The academic emphasis of the FH system is on subjects from the engineering and management sector, while universities cover all areas of scientific education and research. Only the latter have the right to award doctoral degrees.
The regular programmes of the German higher education system lead to one degree only, the Diplom which, if it is awarded by a Fachhochschule (FH), ranks internationally as a bachelor or professional master and, if it is awarded by a university or Technische Hochschule, ranks as a Master of Science degree.
The following graph compares FH and U/TU/TH and puts them in approximate relation to the British and American systems.
In addition to these study-related activities, most students take up some work during the Semesterferien. This applies particularly to international students who do not originate from EU countries, since they are only permitted to work during this period.
Lectures start generally on 15 April in the summer term and 15 October in the winter term. You can find the exact dates in the current lecture timetable or may also ask at the International Office. Applications for admission should be submitted no less than 6 months before the intended study period, therefore 15 July is the deadline for application at the International Office if you wish to start a study programme in October and 15 January if you wish to start in July. (Most of the study programmes begin in October anyway.)
The following graph shows the structure of the academic year at German universities.
