German as a Foreign Language – online (MA) Marburg University

• Didactics of the German language, literature, and cultural reflection in learning
• Principles of teaching languages and learning languages, including methods and outcomes of recent research in the teaching and learning of German as a foreign language

The main disciplines are:

• Description of the German language (pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, forms of interaction)
• Description and application of teaching methods for the German language
• Description and application of cultural reflection in learning
• Description and application of empirical research methods regarding second language acquisition and learning

In the profile section, students can specialise by choosing an elective module. They can focus on evaluation, materials, and media, particularly in digitally supported learning environments, or further develop their skills in the didactics of German as a second language.

Students should complete at least two modules per semester.

For the first semester, the required modules are “Fundamentals of German as a Foreign Language” and “Grammar and Teaching Grammar". You may also begin the “Cultural Reflective Learning” module in the first semester, which you can complete in the second semester.

For the second semester, the required modules are "Didactics of Oral Communication and Pronunciation“ and ”Didactics of Written Communication and Vocabulary“.

In the third semester, students complete the module ”Empirical Teaching Research" as well as a required elective module of their choice.

The final module, consisting of the Master’s thesis and the oral exam, is scheduled for the fourth semester.

http://www.uni-marburg.de/ma-daf-weiterbildung

• Bachelor's degree
• at least one year's experience in teaching German as a foreign language

For detailed information regarding the application, see
http://www.uni-marburg.de/ma-daf-weiterbildung or
https://www.uni-marburg.de/de/fb09/igs/arbeitsgruppen/ag-daf/studium-zertifikatskurse/weiterbildungsmaster-daf-online/bewerbung.

For a sample test regarding the expected qualifications, see
https://www.uni-marburg.de/de/fb09/igs/arbeitsgruppen/ag-daf/studium-zertifikatskurse/weiterbildungsmaster-daf-online/bewerbung.

There is a semester fee, which includes the mandatory student union membership (required by state law) and a free travel pass for public transport in the state of Hesse and beyond, as well as access to subsidised accommodation and meals. In the summer semester of 2026, the semester fee amounted to approx. 406 EUR.
https://www.uni-marburg.de/en/studying/life-at-umr/finance

Within certain legal limits, job opportunities are available for international students. Fluent German is required for most jobs. Employment for international students must be approved by the foreigners' registration office. There are hardly any legal restrictions on taking academic assistant jobs at the university.

Further information on job opportunities and university career services: https://www.uni-marburg.de/en/studying/life-at-umr/work-1

Our Career Advisory Service supports students transitioning from their studies to professional life. Each semester, Marburg University offers a wide range of workshops and events on topics such as job applications, career planning, and entering the workforce, which are open to students from all faculties. In one-on-one counselling sessions, some in cooperation with the Employment Agency’s Career Team in Marburg, students receive advice regarding career orientation and career options in Germany. Our staff support students in integrating their strengths, interests, and values in order to actively shape rewarding career paths.