Hochschule Fresenius – Everything about Distance Learning in Comprehensive Overview

Hochschule Fresenius is a state-recognized private university with a long tradition (founded in 1848). Today, it offers an extensive range of distance learning programs in addition to on-campus courses, allowing flexible, location- and time-independent study. This offer is particularly aimed at working professionals or individuals who wish to combine studies with family and other commitments. Below is a detailed description of distance learning at Hochschule Fresenius – from courses and study process to examinations, support, digital learning environment, and costs.

The distance learning programs at Hochschule Fresenius cover numerous fields and disciplines. In total, there are dozens of Bachelor's and Master's programs (including MBA programs) in various disciplines to choose from. All distance learning programs are state-approved and accredited (e.g. by the Central Office for Distance Learning, the German Council of Science and Humanities, and the Accreditation Council). The following subject areas are covered in distance learning:

• Economics & Management: e.g., Business Administration (B.A.), Media and Communication Management (B.A.), Human Resource Management (B.A.), Master's in Business Administration (M.A.), or Management in Healthcare (M.A.).
• Psychology & Business Psychology: e.g., Psychology (B.Sc.), Business Psychology (B.Sc.) as well as master's specializations (M.Sc. Business Psychology or M.A. Applied Psychology).
• Education & Social Sciences: e.g., Social Work (B.A.), Childhood Education, Leadership, and Management (B.A.), or Education, Media, and Digitalization (M.A.).
• Health & Therapy: e.g., Physiotherapy (B.Sc.), Occupational Therapy (B.Sc.), Nutritional Sciences (B.Sc.) or Management in Healthcare (B.A.).
• Digitalisation, Technology & Engineering: e.g., Technical Business Administration and Digital Transformation (B.Sc.), Industrial Engineering Production & Manufacturing (B.Eng.), and Digital Business Management and Engineering (M.Sc.).
• Media & Communication: e.g., Media and Communication Management (M.A.) or Online Marketing (M.A.).

This wide range of courses allows you to pursue various career paths at Hochschule Fresenius's distance learning – from traditional business administration and human resources to psychology and social sciences, as well as technical programs. Each program leads to a recognized academic degree (Bachelor's, Master's, or MBA) from Hochschule Fresenius. These degrees are equivalent to on-campus degrees and are highly accepted in the job market. With a variety of disciplines and specializations, you can choose a program that aligns perfectly with your career goals and interests.

How Distance Learning Works at Hochschule Fresenius

Enrolling in a distance learning program at Hochschule Fresenius is possible year-round and follows a multi-stage but straightforward process. Initially, you apply online for the desired distance learning program by completing the digital application form. Subsequently, you gain access to the upload portal where you can submit the required documents. For Bachelor's admission, initially providing proof of higher education qualification (e.g. high school diploma) or professional qualification is sufficient; all further documents (e.g. certified transcripts) can be submitted up to six months after the start of studies.

A similar process applies to the Master’s programs: initially, only proof of the first higher education degree (Bachelor) or relevant professional experience is required. These generous deadlines simplify the start of the studies, allowing you to begin on the 1st of any month without long waiting periods. Once all necessary documents and the signed study contract are submitted, you are officially enrolled and promptly receive your access details for the online campus of Hochschule. From this point on, you can log in to the learning platform and start your studies. Additionally, Hochschule Fresenius grants a four-week trial period at the start of studies: Within this period, you can try out the distance learning program and withdraw from the contract if you are not satisfied. This fair offer provides additional assurance in the decision-making process.

A significant advantage of Fresenius's distance learning is the flexible study duration. Each course offers various time models to choose from: In Bachelor's programs, you can choose between 36, 48, or 72 months of total duration, while in Master's programs, you can choose between 24, 36, or 48 months. Therefore, you can opt for a 3-, 4-, or 6-year model in the Bachelor's program (or a 2-, 3-, or 4-year model in the Master’s program), depending on your available time and desired learning pace. The study setup is designed so that all modules are achievable even in the shortest model, while the longest model provides more flexibility for work and family. Switching between models during the studies is possible if you find that another pace suits your life situation better. Additionally, if needed, you can easily extend your chosen study model for up to 12 months free of charge – another buffer in case of unforeseen delays. There are no rigid semester deadlines: you can individually plan which and how many modules you work on per period. It is up to you whether you take several modules in parallel or study them consecutively. Typically, the university recommends completing about six modules per semester to progress rapidly (equivalent to full-time studies). However, the pace can be adjusted at any time, and there are no mandatory exams at fixed semester ends – you determine the learning pace and the sequence of subjects largely by yourself.

