Which type of German postgraduate course suits me: consecutive or non-consecutive, and how do they differ?
A consecutive postgraduate course in Germany continues the field of your bachelor's degree, for example a Master's in Technology after a Bachelor's in Technology. A non-consecutive course does not depend on your bachelor's field and often asks for proof of professional employment. Check each program's rules.
Germany has mainly two types of postgraduate courses, consecutive and non-consecutive. The main difference is how closely the course relates to your bachelor's degree.
Consecutive vs Non-Consecutive
| Point | Consecutive course | Non-consecutive course |
|---|---|---|
| Link to bachelor's | Extends your education in the same field | Does not depend on your bachelor's degree |
| Focus | Sharpens the knowledge gained in your bachelor's | Can be an entirely different domain of study |
| Typical example | Bachelor's in Technology, then Master's in Technology | Bachelor of Arts, then a different postgraduate field |
| Extra requirement | Not mentioned | Often asks for proof of professional employment |
What This Means for You
If you want to deepen your own field, a consecutive course is the natural route. If you want to change direction, a non-consecutive course may fit, but such programs often demand proof of employment. For example, a student with a Bachelor of Arts may need at least one year of employment to join a non-consecutive program, and requirements vary by university.
My Advice
Decide first whether you are deepening or switching your field, then shortlist programs that match. Read the admission page of each program for work experience rules, because these differ and may change.
Looking for a specific course in Germany?
We will find the universities that offer it, and whether you will get in.
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