Credit: Anna Logue
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, for example by means of service-learning courses. These allow me to gain practical experience and further develop as a future teacher.
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 seminars in German and Political Science. 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.
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.
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!
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.
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 English and another language (may be proven at a later date). You can prove your language proficiency if you have taken this subject in school or by taking a language test. For more details, please see here.
If you are not a German citizen or do not have a German university entrance qualification (Abitur or equivalent qualification), you must submit proof of proficiency in German on C1 level.Program start: Fall semester (September)
Academic calendarSchool: School of Humanities
Semester fee: € 204,30 (further information)
Tuition fees for international students from non-EU countries: €1,500
Tuition fees for a second degree: €650Program 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. You will look at different genres, theories, and the history of literature in modules on Literary Studies. The program 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 courses, you explore the challenges that come with teaching multicultural and multilingual groups.
Courses in 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).
Structure of the bachelor's program in Teacher Education (in German)
Why study Teacher Education: German at the University of Mannheim?
The Humanities at the University of Mannheim have an excellent reputation in Germany (ranking results). 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 students. 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.
Career opportunities
After completing the program, graduates have a wide range of further education and career options. The traditional career path is working as a school teacher. If you want to become a teacher, you need to pursue a master's program in Teacher Education (Lehramt Gymnasium) to be admitted to the preparatory service (Referendariat). You are then allowed to teach at secondary or vocational schools. Please note that you can only teach at secondary schools if you study the subject combination History and Political Science as well as Economics and Business Administration.
Required interests and skills
- 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.
- 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
In the teacher education programs, there are diverse and exciting opportunities for studying abroad. The University of Mannheim is part of a global network and is partners with about 450 universities worldwide. The International Office can help you plan a period of study abroad. We recommend that students go abroad during the fifth subject-specific semester. Studying abroad is optional, and is encouraged by the School. Coursework and examinations completed abroad can usually be recognized so that the period of study does not have to be extended.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 secondary school (Gymnasium) 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.Continuing Education
Certificate programs
Strengthen your potential, deepen your knowledge, find solutions for challenges we will face tomorrow – there are many good reasons to think outside the box, get to know and try out new things even during your studies.At the University of Mannheim, you can do this in the “Studium Oecologicum” which focuses on sustainability. In our certificate program, you will acquire interdisciplinary expert knowledge which can help you to act ethically and to make holistic decisions.
Language courses
Making language learning easier: No matter if you want to learn Japanese, Hebrew, Spanish or Norwegian, take the Graduate Record Examination Test (GRE), The European Language Certificates (telc) or the TOEFL test – each semester, the University of Mannheim offers language courses and language certificates in more than 16 languages for students and non-university members, online and on campus!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 bachelor's program in Teacher Education)
Application and selection
At the University of Mannheim, a traditional numerus clausus (within the meaning of a minimum grade required for admission) does not exist. In our selection process, we take numerous criteria into account. For more details, please check the selection statutes (see below). Be bold!
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need advice. We are looking forward to receiving your application!
In our selection process for the Bachelor's Program in Teacher Education: German, we take the following criteria into account:
- the grade average achieved in your university entrance qualification,
- the grades achieved in German, English, Mathematics, and a subject relating to social sciences,
- 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 (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 semesters starts on 1 June and ends on 15 July.
What it's like to study and live in Mannheim
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The University of Mannheim is the most popular university in Germany
In the students' vote on the Studycheck.de platform, the University of Mannheim has reached the top position among all universities. This makes the University of Mannheim the most popular university in Germany.
read more about the award (in German)