Photo credit: Anna Logue

Bachelor's Program in Teacher Education: German

I decided to study at the University of Mannheim because of its beautiful campus and the choice of subjects The seminars and courses in German and Philosophy/Ethics are very interesting and diverse. In some cases, students are even involved in deciding on the subjects to be taught and may suggests topics that they are interested in! I like the practical orientation of the modules in Education Sciences that are constantly being enhanced, so for example by means of service-learning courses. These allow me to gain practical experience and further develop as a future teacher.

Lena Stabel, student in the program in Teacher Education: German, Philosophy/Ethics / Photo credit: Jula Jacob

I decided to study at the University of Mannheim because of its excellent reputation in the field of Social Sciences. The University of Mannheim closely collaborates with schools and the master’s program in Teacher Education thus has been perfectly adapted to the challenges that schools face nowadays. I always felt like I was well looked after thanks to small groups in the German and Politics seminars. Since the academic approach to the subject is well combined with practical experience, you have a wide range of career opportunities, not only in teaching.

Annamaria Grossmann, graduate of the program in Teacher Education: German, Politics / Photo credit: Zoe Olsen

The University of Mannheim offers excellent Teacher Education programs. As students, we receive an exceptional academic training in subject-specific topics complemented by courses in Teaching Methodology and Education Science that have a strong practical orientation, thus preparing us very well for our future daily routine as teachers. Furthermore, we have the opportunity to choose a third subject, the so-called Master of Education Extension Subject, while still in the bachelor’s program. This way, it is possible to pursue one’s own interests and even improve one’s career prospects without having to extend the duration of the program. This is the reason why the University of Mannheim is an outstanding university to study Teacher Education.

Sören Hengstberger, student in the program in Teacher Education: German Studies, Economics, Political Science / Photo credit: Jula Jacob

After graduating from high school, I decided to become a teacher in order to be able to accompany the “heroes of tomorrow” for a while, and my choice quickly fell on the University of Mannheim. In addition to the great opportunity of studying two languages in a palace building, the variety of courses was very appealing to me. Though the campus of the University of Mannheim is moderate in size, it is big enough to allow you to get to know people from all over the world. So I quickly realized: I don't want to leave this place!

Sina Weiller, student in the program in Teacher Education: German, English / Photo credit: Adrian Szafranski

The program in Teacher Education at the University of Mannheim has not only educated me professionally but also personally in all respects. Theory and practice are perfectly combined and I feel ideally prepared for my future career. As students, we are surrounded by a network of advisors for subject-specific academic advice, program managers and/or academic staff members who are always happy to help with all questions and issues we may have. This way, we can fully concentrate on our studies.

Ricarda Droste, student in the program in Teacher Education: German, Political Science / Photo credit: Fotostudio klassisch-modern

Program facts and information

Degree: Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.)
Standard period of study: 6 semesters (3 years)
ECTS credits: 180
(70 in German, 70 in a second subject, 19 in Education Sciences, 15 in Teaching Methodology, 6 in the bachelor's thesis)
Language of instruction: German
Language requirements: This program requires proof of proficiency in German on C1 level.
Proficiency in English and another foreign language is required as well (you can prove your proficiency in English and another foreign language at a later date, further information).
Program start: Fall semester (September)
Academic Calendar
School: School of Humanities

Semester fee: €194.30 (further information)
Tuition fees for international students from non-EU countries: €1,500
Tuition fees for a second degree: €650

Further informations for prospective students in Teaching Education of the University of Mannheim
Read more about the bachelor’s program in Teacher Education
Brochure on the bachelor’s program in Teacher Education (only available in German)
Program overview

Students of the bachelor’s program in Teacher Education: German study German, a second equally-weighted subject, Education Sciences and Teaching Methodology.

Modules in German teach you about modern and classic German literature and linguistics. During modules on Literary Studies, you will look at different genres, theories, and the history of literature. Of course, it also involves reading lots of books by the likes of Friedrich Schiller, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Heinrich von Kleist, Franz Kafka, Feridun Zaimoglu and Juli Zeh. Linguistics modules teach you about the development and functions of language, and linguistic features and structures.

You address the practical, basic principles of German lessons at school in modules on Teaching Methodology: Which methods can I use to teach pupils about a subject and to develop their skills? Which content, methods, and social arrangements can I use to foster my teaching in the classroom?
In interdisciplinary classes, you explore the challenges that come with teaching multicultural and multilingual groups.

Classes on Education Sciences cover the basic scientific principles behind teaching and learning, and are complemented by the practical experiences gained during the first school placement (Orientierungspraktikum).
Why study Teacher Education: German at the University of Mannheim?

The Humanities at the University of Mannheim have an excellent reputation in Germany. With 450 partner universities, and students from 100 countries, Mannheim is one of the most international universities in the country, and provides students with an inspiring learning environment that facilitates excellent teaching and research.

The Bachelor of Education program at the University of Mannheim prepares students for a teaching career right from the start and places a focus on teaching linguistically and culturally diverse groups of pupils.
Most students on the program want to become teachers after they graduate. But if you decide during your studies that teaching isn’t for you, you have the option of pursuing a master’s program in a different field. There are many career options outside of schools open to you.

