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- state university in the green heart of Germany
- particularly personal distance learning with small study groups
- many opportunities for networking with professors and fellow students
- regular short presence phases in the form of block seminars
Distance Learning at Schmalkalden University
Schmalkalden University is a state university located in the green heart of Germany in Thuringia. In addition to 24 on-site study programs, the university offers 12 part-time bachelor's and master's programs in the fields of business, computer science, engineering, and various certificate programs. The programs are conducted in the 5 faculties of business, business law, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and computer science.
The university was founded in 1991. Currently, there are almost 2500 students enrolled, including about 500 in part-time distance learning programs. The students are supported by over 60 professors and more than 200 staff members.
How Part-Time Study Works at Schmalkalden University
Distance learning at Schmalkalden University is a particularly personal distance learning experience with small study groups, regular block seminars, and personal exchange between teachers and students.
The programs start in the winter and summer semesters. An advantage is that you study in fixed study groups and complete your entire program more motivated and alongside your fellow students, whom you will meet in the first semester. The standard period of study for bachelor's programs is 8 semesters, which can be shortened to 6 semesters, for example, through relevant professional qualifications or work experience. The master's programs last 5 semesters.
As is common in distance learning, you mainly study on your own with the help of study materials that you receive regularly. Additionally, you have access to the university's online campus or learning management system where you can download teaching materials and information.
What's special about the HSM distance learning program is the regular on-site block events in Schmalkalden or at partner locations. In the B.A. Business Administration, for example, 4-5 presence phases per semester are planned in the first six subject-specific semesters. The block seminars last 3 days each and mostly take place on weekends.
The presence phases add more structure to your studies and ensure lively exchanges between students and teachers. During these events, exams are also conducted. Many HSM students also use the block seminars to explore the beautiful surroundings of Schmalkalden and the Thuringian Forest.
Tip: Learn more about distance learning at Schmalkalden University in the information material that you can request here. The brochure provides detailed information about requirements, procedures, study content, and fees in the HSM distance learning program. Order brochure here ...Cost of Distance Learning at Schmalkalden University
For their distance learning programs, Schmalkalden University charges tuition fees. The tuition fees are paid at the beginning of each semester for that semester. In addition, the university charges the usual semester fee for state universities.
Here is an overview of the tuition fees and semester fees for the bachelor's and master's programs:
| Course | Fees | |
|---|---|---|
| Applied Plastic Engineering, Master of Engineering Part-time distance learning program | from 12800 € total from 2560 € Semester fee | |
| Business administration, Bachelor of Arts Part-time distance learning program | from 11880 € total from 1980 € Semester fee | |
| Business Engineering and Digitalization, Bachelor of Engineering Part-time distance learning program | from 13080 € total from 2180 € Semester fee | |
| Business informatics and digital transformation., Bachelor of Science Part-time distance learning program | from 12600 € total from 2100 € Semester fee | |
| Commercial law, Bachelor of Laws Part-time distance learning program | from 11880 € total from 1980 € Semester fee | |
| Computer Science and IT Management, Master of Science Part-time distance learning program | from 12300 € total from 2460 € Semester fee | |
| Corporate management, Master of Arts Part-time distance learning program | from 11800 € total from 2360 € Semester fee | |
| Electrical Engineering and Management, Master of Engineering Part-time distance learning program | from 12800 € total from 2560 € Semester fee | |
| Mechanical Engineering and Management, Master of Engineering Part-time distance learning program | from 12800 € total from 2560 € Semester fee | |
| Public Law and Management, Master of Public Administration Part-time distance learning program | from 11800 € total from 2360 € Semester fee | |
| Retail Management, Master of Arts Part-time distance learning program | from 11800 € total from 2360 € Semester fee | |
| Sustainability management, Master of Science Part-time distance learning program | from 13800 € total from 2760 € Semester fee | |
| Tax law and tax theory, Master of Laws Part-time distance learning program | from 14700 € total from 2940 € Semester fee |
You may be able to claim tax deductions for the tuition fees and all costs associated with your distance learning! You can deduct the costs as work-related expenses if you can prove that the distance learning is professionally motivated. Contact the university's student advisory service for information on further funding opportunities.
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Experiences & Reviews
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The University of Schmalkalden offers part-time distance learning courses through its Centre for Continuing Education, which are highly rated by students overall. Feedback shows that the combination of practical content, reliable study organization, and individual support are among the strengths of distance learning at the HSM.
Students highlight the practical and up-to-date study content. The course content is described as challenging but directly applicable, making it easier to transfer to the professional environment.
Additionally, the lecturers impress with their high level of expertise and commitment. Many come from both academia and practice, making the lessons lively and motivating. The atmosphere is described as very positive, interactive, and never boring, as the teachers respond to the students' needs and teach with enthusiasm.
An outstanding advantage is the support in distance learning. Many students praise the personal support and assistance as excellent. Students have designated contact persons who help quickly and individually with questions or problems. The study coordination is described as exemplary – inquiries are promptly answered, and special circumstances or requests of students are flexibly accommodated. This intensive support significantly contributes to balancing studies, work, and family life.
In general, the distance learning model at the University of Schmalkalden offers high flexibility: the mix of self-study and short on-site blocks (usually three to four weekend sessions per semester) is tailored to part-time learning. The on-site phases can be planned well in advance and are seen as useful for deepening the material with instructors and classmates. Overall, the study organization is perceived by most as well thought out and structured.
The university's online platform (Online Campus) works reliably and enables exchange in small study groups. The learning materials such as scripts and instructional videos are considered practical, and the permanent availability is appreciated; many find the ability to view lecture recordings multiple times helpful.
Despite the overall very high satisfaction, some students also mention criticisms. Some note that the quality of on-site seminars can vary – while many find these events extremely useful and enriching, some seminars are perceived by individuals as slightly outdated or less motivating. Some wished for more interactive elements in this regard, as well as a stronger integration of concrete practical projects and soft skills topics into the course. In rare cases, there were complaints about organizational issues, such as changing lecture schedules making it difficult for working professionals to plan, or long grading times for exams.
Regarding the value for money, the feedback is mostly positive: as a state provider, the tuition fees are significantly lower than those of many private distance learning universities. Many students consider the costs fair and appropriate given the quality offered – however, some still criticize the absolute price or would have expected slightly more service considering the fees.
Overall, the positive experiences far outweigh the negative ones. The University of Schmalkalden is perceived by its distance learners as an extremely competent and reliable educational provider. Particularly, the practical content, excellent support, and flexibility of the distance learning programme contribute to a high level of satisfaction.
Disclaimer: This editorial review is based on an analysis of publicly available reviews, testimonials, and opinions from various sources. The summary provides an objective and factual representation of the most common positive and negative aspects as reported by current and former students. It does not claim to be complete or absolutely accurate. Individual experiences may vary, and it is recommended to conduct additional research independently before making a study decision.
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