After enrollment, you gain access to the studynet learning platform, which serves as a virtual campus. There, you will find all study materials and organize your study process. Hochschule Fresenius provides comprehensive digital teaching materials: Each module offers so-called Studymags on studynet, which present the content chapter-by-chapter in a didactic format. These Studymags are digital scripts, often enriched with graphics, case studies, and summaries. In addition, instructional videos are available – lectures or explanatory videos that illustrate important topics. There are also e-books, academic articles, and module-specific exercises, allowing you to delve deeper into the subject and test your knowledge. You are free to decide which materials to use and in what order; there are no fixed lecture times or weekly assignments, but everything runs through self-study with recommended milestones. The university, however, supports you with a structured study plan and milestones based on Studymags to facilitate progress – so you can maintain a thread even in self-study. Time-wise, you are entirely flexible: you can theoretically study in the mornings, evenings, or on weekends, depending on how it fits into your daily routine. Each module defines specific exam content; you determine when to register for the exam within predefined deadlines.

Practical and easily understandable. Learning is effortless with the studymags from Hochschule Fresenius. Two pages from a studymag.

All learning content is available online. For those who prefer paper-based learning, the university offers a special service: The digital Studymags are available as high-quality print booklets (similar to a magazine) for a fee. These printed booklets come with QR codes through which you can access additional digital content (such as videos or online exercises) at any time. However, the print materials are optional – all content is typically available digitally, so there is no obligation to purchase additional materials. You are also well-equipped for studying on the go: the Studymags can be downloaded as PDF or ePub files on a tablet, e-reader, or smartphone for reading or annotating. This allows you to efficiently continue studying, for example, on a train or during lunch breaks.

The distance learning program at Hochschule Fresenius is primarily designed so that no regular on-site events need to be attended. You can complete the entire program from home (or any location). Lectures do not take place in lecture halls but are delivered online via studynet. However, depending on the program, there are occasionally optional on-site elements: For instance, some modules offer voluntary workshops or internships that you can participate in but are not mandatory. A unique optional offering is the SaturdayOnly study format. This hybrid model combines distance learning with occasional Saturday on-site meetings. Specifically, you learn the theories and fundamentals flexibly online but meet approximately once a month on Saturdays at one of Fresenius's nationwide study centres to apply what you've learned in small groups. In these on-site workshops, you work on case studies, practical exercises, and have the opportunity for direct discussions with professors and fellow students. SaturdayOnly is designed for distance students who do not want to entirely forego personal exchange. However, it is not mandatory – those who prefer to study entirely online can complete all mandatory content digitally.

Only for exams, it may be necessary to come to a physical location in some cases. For this purpose, Hochschule Fresenius maintains a network of examination centres in Germany. However, great emphasis is placed on minimizing the number of mandatory on-site exams. Wherever possible, alternatives such as online exams or assignments are offered so that you do not have to travel. If an on-site exam is required, dates are announced well in advance and limited to a few key dates to reduce the effort. Overall, you can expect distance learning to be largely location-independent – that is one of the key advantages of this study model.

Types of Examinations in Distance Learning at Hochschule Fresenius

Distance learning at Hochschule Fresenius involves various types of examinations. Classical exams are just one option; there is a wide range of alternative assessment methods tailored to the needs of distance students. The aim is to reduce the stress of exams with fixed in-person sittings and instead provide flexible examination opportunities. Here are the key examination types and how they work:

Exams: Traditional written examinations, usually lasting 60-120 minutes, focusing on the module content. At Hochschule Fresenius, exams can be taken either as on-site exams at a test centre or online. On-site exams take place under supervision at predetermined dates (similar to a university exam). Online exams are conducted using examination software; students are monitored via webcam and microphone to ensure fair test conditions similar to an examination room. This means, for example, that you need to verify your identity before the online exam and are recorded by camera during the exam. The rules align with standard exam rules (e.g. no unauthorized aids), the only difference being that you take the exam from home. This online proctoring method was particularly used during the pandemic to conduct exams remotely and continues to be an option. It is important to note that online and on-site exams are equivalent in content – you can typically choose your preferred format. Both are closed-book exams, meaning that only permitted resources are allowed to be used (e.g. usually a non-programmable calculator if necessary). However, some online exams are implemented as open-book exams (see below). The university ensures that there are sufficient exam options available at each study location.

