Englisch 
Deutsch 
Germany’s distance learning sector offers what few countries can match: accredited bachelor’s and master’s degrees from over 100 universities, at a fraction of US or UK tuition – starting at 99 €/month. Most programs are taught in German (B2 level required), but a growing number are available in English. This page helps you navigate fields of study, costs and admission requirements.
Why Germany? German universities are internationally respected, especially in engineering, business and computer science. The Bologna system ensures your degree is recognized across 48 European countries. And the cost advantage is dramatic: a state university bachelor’s in Germany costs less than a single semester at many US or UK universities. You can study from anywhere in the world – no visa required.
- All bachelor & master courses at a glance
- What fields of study are available?
- How much does distance learning cost in Germany?
- What are the admission requirements?
- Are there English-taught programs?
- How does distance learning work in Germany?
- Financing options for international students
- Frequently asked questions
All bachelor & master courses at a glance
We have a total of 1015 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.
Business Psychology
IU International University · B.Sc. · 6 Semester
Social work
IU International University · B.A. · 6 Semester
Psychology
Private University Goettingen · B.Sc. · 6 Semester
Business Administration
IST University of Management · B.A. · 6 Semester
Law
University of Hagen · LL.B. · 7 Semester
Business Administration
IU International University · B.A. · 6 Semester
Mechanical Engineering
Wilhelm Büchner University · B.Eng. · 7 Semester
Master of Business Administration
IU International University · MBA · 2 Semester
Psychology
IU International University · B.Sc. · 6 Semester
Early Childhood Education
Centre for Distance Learning in the University Consortium · B.A. · 7 Semester
Social Management
IU International University · B.A. · 6 Semester
Social Work (MAPS)
University of Applied Sciences Münster · M.A. · 5 Semester
Mechanical engineering
The Dresden University of Technology · Dipl.-Ing. · 20 Semester
Mechanical Engineering
AKAD University · B.Eng. · 6 Semester
Commercial Law
IU International University · LL.B. · 6 Semester
Business Administration
Private University Goettingen · MBA · 3 Semester
Applied Psychology
APOLLON University of Health Sciences · B.Sc. · 6 Semester
Health Psychology
IU International University · B.Sc. · 6 Semester
Healthcare Management
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences · B.A. · 6 Semester
Psychology
Private University Goettingen · M.Sc. · 4 Semester
Business Psychology
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences · B.Sc. · 6 Semester
Commercial Law
European Distance Learning University Hamburg · LL.B. · 6 Semester
What fields of study are available?
German distance learning programs span 7 broad fields. Each links to a detailed comparison page with all programs, costs and providers:
| Field | Typical programs | Entry salary (Germany) |
|---|---|---|
| Business & Media | Business Administration, Marketing, MBA, Business Psychology, Media Management | 38,000–52,000 € |
| Health & Social | Social Work, Psychology, Nursing, Health Management | 34,000–45,000 € |
| Technology & Informatics | Computer Science, Data Science, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering | 42,000–55,000 € |
| Law | Business Law, Mediation, Compliance, Tax Law | 40,000–50,000 € |
| Natural Sciences | Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Food Science | 38,000–48,000 € |
| Design | Media Design, Graphic Design, UX Design, Communication Design | 32,000–42,000 € |
| Humanities | Cultural Studies, Philosophy, History, Education | 34,000–44,000 € |
How much does distance learning cost in Germany?
German tuition is dramatically lower than in the US, UK or Australia. The University of Hagen – Germany’s only state-run distance university – charges under 2,300 € for an entire bachelor’s degree. Private universities range from 99 to about 700 € per month.
| University type | Monthly cost | Bachelor’s total | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| State (Uni Hagen) | ~30–60 € | 1,900–2,300 € | University of Hagen |
| State (UAS) | 99–200 € | 4,200–7,200 € | Wismar, TH Würzburg-Schweinfurt |
| Private | 200–700 € | 10,000–45,000 € | IU, Euro-FH, AKAD |
Cost comparison: Germany vs. US/UK/Australia
| Country | Typical online bachelor’s cost |
|---|---|
| Germany (state) | 1,900–7,200 € |
| Germany (private) | 10,000–45,000 € |
| UK (Open University) | ~18,000–22,000 £ (~21,000–26,000 €) |
| USA (state university, online) | ~30,000–60,000 $ (~28,000–56,000 €) |
| Australia (online) | ~20,000–45,000 AU$ (~12,000–28,000 €) |
Even Germany’s private universities are competitive with state universities in other countries. The state options are among the cheapest accredited degrees available anywhere.
What are the admission requirements?
Admission to German universities does not always require a German Abitur. International qualifications are assessed via anabin (the official German database for foreign qualifications).
