Cooperative university

You must have at least the advanced technical college certificate. In most cases, the subject-specific university entrance qualification is required, while some courses require secondary school completion and university qualification. Furthermore, an apprenticeship or work contract with a company that is part of the programme is required. Please note that the cooperative university may have their selection processes in place, regardless of the company's process.

From the beginning, theoretical and practical phases alternate approximately every three months. The theoretical phases intended to convey specialist knowledge required for the course of studies are followed by matched practice phases in the company. These are designed to use and reinforce the knowledge gained.

During the course, students complete homework (practical tasks, project work and study work) and take exams. The cooperative university determines the distribution of the exam performances which differ between the various programmes.

The student is remunerated for the entire course of studies. The individual programmes may take 6 or 7 terms and is completed with a Bachelor thesis.

You are required to pass with at least a "sufficient" grade every course in every year of study. If this result is not achieved, you may repeat the relevant examinations once. If the required minimum grade is still not achieved, you may submit to an oral exam in only one subject. Passing this oral exam, will give you at most a "sufficient" passing grade. Students not achieving this grade will be removed from the programme. This would also terminate the apprenticeship relationship with the company.

Testimony by Viola Seubold, mechanical engineering graduate, Cooperative University Glauchau

One of my main reasons to decide for a course of studies at the cooperative university is the combination of theory and practice. Due to the small student body, theoretical knowledge is quickly imparted. The close contact with other students and the fair compensation are also benefits.

During my second year, the university and KAESER made it possible for me to complete a practical term in the South of England. I was able to improve my knowledge of the English language and also getting to know the country and its people.

Although the course schedule is heavy and demands much independent work, I would again opt for this programme. I would recommend it not least because employment is basically secured after a successful completion.