paves the way for a career in the combined field of business administration and the focus of …
Computer Science
- University of Hagen
- 6 Semester
- German
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science course provides fundamental knowledge of computer science. You will learn to understand technical relationships and to select and apply suitable scientific methods to …
Business Administration
- Private University Goettingen
- 3 Semester
- German
Suitable for academics in non-economic disciplines! The aim of the course is to provide you with a practice-oriented toolkit for a business-oriented professional activity in both relevant basic topics such …
Applied Psychology
- APOLLON University of Health Sciences
- 6 Semester
- Bremen
- German
Studying psychology without restrictions and waiting times: With this course at the APOLLON University, you will train to become a practitioner in the field of psychology. The range of possible …
Business and Cultural Management in Education and Culture
- European Distance Learning University Hamburg
- 6 Semester
- Hamburg
- German
Career in Education: With this degree programme, you will learn to combine the skills of business administrators with those of educators. Qualify for the management of culture and education in …
Health psychology
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German
In the distance learning programme in Health Psychology, you will learn how to apply and evaluate evidence-based interventions in the digital age. It is crucial to consider health not only …
Mathematics
- University of Hagen
- 6 Semester
- German
The distance learning Bachelor's programme in Mathematics at FernUni is a full-time, professionally qualifying university course in mathematics, upon successful completion of which the Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science …
Healthcare Management
- Fresenius University of Applied Sciences
- 6 Semester
- German
The distance learning course in healthcare management (B. A.) at Hochschule Fresenius onlineplus offers you the combination of basic economic principles with content from areas such as healthcare, supply, and …
Psychology
- Private University Goettingen
- 4 Semester
- German
The master's programme in psychology through distance learning at PFH enables students to acquire in-depth knowledge in psychology while working. Graduates can focus on occupational, health psychology, or other specialised …
Business Psychology
- Fresenius University of Applied Sciences
- 6 Semester
- German
No NC, enrollment possible at any time! The distance learning course in Business Psychology at the prestigious Fresenius University focuses on business-related contexts that are analyzed with psychological background knowledge. …
Commercial Law
- European Distance Learning University Hamburg
- 6 Semester
- German
The distance learning course "Business Law" at the European Distance University Hamburg leads to the degree "Bachelor of Laws" in 36 months. The course includes modules such as business administration …
Distance Learning by Subject Areas: All Possibilities at a Glance
We present all distance learning courses from all subject areas here, always with a focus on detailed comparison. If you already know in which area you would prefer to pursue distance learning, choose a subject area. Or use our course finder.
- Subject area Business & Media
From Bachelor in MBA & BWL to Psychology to Media Management: Everyone who wants to study Business Sciences, Business Psychology, or Media Sciences will find their distance learning course here. - Subject area Engineering & Computer Science
Computer Science, Media Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering & Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering - between Bachelor of Engineering and Master of Science, we introduce all distance learning courses in Information Sciences and Engineering Sciences. - Subject area Health & Social Sciences
If you want to study Psychology, Education, Health Management, or Sports through distance learning, you will find the right distance learning course in the field of Human Sciences. - Subject area Natural Sciences
Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics: Although the range of studies in the Natural Sciences is manageable, we can still introduce some interesting courses. - Subject area Legal Sciences
Master of Laws, Business Law, and Criminology: We introduce the best distance learning courses in Legal Sciences here. - Subject area Humanities
Even in the field of Humanities, the selection of distance learning courses is manageable. Nevertheless, we can introduce a selection here.
Lecture at the Kitchen Table: How a Distance Learning Course Works
You may be wondering how a distance learning course can work if you don't have to go to the university or college much or at all. And if you can even earn a "real" bachelor's or master's degree that way. Here are the key facts about how a distance learning course operates.
Official Recognition. Distance universities are generally regular universities, meaning universities or colleges. As such, they are always state-licensed and must first prove through complicated accreditation processes that their degree programs are of high quality. This applies if they mainly offer distance learning courses, like the state-run FernUni Hagen. It also applies if they offer a mix of on-site and distance learning courses, like the private university FOM.
