As the name suggests, studying two degree programs is just that: studying two degree programs at the same time. A “degree program” is defined as a “subject or combination of several subjects in conjunction with a study outcome defined in the degree program and examination regulations”. It is therefore not the same as the combination of two subjects with the aim of gaining one degree, rather, it is studying two degree programs in parallel, leading to two separate qualifications at the end.
To study for two degrees at FAU, you must first obtain permission from the Student Records Office. You have to file an application in which you state the reasons for your decision to study two degree programs. In addition, you must also demonstrate that you are capable of coping with studying both degree programs in accordance with regulations. As studying two degree programs does not entitle you to an extension of examination periods, you should check carefully whether the extra effort is really worth it. On the labor market, the double qualification barely compensates for poorer grades and a longer time spent studying.
Requirements for studying two degree programs
FAU’s Enrollment regulations stipulate two requirements for studying two degree programs that must be confirmed by the Deans of Studies responsible:
- Enrollment in two degree program with admission restrictions is only possible if prospective students have a particular professional, academic or artistic interest in studying both these degree programs at one time. Reference is made to the underlying provisions in the Bavarian Higher Education Act (Section 42 (2)(4) BayHSchG).
- Enrolling in two degree programs at one time is only possible if students are able to study both degree programs in accordance with regulations. In other words, both degree programs must be able to be studied without overlap and completed within the standard duration of study.
Alternatives to studying two degree programs
There are alternative ways to gain additional qualifications at university without studying two degree programs. The advantage of the following options for you: Before applying to study two degree programs, you could first of all try and see how you manage to cope with the double workload at university.
- If you would like to acquire additional qualifications during your time at university, the best place to contact when starting to explore the various options is either your Examinations Office or the Student Advice Center. Often, it is not necessary to study two degree programs to gain further qualifications.
- If you would like to acquire additional language skills, you can attend language courses alongside your regular degree program at the Language Centre. This is not comparable with studying for a degree in linguistics and literary studies, but there is no time pressure or deadlines.
- If you would like to obtain IT or accounting skills, you do not have to complete a whole degree in IT or economics. You can just attend individual courses that you are particularly interested in. Knowledge and achievements obtained in this way can even be accredited later if you do decide to study two degrees programs at one time after all or if you decide to complete a second degree after finishing your first one.
Double enrollment at two universities
Approval is also required if you intend to enroll at two universities. In this case, the Student Records Offices at both universities are responsible. Again, FAU’s Enrollment regulations stipulate the requirements:
- You may enroll at more than one university if this is regulated in the degree program and examination regulations and the different universities cover different aspects of the degree program.
You are not permitted to be enrolled at several universities for the same degree program.
Zweithörer/Nebenhörer
The option of attending classes outside your regular degree program as a “Zweithörer” or “Nebenhörer” is not available at Bavarian universities.
Contact
The Student Records Office is responsible for processing applications.