Training and studies in one
The so-called “duales Studium” has become one of the most successful and recognised qualification paths over the past few years. The close intertwining of theory and practice offers companies the chance to train their staff according to their business’ demands and ensure a permanent stream of highly-qualified skilled professionals and leaders.
Students can make the most of their switch between a company and their university or vocational college to put their theoretical knowledge into practice. These dual degree programmes require a close partnership between the companies and universities or vocational colleges.
This cooperation encourages a transfer of knowledge and technology between the economy and education providers.
Studies combined with employment
A duales Studium is generally understood to be a combination of studies at a university or vocational college (state-run or state-recognised) with vocational training or employment.
Three partners cooperate within a duales Studium:
- Student
- Company
- University / vocational college
All of these partners are in contact with one another. Companies conclude a training agreement or employment contract with students and a cooperation agreement with universities and vocational colleges. Students switch between their studies and professional practice, i.e. between their university or vocational college and the company. Universities and vocational colleges are also contractually bound to the other two parties.
The particular advantage of the duales Studium
Theory and practice are closely linked. Students can put their theoretical knowledge directly into practice. This is how companies are able to recruit employees who are optimally trained for their professional requirements. The close intertwining of theory and practice offers students a wide range of advantages, as the duales Studium is:
- Flexible: Theory can immediately be put into practice.
- Practical: Employees don’t get a shock when making the transition to working life.
- Quick: It’s much quicker to combine theory and practice than to do one after the other.
- Worthwhile: Study fees are mostly paid by companies, and trainees receive an allowance.
- Sustainable: Once trainees have completed their course, they usually get taken on by their company.