DE Contents
Germany, renowned for its high-quality education system and tuition-free public universities, has become an attractive destination for international students. However, when it comes to English-taught bachelor’s degree programs delivered via distance learning, the landscape remains relatively narrow and underdeveloped compared to master’s-level options or full-time campus-based studies. Still, a small but growing number of institutions are beginning to bridge this gap, offering undergraduate programs that combine the academic rigor of German higher education with the flexibility of remote learning and the accessibility of English-language instruction.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of these programs, exploring their structure, availability, admission requirements, costs, and unique features. It is intended as a resource for international students, expatriates, and working individuals seeking to earn a bachelor’s degree from a German university—without relocating or interrupting their personal and professional lives.
All english taught bachelor programmes at german universities in overview
We have a total of 28 courses in the field of English taught bachelor.
Business informatics
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German or English
The aim of the distance learning course in Business Informatics is to train you as a future specialist and leader at the increasingly important interface between business administration and information …
Computer Science
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- English
English-language distance learning course in Computer Science! The focus of this course is on Software Engineering. Throughout the distance learning programme, you will extensively study topics such as IT security, …
Cyber Security
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German or English
The part-time Bachelor's programme Cyber Security (B.Sc.) at IU International University provides a comprehensive understanding of IT technologies for defending against cyber attacks. Students gain knowledge of operating systems, cloud …
Data Science
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- English
Data preparation, data visualisation, and data analysis: In the Bachelor's programme in Data Science, you will delve deep into data science as the core science of all digitalisation processes. Throughout …
Software development
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German or English
The Bachelor's programme "Software Development" (B.Sc.) at IU International University provides scientific foundations in programming, software engineering, and project management. The aim is to prepare students to solve practical problems …
Applied Psychology
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German or English
In this distance learning course, you will learn how to apply your psychological expertise in interpersonal situations and processes in the professional environment. You will engage with topics such as …
Business Administration and Digitalization
- SRH Distance Learning University - The Mobile University
- 6 Semester
- German or English
- Scientific work - self-management, general business administration, national accounting, general economics - operational value creation, personnel and…
International Healthcare Management
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- English
In this English-language bachelor distance learning programme, you will learn in 6 semesters full-time study or part-time study which companies and organizations operate in the healthcare market and how they …
International Management
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German or English
The course provides systematic management basics as well as intercultural competences, even on a part-time basis. For example, you will focus on intercultural psychology or international marketing and work on …
Aviation Management
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- English
The English-language distance learning course Aviation Management provides you with basic business knowledge as well as academic and industry-specific methodological skills for the aviation industry. Within 6 semesters of full-time …
Management
- IU International University
- 8 Semester
- English
With this English-language online course, you will learn the fundamentals of business administration and management within 8 semesters in full-time or part-time study. Additionally, you will immerse yourself intensively in …
Media and Communication Management
- SRH Distance Learning University - The Mobile University
- 6 Semester
- German or English
- Fundamentals of Media Economics, Principles of Economics, Principles of Business Administration, Academic Writing, Personal Skills, Internal and Exter…
Robotics
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German or English
With this interdisciplinary engineering degree program, you will engage in a scientific and systematic exploration of mechanical, electrical, and control engineering, as well as the fundamentals of computer science, data …
Business Administration
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- English
English-speaking Bachelor in Business Administration in 6 semesters full-time study or in flexible part-time study without attendance requirements. In distance learning, you will acquire a broad basic knowledge in all …
Digital Business
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German or English
The distance learning programme Digital Business prepares you thoroughly with a solid education in the fields of business administration and computer science for work in companies. As an expert in …
Applied Artificial Intelligence
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German or English
The Bachelor's distance learning programme in Applied Artificial Intelligence systematically teaches you the fundamentals of mathematics and statistics, as well as machine and deep learning and reinforcement learning. In addition, …
Entrepreneurship
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German or English
This Bachelor's programme provides you with the fundamental principles, methods, and applications in the field of business administration, as well as a particular emphasis on an "Entrepreneurial Mindset". Throughout the …
Real Estate
- EBZ Business School
- 7 Semester
- German or English