Degrees. The degree programs at state-licensed distance universities and colleges lead to qualifications that are completely equivalent to those at on-site universities. Furthermore, the bachelor's or master's degree obtained through distance learning is internationally comparable according to the ECTS (European Credit Transfer System) just like any other bachelor's and master's degree program. Moreover, there are even some universities that offer diploma distance courses, such as TU Dresden or Wismar University.
Procedure. If you want to enroll in a distance learning course, you proceed in the same way as other students:
- You need to find a study place (e.g. at FernUni Hagen), and you should meet the admission requirements, for example, having a high-school diploma if you want to study a bachelor's program. You can find a study place on fernstudi.net: Click here to access the distance learning search.
- You have to apply for the desired program and then enroll, or you can even register immediately. At FernUni, you can start in most subjects in the summer semester or the winter semester. Many private universities are more flexible, and you can start studying immediately, sometimes with a free trial month.
- You eagerly await your first study package. Every first-semester student has to go through this process! Then it finally arrives, and you have all the study materials for your first semester in front of you. The appearance of these is different from university to university. Private universities usually put a lot of effort into designing them and offer online campuses, apps, webinars, and teaching materials like videos for iPads.
- You learn when you have time. If you are employed, for example, on weekends or after work.
- Occasionally, you attend on-site events, such as seminars. Larger universities like FernUniversität Hagen operate study centers distributed across Germany. Other universities, such as the IU International University, try to avoid on-site events as much as possible.
- After a few examinations, seminar papers, and on-site seminars, you will be working on your thesis, a bachelor's or master's thesis. You are now not only a trained professional in your field of study, but also an expert in self-directed learning. You probably can't wait to start your next distance learning course.
Studying without a High-School Diploma: Admission to Distance Learning
The formal requirements for distance learning naturally vary from program to program and from degree to degree. Only a few programs have numerus clausus.
For most bachelor's programs, you can enroll if you have a valid high-school diploma, such as the General Certificate of Education or a vocational baccalaureate diploma.
For master's programs, you usually need to present a first-degree certificate. Furthermore, most master's programs, even in distance learning, require work experience. This means that after completing your studies, you should have worked for about 1 to 2 years in a relevant field or even worked during your master's program.
Interestingly, you can also enroll in almost all bachelor's programs without a high-school diploma or a vocational baccalaureate diploma. This works as follows:
- You, for example, have a master's degree or a degree like a certified technician, a certified business administrator, or a certified educator. Such a degree is considered a higher education entrance qualification, and you can usually enroll in your desired program.
- You have completed a training that is related to your desired studies and then worked for at least 3 years. Childcare and care activities are often recognized as work. You will then usually start your distance learning course as an auditor and take an entrance exam. If you pass this exam, you will be enrolled regularly.
In addition to the formal requirements, there are also a number of important personal requirements that you should meet if you want to enroll in a distance learning program:
- You should be able to organize, motivate, and discipline yourself. Especially if you are studying while working, studying can be a huge burden. To manage this double burden, you need organizational skills, a lot of motivation, and, most importantly, discipline.
- You should be able to learn independently. The majority of a distance learning course takes place in self-study, with little contact with fellow students and even less contact with teachers. If you prefer to study in groups or only understand facts when they are "spoon-fed" by a teacher, a distance learning course may be less suitable for you.
Choosing a Course of Study in Distance Learning: What to Consider
Choosing the right course of study is often a life-altering decision, even in a distance learning course. Therefore, here are some tips to help you find the right course of study. By the way, you can find the right course of study here on fernstudi.net in our distance learning database.
