NARIC guide on Higher Education Systems in the European Union

As universities for applied studies and research, the Fachhochschulen with 134 out of a total of 294 higher education
institutions (1994), and around 400 000 out of a total of around 1.8 million students, represent a major section of the German
higher education system. They have the task of preparing students for professional activities on the basis of application-related
teaching, involving the practical application of scientific knowledge and methods or the ability to apply artistic skills. They
carry out research and development tasks in the framework of this education mandate.
Fachhochschulen are structured and organised in the same way as other higher education institutions. The courses offered by
Fachhochschulen are predominantly in the engineering sciences disciplines, in the economic sciences and in the social
sciences. The structure of the study programmes and the organisation of teaching and studies at the Fachhochschulen are
particularly oriented towards practical application and are tailored to the requirements of professional practice.
The requirements for employment as a professor are an academic degree, outstanding achievements in the application or
development of scientific knowledge and methods, as well as at least five years of
practical experience, of which at least three must have been outside
the academic sphere. A further prerequisite is outstanding ability to
do academic work, normally evidenced by a doctorate.
I.1.3. Teacher training colleges
Teacher training colleges (Pädagogische Hochschulen) have the task of training teachers for careers in primary schools,
Hauptschulen and special schools. In some cases, teachers are specifically trained for Realschulen or other secondary level I
school types. Some teacher training colleges also train graduates in education (Diplom-Pädagogen). The training of teachers
for Gymnasien and vocational schools, i.e. for careers in secondary level II institutions, takes place at universities. Many
teacher training colleges were integrated into the universities in the 1970s. They continue to exist as independent institutions
in Baden-Württemberg and Thuringia. Like universities, teacher training colleges have the right to confer doctoral degrees.
The appointment of professors at teacher training colleges is dependent on the same conditions as govern the appointment of
university professors. As a rule professors also have several years of teaching experience at schools.
Students at teacher training colleges conclude their (minimum) three-year courses of study with the first State examination.
The subsequent preparatory service is concluded with the second State examination. Only then can they be employed as
teachers in the relevant types of schools.
I.1.4. Colleges of art and music
Colleges of art and colleges of music offer training in the practice and study of fine art, design and the performing arts, or in
musical subjects.
I.2. Higher education studies
I.2.1. Access to higher education and admission procedures
Access to higher education