- Introduction to Real Estate Management; Real Estate Market, Urban and Neighborhood Development; Real Estate Management: Building Technology Basics, Bu…
Engineering
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- English
The Bachelor's degree programme in Engineering at IU International University offers students the opportunity to gain a solid understanding of engineering. The programme provides theoretical knowledge in the areas of …
Automotive and Mobility Business
- University of Applied Sciences for Economics and Environment Nürtingen-Geislingen
- 6 Semester
- German or English
- Structures in the automotive and mobility market, digitization and innovations in the automotive and mobility industry, basics of automotive engineeri…
Digital Health
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German or English
In the Bachelor distance learning programme "Digital Health" at IU, students are prepared for the challenges and opportunities in the field of digital healthcare. The course combines health sciences and …
Artificial Intelligence & Sustainable Technologies
- Tomorrow University of Applied Sciences
- 6 Semester
- German or English
- Learning Insights, Mission Identification, Build Your Dream Team, Introduction to Coding, Technology Revolutions, Sustainability Foundations, Introduc…
AI in Business
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- English
The Bachelor AI in Business at IU International University offers you the opportunity to develop a comprehensive understanding of the synergy between Artificial Intelligence and Management. You will learn to …
Responsible Entrepreneurship & Management
- Tomorrow University of Applied Sciences
- 6 Semester
- German or English
- Introduction to Entrepreneurship, Mission Identification and Learning Insights, Technology Revolutions, Teams and People Management, Sustainability Fo…
Health and Environmental Psychology
- Technical University of Applied Sciences Würzburg-Schweinfurt
- 7 Semester
- English
- Perception, learning, emotion, motivation, social interaction, health psychology, environmental psychology, behavioral analysis, intervention, public …
International Business Administration
- Constructor University
- 6 Semester
- English
- Introduction to International Business, Introduction to Finance and Accounting, Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Applied Project Management, Internatio…
Industrial Engineering & Management
- Constructor University
- 6 Semester
- English
- General Logistics, General Industrial Engineering, Introduction to International Business, Introduction to Finance and Accounting, Production Planning…
Applied Computer Science
- Constructor University
- 6 Semester
- English
- Introduction to Computer Science, Programming in C/C++, Introduction to Data Science, Distributed Development, Matrix Algebra and Advanced Analysis I,…
Admission Requirements for Bachelor Programmes in Germany
Gaining admission to an English-taught distance learning bachelor’s program at a German university requires applicants to meet specific academic and language-related criteria. While exact requirements vary by institution and program, there are common standards based on national regulations and international credential recognition.
To be eligible for undergraduate studies in Germany, applicants must hold a recognized higher education entrance qualification. For international students, this usually means:
- A secondary school certificate equivalent to the German Abitur (e.g., A-Levels, International Baccalaureate, or a U.S. high school diploma with college-preparatory coursework)
- In some cases, a foundation year (Studienkolleg) or one year of university-level studies may be required
- EU citizens typically have the same access requirements as German applicants
Credential recognition is guided by the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB), and many universities use the uni-assist platform to evaluate international qualifications.
Since these programs are fully delivered in English, proof of English language proficiency is essential. Commonly accepted tests and minimum scores include:
- TOEFL iBT: usually between 80–100 points
- IELTS Academic: typically 6.0–7.0 overall band score
- Cambridge English: C1 Advanced or higher
In some cases, applicants may be exempt from submitting a test score if they have previously completed secondary or tertiary education in an English-speaking country.
While not always required, a basic level of German (A1 or A2) may be recommended or required for certain administrative procedures or optional on-campus activities.
Beyond academic and language qualifications, applicants are often asked to submit additional materials such as:
- Curriculum vitae (CV) in English
- Statement of motivation or "letter of intent"
- Letters of recommendation (especially for competitive or private university programs)
- Proof of work experience, particularly for part-time or practice-oriented degree programs
For some professional bachelor’s degrees—such as in Business Administration, Information Technology, or Healthcare Management—relevant work experience (typically 1–2 years) may be a formal or informal prerequisite.
Costs and Financial Considerations
Pursuing an English-taught distance learning bachelor’s degree in Germany comes with a range of financial aspects that differ significantly depending on the type of institution—public vs. private—as well as the structure and scope of the program. Unlike traditional on-campus study in Germany, which is often free at public universities, distance learning programs—particularly those offered in English—are frequently subject to tuition fees.
Most public universities in Germany charge low or moderate tuition fees, particularly if the program is subsidized or part of a continuing education track. However, the few English-taught bachelor-level distance learning programs that exist at public institutions often come with additional fees, given their specialized nature. These may range from €1,000 to €3,500 per semester or more.
In contrast, private universities typically charge higher tuition fees, reflecting the flexibility, international orientation, and often enhanced student support services provided. Fees for private distance learning bachelor’s degrees can vary widely, from approximately €3,000 to over €8,000 per year, depending on the subject area and the institution.