University or College? The very first decision is probably between a distance university or a distance college. The advantage of a university: the degree programs are more "academic," research-oriented, and theoretical. College degree programs, on the other hand, are usually more geared towards practical needs and the needs of the economy. In Germany, there is only one distance university: the FernUni Hagen (state-run). Therefore, if you want to study at a university, you either study at the FernUni Hagen or see if on-site universities offer one or the other distance learning course. Most other distance colleges are usually colleges of applied sciences. Degree programs are often organized by cross-institutional institutes, such as the Center for Distance Learning in the University Consortium.
Private or State-Run? There is now a large selection of distance learning courses offered by state universities. Advantage: Cost-effective. Disadvantage: Often crowded, meaning less supervision, occasionally admission-restricted. Those who value higher-quality study materials, better supervision, and a more consistent orientation towards the economy choose a private college. By the way, BAföG is also available for degree programs at private universities. Note: Private universities must also be "state-licensed." As a rule, the universities advertise this on their websites. If in doubt, it's better to inquire again.
ZFU Approval? The ZFU, the state-approved Central Agency for Distance Learning, is the authority responsible for the states in terms of the Distance Learning Protection Act. It decides, among other things, on the approval of distance learning courses. The ZFU checks whether a course meets the requirements of the Distance Learning Protection Act, i.e., whether the courses are suitable for distance learning in terms of content and methodology and whether the applicable legal regulations are complied with. This includes ensuring that the contract and information materials meet the legal requirements. Therefore, if you want to study at a private distance university, make sure that your desired degree program is ZFU-approved. As a rule, universities also advertise with the seal.
Tuition Fees? Bachelor's programs at state universities are usually comparatively cheap; however, for master's programs, you generally have to dig deep into your pocket even at state-run distance universities. It is important that both private and state providers make the fees transparent from the beginning, i.e., no hidden costs. It should be clear before starting the course whether the tuition fees are paid monthly, per semester, or in total. Whether seminars need to be paid for separately. Whether there are examination fees. Whether additional study materials need to be paid for along the way. It is also important to know in advance what happens if you need to take a break from studying or even drop out: Will you still have to pay the full tuition fees? Or can you withdraw from the contract at any time? Apart from that, you can also finance your distance learning course through BAföG and many other ways.
To finance your distance learning, the same options are available to you as for on-site campus studies:
- BAföG: You may be eligible for BAföG for bachelor's and consecutive master's degree programs.
- Tax Relief: When pursuing a second or postgraduate degree, you can fully deduct the expenses for your distance learning course as advertising costs. This is also possible if it is a first degree program following a vocational training. And if you go directly from your school-leaving qualification (e.g. high-school diploma) to a first-degree program, you can claim the study fees of up to 6000 euros per year as special expenses for tax purposes.
- Educational Loan: You can also apply for an educational loan for your distance learning, for example from KFW.
In addition, there are many other ways to finance and support a distance learning course.
Distance Universities and Distance Colleges: These Universities Offer Distance Learning Courses
Distance learning programs are now offered by more and more universities. The distinction between a distance university that exclusively offers distance learning courses and an on-site university is becoming increasingly blurred. This is due not least to the flexibility that distance learning courses offer to working professionals and that the labor market demands. Lifelong learning is trendy.
In Germany, there are now more than 100 state and private universities offering distance learning courses. These include, for example:
- FernUni Hagen. FernUni Hagen, based in Hagen/NRW, is the only state-run distance university. Its range of studies corresponds to that of universities. This means that, in addition to degree programs in Information Sciences and Business Sciences, you will find distance learning courses from the fields of Social Sciences and Humanities. With over 70,000 students, FernUni Hagen is the largest university in Germany.
- Center for Distance Learning in the University Consortium. The Center for Distance Learning in the University Consortium (zfh) based in Koblenz/RP is not a university but a scientific institution of the states Rhineland-Palatinate, Hesse, and Saarland. As such, the zfh promotes the development and implementation of distance learning courses in these federal states. The zfh cooperates with 18 universities of applied sciences. Currently, more than 6,000 students are enrolled in degree programs offered by the participating universities.
