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I decided to study at the University of Mannheim because of its beautiful campus and the choice of subjects. The seminars and courses in Philosophy/
Ethics and German 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.
The master’s program in Teacher Education offers a multitude of opportunities in both subjects to freely choose your own specializations and organize your studies in a flexible and individual manner within the program’s given structure. The modules in Education Sciences cover a wide range of topics so you feel very well prepared for a teaching position. The University Library provides a great learning environment, which also contributes to the students’ academic success. Besides, the City of Mannheim is the perfect place for students. The university is located right in the heart of the city so you can easily combine living and studying.
Program facts and information
Degree: Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.)
Standard period of study: 6 semesters (= 3 years)
ECTS credits: 180
(70 in Philosophy and Ethics, 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, a Latinum or Graecum language certificate (may be obtained later if required).
You can prove your language proficiency if you have taken this subject in school or by taking a language test. For more details, please refer to the information sheet on proofs of language proficiency.
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: Philosophy/
Ethics study Philosophy, a second equally-weighted subject, Education Sciences and Teaching Methodology. Philosophy addresses the general basic concepts of human thoughts and behavior, and questions truth and perception, the good life, morality and justice, and social and cultural practices. By studying Philosophy and Ethics, you will become familiar with historical, and contemporary, philosophical positions. The modules teach you systematic skills such as reasoning and arguing, and show you how to analyze complex problems and develop structured solutions.
You address the following questions in modules on Teaching Methodology: Which methods can I use to teach pupils about a subject and to develop their skills? Which challenges 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: Philosophy/
Ethics 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.
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
- be interested in contemporary social questions, and be curious about the subject,
- read frequently,
- be capable of analytical and critical thinking,
- like debating and be able to argue well,
- not be put off by complex texts, theories, and methods,
- 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.Further study
The following degree programs are (mainly) taught in German:
Master’s program in Teacher Education (M.Ed.)
Master’s program in Culture and Economy: Philosophy (M.A.) (If you chose Philosophy and Economics and Business Administration as your two main subjects for the Bachelor of Education program.)
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 the following criteria into account:
- the grade average achieved in your university entrance qualification,
- the grades achieved in German, English, Mathematics, and a foreign language,
- 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.
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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)