Our students particularly value the broad and varied range of modules available at the Department of German Studies, which cover the basic principles of Linguistics and Literary Studies, and address the latest topics in these fields. Focus is placed on different types of media, and the Department works with a range of cultural institutions in the city, such as the National Theater, Mannheim.

Students at the School of Humanities value the ability to work in small groups. Academic advisors, program managers, and teachers are happy to answer your questions on the program.
Career opportunities

A bachelor’s degree in Teacher Education gives you different career options.
The traditional option is to work at a school. If you want to become a teacher, you must also complete a Master of Education in Teacher Education to be eligible for the preparatory service. Once completed, you can teach at a Gymnasium secondary school or a vocational school in Germany.

Alternatively, you can build on the skills learned during your bachelor’s program by studying a master’s program in a literary, cultural or linguistic field. A degree in German qualifies you to work as a journalist, editor, artist or copywriter.
Required interests and skills
Students of German should:
- have an excellent command of the German language,
- enjoy scientifically analyzing German literature, language and culture,
- not be put off by complex texts, theories, and methods,
- read frequently (in German, and sometimes in English),
- be capable of critical thinking and like discussing topics,
- enjoy writing academic texts.
Students of Teacher Education should:
- like working with young people and understand their problems,
- enjoy presenting and explaining things,
- be confident,
- be enthusiastic about their subjects and the job, and be able to pass this enthusiasm on to others,
- be able to accept criticism and reflect on themselves,
- communicate in a clear and understandable manner.
Program structure

Module catalog
You can find further details on how the program is structured in the module catalog.

Studying abroad
The University of Mannheim is well-connected internationally, and is partners with around 450 universities around the world. The International Office can help you to plan a semester of study abroad. The ideal time to study abroad is during the fifth semester of the program. Studying abroad is optional, and is encouraged by the School. Credits that you obtain abroad are normally recognized by the University of Mannheim, which means that you do not have to extend the duration of your studies.

Internships
All students of bachelor's programs in Teacher Education in Baden-Württemberg complete their first school placement (Orientierungspraktikum) during the program. The placement lasts for three weeks, and gives students the chance to gain initial practical experience during their studies.
Students at the University of Mannheim attend a block seminar while completing their placement. Both the placement and the seminar usually take place during the semester break before the third semester begins (June/July).
Students can either do their placement at a Gymnasium secondary school or a vocational school. The Center for Teacher Education and Educational Innovation can answer your questions on the application process and the format of the placement.

Sample course schedule
These courses are studied in the first semester.
Further study

The following degree programs are (mainly) taught in German:
Master’s program in Teacher Education (M.Ed.)
Master’s program in Language and Communication (M.A.)
Master’s program in Literature, Media and Culture in the Modern Era (M.A.)
Master’s program in Intercultural German Studies (M.A.)
Master’s program in Culture and Economy: German Studies (M.A.) (If you chose German and Economics and Business Administration as your two main subjects for the B.Ed. Teacher Education program.)
Application and selection
Admission to the degree programs at the University of Mannheim is not selective within the meaning of a tradional numerus clausus (NC). Instead, we take the following criteria into account in our selection process:
- the grade average achieved in your university entrance qualification,
- the grades achieved in German, English, Mathematics, and a subject relating to Social Science,
- relevant work experience and extracurricular activities.
German language proficiency
If you are not a German citizen or do not have a German university entrance qualification (e.g. Abitur or equivalent school leaving certificate), you must prove German language proficiency at C1 level.

Selection statutes
Under “Application and selection” we have compiled the most important selection criteria of the program for you. For more detailed explanations of the selection process and the legally binding requirements of the degree program, please refer to the selection statutes.
Application
The application deadline for our bachelor's programs for the fall semester 2022/2023 will start on 1 June and will end on 15 July 2022.
Read more: Website of the Admissions Office
Normally, the following deadline applies:
You can apply from 15 May to 15 July.
apply

Contact

Florian Dorner

Program Manager for Teacher Education Programs

Momentan bin ich telefonisch nur eingeschränkt erreichbar. Bitte kontaktieren Sie mich per E-Mail.

University of Mannheim
School of Humanities
Schloss – Room EO 286
68161 Mannheim

Phone: +49 621 181–2171
E-mail: lehramtuni-mannheim.de
Web: www.uni-mannheim.de/lehramt-gymnasium

Consultation hour(s):
Open consultation hours and telephone service hours are cancelled until further notice. Please contact me via e–mail.

Admissions Office

University of Mannheim
L 1, 1 – Room 157, 158
68161 Mannheim

E-mail: bewerbunguni-mannheim.de
Web: www.bib.uni-mannheim.de/en/academics/applying/contacting-the-admissions-office

Photo credit: Anna Logue

Program facts and information

Program overview

Why study Teacher Education: German at the University of Mannheim?

Career opportunities

Required interests and skills

Program structure

Further study

Application and selection

Florian Dorner

Admissions Office