Die wichtigsten Fragen zu Propädeutika

Ende April hat unsere Expertin Winnie Rosatis, Leiterin des Akademischen Auslandsamtes der Hochschule Fulda, im Chat die wichtigsten Fragen zu Propädeutika in Deutschland beantwortet:

Are there "Propädeutika" for all degree courses?
That depends on the university or the Studienkolleg which is organizing the program, but normally there are only special programs. You should check this with the university, because the variety in the field of Propädeutika is much bigger than those of the  Studienkollegs.

When do I have to enroll for the courses? I want to begin studying in Germany in summer 2010.
The summer term 2010 has already started, but applications for the winter semester are still possible in some universities, because the majority of these programs start in the winter term. So the summer term is used for preparation. Apply as soon as possible because often Visa regulations take very long. In general you should apply for a program four months in advance.

How can I prepare myself for such a course?
First of all you should have a look at the university's website to get an overview of all the introductory courses offered. In terms of German language skills you don't need to worry because Propädeutika are meant to improve your language proficiency. In most cases language classes are a fixed part of a Propädeutikum.

Why should I tak a Propädeutikum? It is in the bachelors as well.
An introductory course makes sense because usually there are big differences in knowledge, for example in math, which makes it difficult for professors to teach students from different countries. So the courses offer the possibility to get the same level of knowledge. Another aspect is that you get familiar with the German culture and you can improve your language skills and eventually can successfully start your future studies in Germany. You also get acquainted with the particular methods of teaching and learning in Germany, which in a number of ways are very different to the methods in other countries and also different from what the prospective student has experienced during his time at school.

What are typical contents of a Propädeutikum besides the language classes?
Most of the introductory courses have a mandatory part “Introductions to scientific methods in Germany” as well as intercultural trainings, so the students will be prepared to understand the German system of higher education. The methods of learning are different from culture to culture and the students will have to get used to the German style of teaching which, for example, puts much emphasis on student participation.