Assignments: Written assignments in which you independently work on a question or project. An assignment typically extends over several weeks of work. You will conduct research, apply theories to an issue, and produce a written report or essay. Assignments are a way to evaluate practical and analytical skills. In distance learning, assignments are frequently used instead of exams because they can be completed at any time and location. Once completed, you upload your finished work online as a PDF. The evaluation is based on academic criteria (content, structure, academic work). Assignments promote self-organized learning and demonstrate that you can apply what you have learned.

Presentations: Oral assessment tasks that involve presenting a topic. This could take place in a virtual setting, for instance, through a video conference, as part of the distance learning program. Hochschule Fresenius use such formats particularly in modules where communication skills or knowledge application are important. Typically, you prepare a presentation (e.g. a PowerPoint) on a given topic and present it online to your examiner or a small group. Following the presentation, there is often further discussion or questions. These online presentations allow assessment of oral competencies without the need for physical presence. Sometimes presentations are also conducted in groups (virtual group work), fostering collaboration.

Open-Book Exams: A special form of exam that takes place without supervision and where aids are permitted. Open-Book exams usually unfold as follows: You receive the task (often online via download) at a specific time and then have a certain period (e.g. 24 or 48 hours) to work on the solutions. During this time, you are allowed to refer to your materials, books, or digital resources – so "looking up" information is permitted. In some cases, students are required to declare honestly at the end that they completed the work independently and only used authorized aids. Alternatively, from the outset, everything is allowed, of course, which means that the tasks are application-oriented and challenging (simply copying from notes won't lead to success). Open-Book exams are particularly useful for assessing transfer skills: you have to apply knowledge, not just memorize it. Hochschule Fresenius has increasingly introduced Open-Book formats, particularly during the pandemic, to facilitate flexible, secure examination from home. These exams are downloaded as a PDF, completed by you (on PC or scanned handwriting), and then uploaded within the deadline. Open-Book exams reduce exam anxiety and travel requirements but require good time management and an understanding of the subject matter

Online Tests and 24/7 Exams: In addition to the formats above, many modules offer online quizzes or tests, either as a prerequisite (unchecked) or small graded assessments. An innovative offering from Hochschule Fresenius is 24/7 Online Exams: In a growing number of modules, you can complete an exam entirely flexibly at a self-chosen time online. These exams are practically available "on demand" – you initiate the exam process whenever you are ready, even at night or on weekends. This is made possible through automated monitoring solutions and time-independent tasks. Keeping you maximally flexible, you must adhere to the specified rules and processing times. The introduction of such formats demonstrates the advancement of digitalisation in examinations.

The variety of assessment methods ensures that not only rote learning is evaluated but also practical skills and transfer knowledge. This benefits you professionally and enhances the acceptance of distance learning programs by employers – HR appreciate the key competencies acquired through distance learning such as self-organization and perseverance.

Meet the faculty and support staff at Fresenius University

The quality of teaching in the distance learning programmes at Fresenius University is ensured by a highly qualified team of professors and lecturers. Fresenius University has experienced faculty members who are not only academically qualified but also bring practical experience in their respective fields. For example, in the onlineplus department (the distance learning faculty), renowned experts like Prof. Dr.-Ing. Heiko Gsell and Prof. Dr.-Ing. Dirk Rilling have been appointed. Prof. Gsell is a specialist in business informatics and digital business models, while Prof. Rilling is an expert in industrial engineering – both have strengthened the professorial team in distance learning since 2018. Such luminaries in their field guarantee current and well-founded content. In other areas as well, distinguished scholars teach – from psychology to business administration to healthcare – enabling students to benefit from a wide range of expertise.

In addition to the expertise of the faculty, the university places great emphasis on individual support for distance learning students. Each student is assigned a personal Studycoach from the first day of enrolment until graduation. These Studycoaches act as academic mentors or "personal trainers" for the students. They assist with study organization, provide learning tips, and are available to answer any questions related to studying. Whether adjusting study plans, overcoming motivational slumps, or clarifying administrative queries – your Studycoach is your first point of contact. Support is tailored to your needs: Some students engage in regular coaching sessions, while others reach out only for specific concerns. Importantly, you are not alone in your studies, even in a distance learning setting. The Studycoaches share the same goal as you – ensuring your successful completion – and support you accordingly.

