How does the application process work?
A high school diploma or equivalent is required to begin a dual study program. Before starting their studies, interested students typically sign an employment contract with a company that offers a dual study position in cooperation with a university. After signing the contract, they apply to the university for the corresponding degree program. If you’re interested in a dual study program, you should therefore allow plenty of lead time.
How does a dual study program work?
Dual degree programs are popular because they combine theory and practice at both the university and the company. There are several possible formats—the most common distinctions are between the block model and the parallel model. In the block model, academic study and practical training are each divided into longer periods. For example, dual students spend three months at a university, college, or vocational academy, followed by three months at the company. In the parallel model, also known as the weekly model, dual students spend a few days at the company and a few at the university or, if applicable, at a vocational school.
What dual models are offered?
In a training-integrated degree program, academic study is combined with vocational training. At the end, students earn two degrees: a bachelor’s degree from the university and a state-recognized vocational qualification with a final exam administered by the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) or the Chamber of Crafts (HWK). In the practice-integrated program, dual students supplement their theoretical education at the university with practical phases at a company, which count toward their academic credits. At the end, they earn a university degree.
Employment Status of Dual Students: Apprentices, Students—or Both?
There is currently no universally applicable legal classification. In any case, from a labor law perspective, dual students in training-integrated degree programs are considered apprentices until they complete their dual vocational training. Participants in a practice-integrated degree program are employees as defined by the Works Constitution Act.
How long does a dual degree program typically last?
A dual degree program typically takes three to four years to complete a bachelor’s degree. In the training-integrated model, the vocational training is usually completed after two to three years. However, there are also five-year models in which the degree program is extended.
What should you look for in an employment contract?
The employment contract should specify what dual students and employers must observe—for example, when the dual study program begins and when it is expected to end, how many hours must be worked, the amount of compensation, how much vacation time is provided, and whether the company covers the administrative fees for the university. Dual students should also be aware of so-called repayment clauses, which employers often include in the employment contract. These are intended to specify the conditions under which the costs covered by the employer must be repaid. However, such clauses often turn out to be invalid.
Is the compensation for dual students standardized?
No, it is not. The terms and compensation for dual students vary from company to company. Since they are not apprentices under the Vocational Training Act, dual students do not fall under the scope of existing collective bargaining agreements. An exception is made for those with a training contract until they pass the IHK or HWK examination. In well-organized companies, dual students, together with their works councils, have often succeeded in ensuring that their earnings develop in line with those of apprentices.
This is how we create regulated working conditions for dual students
To ensure that all dual students are treated on an equal footing with apprentices, we are working to establish collective bargaining agreements specifically for them. We have already succeeded in doing so in certain sectors, such as the wood and plastics industries in Lower Saxony, and at companies like the automotive supplier Continental or IAV. Only in companies where collective bargaining agreements apply to dual students are their working conditions guaranteed.
How we plan to further improve the situation for dual students
We are advocating for all dual students to be included in the Vocational Training Act in the future. Currently, dual students are excluded from many protective provisions during their practical training phases at the workplace.
Who is the point of contact for dual students?
Dual students can receive support—including for personal issues—from the works council or the youth and apprentice representative at their company. Universities also have student advocacy groups that can assist with questions regarding higher education and student life. We are also represented at many universities through the union’s university information offices. Our central university information office also offers students a wide range of materials and useful tips on dual study programs. Learn more at: www.hochschulinformationsbuero.de.
