Englisch 
Deutsch Who is the Master’s in German as a Foreign Language at Philipps University Marburg suitable for?
The part-time distance learning programme is aimed at individuals who already have practical teaching experience in the field of German as a foreign language and wish to expand their skills scientifically and didactically. You are addressed if you aspire to or want to deepen a career in teaching German as a foreign or second language – for example in international educational institutions, integration courses, or in the higher education sector. Typical applicants already have a basic qualification from a first university degree and experience in teaching German as a foreign language.
Admission requirements for the Master’s programme
In order to be admitted to the Master’s in German as a Foreign Language, you must provide the following evidence:
- A completed Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent domestic or foreign university degree
- At least one year of professional practical experience in teaching German as a foreign language (DaF)
- Participation in a compulsory subject-specific counselling session before the start of studies
- Proof of German language skills at level DSH II or TestDaF with at least 4 x 4 points
- All application documents must be submitted in German or English
On a personal level, you should have an interest in linguistic and intercultural didactics, experience in dealing with learners from diverse cultural backgrounds, and self-motivation for online study. Commitment to self-directed learning, flexibility, and willingness to engage with lecturers and other students are expected.
What content can you expect in the distance learning programme "German as a Foreign Language"?
In the Master's programme "German as a Foreign Language" at Philipps University Marburg, you will engage in-depth with the teaching, didactics, and methodology of German for non-native speakers. You will analyse theories and approaches to language acquisition, develop your own concepts for language instruction, and practice the conception, planning, and implementation of various teaching formats. The curriculum places a special focus on practical transfer: you will deal with lesson observation, error analysis, and assessment situations. Additionally, you will cover sociocultural aspects of acquiring German as a foreign and second language, materials development, and the use of digital tools in teaching. This will equip you with comprehensive knowledge in needs analysis, curriculum development, and intercultural communicative competence. A practice-oriented final project completes the training.
How is the process and structure of the distance learning programme?
The distance learning programme spans four semesters and is designed to be compatible with employment. All teaching content is delivered online, supported by supervised self-study phases. Communication with tutors takes place via email and the platform Big Blue Button. During your studies, you work through modules independently at your own pace. At the end, a short on-site phase takes place for the final examination at the university. You can start your studies in both the winter and summer semester. Study and examination achievements are mostly submitted digitally, making the programme very flexible and easy to combine with professional employment.
What career prospects arise after graduation?
The degree qualifies you for a variety of roles in the field of German as a foreign and second language. Typical areas of application include educational institutions at home and abroad, language schools, universities, as well as adult and continuing education centres. Additionally, opportunities arise in international organisations, publishing houses for teaching materials, examination institutions, and in designing e-learning offerings. In school, university, or non-university contexts, you can work with the Master's degree not only in teaching but also in teaching materials development, project management, or teacher training.
What costs should you expect for the distance learning programme?
The total cost amounts to 13,260 euros, based on a module fee of currently 210 euros per credit point (status: statute of 2018, a total of 60 credit points). With the fee statute of 2024, the contribution will increase to 250 euros per credit point in the future. In addition, a semester fee (excluding semester ticket) must be paid separately each time. The payment of fees is made according to study progress per module. Funding opportunities can include education loans and tax deductibility as business expenses. In some cases, employers financially support professional development.
Experiences & Reviews
Also interesting 👇
Source of this course information: Vendor Website
Advisory Service
Have questions about Academic Programs German as a foreign language? Ask your question here, even anonymously. An employee of the institution Philipps University of Marburg or the editorial team will answer you.