The faculty members themselves are also accessible for questions. Through the online platform studynet, you can interact with professors at any time – whether in discussion forums, via internal messages, or during virtual office hours. Studynet serves as a virtual campus where exchanges similar to those on a physical campus are possible: Asking questions to lecturers, engaging in discussions with peers, and working on group assignments can all take place there.

Many modules offer regular live chats or webinars where instructors answer questions in real-time or explain complex topics again. Additionally, some learning groups are formed (virtually or locally) to facilitate mutual support among students. The support concepts in distance learning aim to foster a sense of community and provide close guidance to students, despite being physically dispersed. Testimonials frequently highlight the excellent support and organization provided. Fresenius University publicly acknowledges and responds to feedback from distance learning students, demonstrating its responsiveness to student concerns.

In addition to Studycoaches and faculty members, there is a student service (academic advisory service) available on weekdays for administrative queries. Whether regarding exam registration, certificates, or technical assistance – the service team provides support via phone, email, or chat throughout the day. Overall, the support structure in distance learning is extensive, ensuring that assistance is accessible whenever needed. The combination of qualified faculty and personal support ensures that students have a high-quality and humanely supported learning experience, despite the distance.

Digital Learning and Online Campus

Distance learning at Fresenius University is a full-fledged online study programme that makes full use of modern digital possibilities. The central hub is the studynet Online Campus, an award-winning learning platform. Studynet serves as a virtual auditorium, seminar room, and canteen: teaching and informal exchanges occur digitally here. Through studynet, you can organize your studies, access learning modules, communicate with instructors, and connect with your fellow students.

The platform is user-friendly and allows for forum discussions, direct messaging, shared file storage for group work, and much more. You can engage with your fellow students online, form study groups, or simply ask questions in the general student forum - just like on a real campus, but in a virtual setting. For interaction with instructors, there are features such as live webinars or office hour chats where you can ask questions. Through these networking possibilities, a sense of community is created despite being in a distance learning setting, ensuring that no one has to study in isolation.

The learning materials are presented in multimedia formats and digitally provided, which boosts efficient self-study. The mentioned study magazines (digital study booklets) are a key element of the didactic concept - they present the material in easily digestible chapters, often including practical examples, graphics, and summaries to aid understanding. Additionally, instructional videos are used, which may visualize complex processes or include lectures by professors. By combining text, video, and interactive exercises (such as online quizzes), different learning styles are catered to. For example, you can read about a topic in the study magazine, watch an explanatory video, and then test your understanding with practice exercises. This blended learning methodology is firmly embedded in the concept, making distance learning engaging. In case you are without internet access, materials can be downloaded in advance (e.g. PDF scripts or video files) for offline study. For on-the-go learning, the studynet app and mobile access options are also available.

In addition to course materials, the university also provides extensive digital library resources. Through the online library of Fresenius University, you can access numerous e-books, online journals, and databases. This is crucial for papers and in-depth research. If literature is not available online, as a distance learner, you can also use the physical libraries of Fresenius University at their locations or even visit other university libraries in your vicinity (through partnerships). Many university libraries in Germany allow external students to use their facilities for a small yearly fee - Fresenius provides the necessary documentation (student ID) so you can borrow books on-site. However, in practice, you will find much of what you need online, as the university regularly expands its electronic resources.

Another aspect of digital learning is the use of the latest technologies. Fresenius University actively drives digitization and integrates modern tools into teaching and administration. An example is the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in studies: Since the summer semester of 2024, all students and instructors have access to NextGeneration:AI, an AI platform with language models like ChatGPT, Mistral, and Llama. This platform was developed in cooperation with Microsoft and an IT service provider to enable a data protection-compliant use of generative AI.

For students, this means that they can use ChatGPT-like AI tools for studying - whether for research, coding practice, or brainstorming - and learn to professionally deal with AI in a secure environment. The introduction of this technology to all 36,000 students of the educational group shows that the university is an early adopter of trends and aims to prepare its students for the future. Topics like digital ethics, data security, and AI competencies are also integrated into the curricula, ensuring that you not only learn your subject but also understand the digital transformation.

Furthermore, there are other digital offerings. For example, the StudyPLUS platform, where students (and alumni) can take advantage of additional educational opportunities. Here you can find free extra courses, certificate programs, or soft skills training exclusively for Fresenius students. Such offerings allow you to explore beyond your actual course of study, learning languages, IT skills, or other areas. Networking events or career services are also available online to support your professional development.