In addition to tuition, students may also need to pay:
- Registration and administration fees
- Examination or assessment fees
- Material or technology fees (e.g., for digital learning platforms or printed course materials)
It is important to clarify what is included in the fee structure—some institutions bundle services such as academic advising, digital libraries, or live tutoring, while others charge separately.
Since distance learners do not need to relocate to Germany or live near a campus, they avoid major living expenses such as rent, transportation, and local student fees. However, depending on their country of residence, they may incur technology-related costs, such as maintaining a stable internet connection, purchasing study equipment, or accessing specific software tools.
For those pursuing their studies from abroad, visa-related costs are usually not applicable, unless the program requires short-term presence in Germany for exams or practical components.
Although scholarships are more commonly available for full-time, on-campus international students, there are select funding options for distance learners, especially those offered through private universities or targeted international programs. These may include:
- Merit-based tuition discounts
- Need-based financial support
- Employer co-funding schemes (particularly for working professionals)
- Occasional support from the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) or private foundations
It is important to note that state financial aid (BAföG) is generally not available to international students pursuing distance education from outside Germany, although EU nationals or long-term residents may be eligible under certain conditions.
While tuition fees for English-taught distance learning programs may seem high compared to free on-campus study in German, the overall cost can still be more affordable than studying abroad in countries like the UK, US, or Australia, especially when considering the savings on living expenses and relocation.
For working professionals or individuals with family commitments, the cost-benefit ratio of distance learning becomes especially attractive, as it allows them to continue earning income while studying flexibly.
Understanding Distance Learning in Germany
Distance learning, or Fernstudium, holds a well-established place within Germany’s higher education system and has evolved significantly in recent years to meet the needs of a more global and digitally connected student population. Unlike casual online courses or short-term certificates, academic distance learning in Germany is a regulated and accredited form of university-level education that leads to a recognized degree.
At its core, distance learning in Germany refers to a study format in which students complete their coursework largely or entirely away from a physical campus. This includes both purely remote programs and blended formats that combine online study with occasional in-person components such as workshops, seminars, or examinations. In many cases, students receive structured digital materials, participate in virtual classrooms, and interact with instructors and peers via dedicated learning platforms. These platforms—ranging from Moodle and MS Teams to proprietary university systems—form the backbone of the academic experience, ensuring access to lectures, readings, assignments, and assessments regardless of location or time zone.
Although the majority of distance learning programs in Germany are still offered in German, there is growing interest in providing fully English-taught degrees, particularly at the master's level and increasingly, though still rarely, at the bachelor's level. These programs are designed to attract international learners and are structured to be accessible across different time zones, often relying on asynchronous content delivery to ensure flexibility.
From a legal standpoint, distance learning degrees in Germany are subject to the same academic standards and quality assurance mechanisms as traditional on-campus programs. All higher education institutions must comply with national and state-level regulations, and degree programs must be accredited by officially recognized agencies under the oversight of the German Accreditation Council. Additionally, any program delivered in a distance format must meet technical and pedagogical standards, ensuring that students receive a coherent and academically rigorous education. For non-university providers, particularly in the area of continuing education, approval by the Central Office for Distance Learning (ZFU) is also required.
A number of institutions play a central role in shaping the German distance education landscape. The largest and most prominent is FernUniversität in Hagen, Germany’s only state-run distance learning university, with over 70,000 students. While its undergraduate programs are primarily in German, it serves as a model for large-scale, academically robust remote learning. Meanwhile, private universities such as IU International University, SRH Fernhochschule, and WINGS (a division of Hochschule Wismar) have developed comprehensive, flexible programs, some of which are offered fully in English and geared toward international and working professionals.
The success of distance learning in Germany is closely tied to the integration of technology with personalized academic support. Students are not left to navigate their studies alone; rather, they benefit from access to academic advising, tutor guidance, virtual office hours, peer interaction forums, and in many cases, technical support services. This balance between independence and structured guidance reflects the German approach to higher education—rigorous, organized, and student-centered.
In summary, distance learning in Germany represents a credible and high-quality pathway to a university degree, grounded in a strong legal framework and increasingly aligned with global standards. Although English-taught bachelor’s programs remain limited, the institutional capacity and infrastructure are in place to support their gradual expansion.
About the Author Christian Wolf
Study Advice
Questions on the topic? Use our study advice, we are happy to help.
or post as a guest