German as a Second and Foreign Language for Work and Specialised Studies Paderborn University

IN A NUTSHELL
As a prospective expert in German as a Second Language / Foreign Language, this degree programme centres on the guiding principle that linguistic and subject-specific learning – especially in the context of work and higher education – are inseparably linked. Throughout your engagement with both theory and (teaching) practice, research-based and applied aspects play a key role, preparing you for a variety of multilingual professional fields at home and abroad.

WHAT THIS COURSE IS ABOUT
In an era of globalisation and increasing transnational migration, research and teaching in German as a Second Language / Foreign Language hold significant societal importance. Language skills are central to participation in social practices and discourses, vocational training, academic study, and employment. Due to (forced) migration, the targeted recruitment of international professionals, and the internationalisation of universities, teaching and learning German as a Second Language / Foreign Language are becoming ever more important. Around 15 million people worldwide learn German, particularly in schools and in the context of academic and professional pursuits.

Against this backdrop, the programme focuses on the professional development of students for teaching and researching German as a Second Language / Foreign Language – especially for work and specialised studies – in both institutional and non-institutional contexts within multilingual settings.

This degree offers a distinctive and contemporary focus within the field of German as a Second Language / Foreign Language. A key feature is the close integration of theory, empirical research, and practical application, reflecting the central research priorities of the department. You will gain comprehensive insights into the scientific foundations, findings, and methodological approaches of German as a Second Language / Foreign Language and learning research, with particular emphasis on professional and subject-specific communication and acquisition contexts.

Based on this foundation, you will learn to plan, organise, conduct, evaluate, and reflect on your own research and teaching activities. By selecting courses, project topics, and shaping your internship, you can set your own priorities and prepare specifically for particular professional fields.

A completed degree in one of the following fields is required: German as a Foreign and Second Language, German Studies (Germanistik), or a degree programme with significant linguistic components, or a combined degree including at least one of the aforementioned subjects.

At a minimum, the following competencies are expected:

• advanced knowledge of linguistics, including elements of German studies, and
• fundamental competencies in foreign/second language didactics or in research on foreign/second language acquisition.

Approx. 330 EUR per semester
The fee includes the Deutschlandticket, covering all regional public transport in Germany.

Rent: 400 EUR
Health insurance: approx. 160 EUR
Food: 350 EUR
Free time: min. 150 EUR
Semester fee: approx. 330 EUR per semester (55 EUR/month)
Miscellaneous: approx. 120 EUR

Total approx. 1,235 EUR

With the DAAD-funded project InRegioFIT, Paderborn University is pursuing the goal of providing international students with targeted support throughout their studies and during their transition into the labour market. The project focuses on the specific regional requirements and circumstances in order to optimally prepare international talent for entering the local labour market.

Students are eligible to apply for a room at the dormitories of the "Studierendenwerk Paderborn" (affiliated with Paderborn University). As an alternative, students can look for a room or an apartment on the private market. The typical rent is between 350 EUR and 450 EUR per month.