- With a bachelor’s equivalent: Direct admission to master’s programs. Your degree must be recognized as equivalent via anabin or uni-assist.
- With a secondary school diploma: If your school-leaving certificate is recognized as equivalent to the German Abitur or Fachhochschulreife, you can apply directly to bachelor’s programs.
- With professional qualifications: Germany’s “third pathway” allows admission based on vocational training and work experience – even without a school diploma. Requirements vary by state and university.
- Language requirements: Most programs require German B2 (TestDaF, DSH or equivalent). English-taught programs typically require B2 English (IELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL 80+).
Visa note: Distance learning programs do not qualify for a German student visa, since you do not need to reside in Germany. You can study from anywhere in the world. If you plan to move to Germany, check whether your program qualifies for a residence permit for study purposes.
How to apply
For most private universities (IU, Euro-FH, AKAD), you apply directly through the university’s website. For state universities, applications often go through uni-assist, which evaluates international credentials. Typical documents: certified copies of your degrees, transcript of records, language certificate (German B2 or English B2), CV, and passport copy. Processing takes 4–8 weeks. Many private universities offer rolling admissions – you can start any month.
Are there English-taught programs?
IU International University offers the largest selection of English-taught distance learning programs in Germany – dozens of bachelor’s and master’s degrees across business, IT, health and social sciences. Other universities with English-language options include University of Wismar (MBA programs) and AKAD University (selected programs).
Keep in mind: even English-taught programs may require some German proficiency for practical components, internships or thesis supervision. Check the specific program requirements before enrolling.
How does distance learning work in Germany?
- Study materials: Delivered via online learning platforms – as PDFs, video lectures, interactive modules or dedicated apps.
- Workload: Expect 15–20 hours per week alongside a full-time job. Part-time models spread the workload over more semesters.
- Exams: Depending on the university: on-site exams at test centres, online proctored exams, or written assignments. IU offers fully online exams.
- Duration: Bachelor’s: 6 semesters full-time, 8–12 part-time. Master’s: 3–4 semesters full-time, 5–8 part-time. Most private universities allow free extensions.
- Accreditation: All programs listed here are accredited and follow the Bologna system (ECTS credits, Bachelor/Master structure). Degrees are recognized across the EU and internationally.
Financing options for international students
Honest note upfront: scholarship options for pure distance learning are limited compared to on-campus programs. But the low tuition – especially at state universities – makes German distance learning affordable even without financial aid.
- Low tuition as default: At state universities (Hagen, Wismar, TH Würzburg-Schweinfurt), total costs are under 7,200 € for a full bachelor’s. This is already cheaper than most scholarship amounts elsewhere.
- Employer sponsorship: If you work in Germany, many employers co-finance degrees for their staff. This is the most common funding source for distance learners. Ask your HR department.
- Deutschlandstipendium: A merit-based scholarship of 300 €/month, available at participating universities. Open to international students enrolled in Germany.
- KfW student loan: Available to EU/EEA citizens and recognized refugees enrolled at German universities. Not available to all international students.
- DAAD scholarships: The German Academic Exchange Service primarily funds on-campus study in Germany. For pure distance learning from abroad, DAAD funding is rarely available.
- Tax deduction: If you are a German tax resident, study costs are tax-deductible – a second degree (e.g. master’s) can be fully deducted as work-related expenses.
- Payment plans: Most private universities offer monthly payment plans with no interest. Some allow you to extend your study period at no extra cost, spreading payments further.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. All accredited German degrees follow the Bologna system and are recognized across the EU. For recognition outside the EU, check with your country’s credential evaluation body (e.g. WES in the US/Canada, NARIC in the UK). German engineering and business degrees have a strong international reputation.
For most programs, yes – German B2 level is required. However, IU International University offers dozens of fully English-taught programs. Some MBA programs at other universities are also available in English.
Yes. Distance learning programs are designed for remote study. You can participate from anywhere in the world. Note that some programs require on-site exams at German test centres or partner institutions abroad – check the specific requirements before enrolling.
German degrees are accredited under the Bologna system, the same framework used across 48 European countries. They carry ECTS credits and follow the same Bachelor/Master structure. The main advantage: German tuition is significantly lower. A state university bachelor’s costs under 2,300 € total – compared to ,000–60,000 at a US state university.
About the Author Christian Wolf
Hi, I'm Christian, the founder of fernstudi.net & your personal, independent study advisor 👋 Do you have questions about a course of study or are unsure which course is right for you? I'm happy to help - in detail, competently, honestly, and individually.
Study Advice
Questions on the topic? Use our study advice, we are happy to help.