- IU International University. IU is a private university headquartered in Erfurt. The university offers distance learning courses and on-site programs from all subject areas, from Business Administration to Nursing Education. With over 100,000 students currently enrolled at the university, the International University sees itself as the "most innovative and leading provider of career-oriented study and further education programs for students and companies in Europe."
- Fresenius University. In the field of chemistry, Fresenius University, with its more than 165 years of educational tradition, is the oldest institution of education of this kind. In the face-to-face study, it now offers more than 50 degree programs at 10 locations in Germany and abroad. Its distance learning program, offered through the "onlineplus" department, is rapidly growing, with almost 40 distance learning degree programs currently offered from Business Administration to Economic Psychology.
More information on distance universities: An Overview of All Distance Universities in Germany at a Glance
Pros and Cons of Distance Learning
Here are the arguments against distance learning:
- Isolation. Distance learning can be a lonely experience. Sure, you can find a study group or form one. But you won't be able to enjoy a real student life with distance learning. Moreover, you will most likely have less time for friends and family.
- Lack of Recognition. Distance universities are generally not elite universities, and they still have a bit of a reputation for poorer teaching. On the other hand, later on, nobody will ask whether your university was a distance-learning or an on-campus university. Of course, if the university is called "FernUni Hagen", you can't hide that.
- High Costs. Studying at a private university can get expensive. This, of course, also applies to on-campus degree programs. Is it really worth getting into debt for years after completing your studies?
- High Dropout Rates. The exact dropout rates at FernUni Hagen, for example, are not known, but they are said to be very high. Many distance learners may not be fully aware of the stress that they may face when starting their studies.
Here are the arguments in favour of distance learning:
- Flexibility. Flexibility is the buzzword you will often hear in connection with distance learning programs. Distance learning can be well integrated with work and family because you can study wherever and whenever you want.
- Career Advancement. Distance learning programs are specifically designed to meet the needs of working professionals. Distance learning can be used in a similar way to a dual study program: you work and study at the same time, allowing you to constantly apply what you have learned in your work routine. This way, you can significantly boost your career.
- Time-saving. One of the major disadvantages of on-campus degree programs is the time spent on commuting to and from the university; on lectures that can be quickly grasped on paper; on seminars with endless discussions without results. With distance learning, you can streamline your studies to focus on what really matters: concentrated reading, writing, processing, and learning.
How Recognised Are Distance Learning Programs in Business?
You may be familiar with the Netflix series "Better Call Saul." The lawyer Jimmy McGill mentions several times that he obtained his law degree "only" via a distance university. This somewhat reflects the reputation that distance universities have: as second-class universities. Fortunately, this is slowly changing because the quality of distance learning has improved significantly in recent years due to new media and the strong competition from private universities.
Aside from that, hardly any HR manager asks whether you obtained your bachelor's degree through distance learning, especially if the university is named "IU International University" or "AKAD University."
But why hide the fact that the study program was "only" a distance learning program? A representative forsa survey of 300 companies with more than 150 employees in 2010 found that more than 50% of HR managers value employees' private further education. And more than half of those in charge grant such employees greater opportunities for promotion.
According to the survey, certain characteristics of distance learners are particularly appreciated, such as high self-motivation, goal orientation, independence, organizational skills, and flexibility. Openness to new ideas, decisiveness, communication skills, and assertiveness are also praised.
Academic Guidance and Discussion
What would you like to know about distance learning? Are you looking for a specific study program but cannot find it? Unsure if you will be admitted to a master's program with your qualifications? Use our academic guidance through one of these channels:
- Write your question or discussion contribution in the comments below, and we will be happy to help you.
- In each study program we introduce above and in our database, you can ask questions that will be answered by us and by university staff.
- Use our Student advisory service for more in-depth questions.
- Sign up on fernstudi.net. Here you will find plenty of like-minded individuals and a community of distance learners who will assist you, and with us, you can organize your distance learning.
About the Author Christian Wolf
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