In summary, distance learning at Fresenius University is fully digitally supported. You benefit from a modern e-learning infrastructure that is continuously evolving. At the same time, the human connection is maintained through virtual collaboration, live events, and personal support at the click of a button. This combination of flexibility, technological integration, and support makes the study experience at Fresenius unique. The university also emphasizes in its mission that it aims to achieve a balance between tradition and innovation, offering students a future-oriented and reliable educational experience.

The Cost of Distance Learning at Fresenius University

Distance learning at Fresenius University is associated with tuition fees, as it is a private institution. The fees are transparent and communicated clearly before enrollment. The exact amount depends on the course of study and the chosen timeframe model.

In general, you can expect to pay around 300 to 500 euros per month for a Bachelor's distance learning programme, depending on whether you choose the longest or shortest model. For example, a Bachelor's programme in the 72-month model costs less per month (e.g. around 315 euros monthly), whereas in the 36-month model, the monthly rate is higher - but it significantly shortens the overall study time.

It's important to note that the total fees vary depending on the model - the longer model is slightly more expensive overall because the additional flexibility comes at an extra cost, while the shorter model offers a discount on the total price.

A similar situation applies to Master's programmes (where fees often range in comparable monthly amounts, sometimes slightly higher, depending on the field). Payment is usually made on a monthly basis, providing you with consistent installments. If you decide to change the pace of your studies during the programme, you can - in consultation with the university - switch to a different payment model (e.g. from 48 to 72 months) to adjust the rates. There are no hidden costs: the university ensures full transparency and guarantees that all necessary costs for distance learning are included in the stated fees.

The tuition fees cover all services related to your studies. These include, in particular: access to the online learning platform studynet and all digital learning materials, interactive study magazines, video lectures, support from study coaches and instructors, use of the online library, as well as all regular examination fees. Therefore, you do not need to budget for additional fees for exam registrations or similar - even the final thesis, certificates, etc. are covered by the tuition fees. Fresenius University explicitly advertises that there are no unexpected additional costs and that everything essential is included in the price. Upon starting your studies, you will also receive a student ID, which would correspond in public universities to the semester fee, but here is already covered by the tuition fees.

However, there may be some optional or external costs that you should consider:

Travel to in-person exams: As mentioned above, the majority of exams are held online or in alternative formats. However, if there is an in-person exam (e.g. a final exam for a module), you would need to cover the costs of travel to the exam centre and potential accommodation yourself. The university limits such in-person sessions to a minimum, and many students can take their exams entirely online. Nevertheless, bear in mind that 1-2 trips may be necessary during your studies. These costs (travel, accommodation, meals) vary depending on your place of residence and are not included in the tuition fees.

Voluntary in-person workshops: If you wish to participate in the optional format SaturdayOnly or attend other voluntary on-site events, you would also be responsible for the travel and any participation costs. Participation in such events is voluntary and not part of the fee package since the purely distance learning programme is entirely covered online.

Printed learning materials: As mentioned, you have the option to purchase printed versions of the study magazines. These are offered for a fee via a webshop. The digital versions are available for free; the printed booklets cost extra (price depending on content, usually in the double-digit euro range per booklet). It's up to you whether you choose to use this additional offer - many students manage without printed materials.

Technical equipment: Naturally, for distance learning, you need internet access and a suitable device (PC/laptop). The university expects this equipment but does not provide it. In your cost planning, you should consider your computer, possibly a camera/headset for online exams, etc. Most people already have these items. Special software or access to online tools required for academic work (e.g. statistical programs, if part of the curriculum) are provided by the university.

In conclusion, it can be said that while distance learning at Fresenius University involves significant costs, they are transparent and predictable. The university offers flexible payment models and various support options to ease financing. Thanks to the included services such as learning materials, online access, and exam fees, there are hardly any unexpected costs during the course. Investing in this distance learning programme can be worthwhile considering the qualifications and career opportunities obtained - however, interested parties should carefully calculate and explore the mentioned financing options beforehand to make an informed decision for or against studying at Fresenius University. Each prospective student has individual circumstances, and the university offers personal consultations to assess whether the distance learning offer is suitable and affordable for you. This way, with a clear understanding of the services, processes, and costs, you can decide whether this flexible study model is your path to the next career step.