Master studies
The master’s programme usually lasts four semesters and builds on a related bachelor’s degree. In this phase, students consolidate their academic knowledge, develop the skills necessary to work independently and learn how to engage in professional discourse with colleagues. Master’s degree programmes lead to an academic degree (Master of Arts or Master of Science, depending on the subject) or a Master of Education obtained in Teacher Education and enable students to subsequently pursue a doctorate under certain conditions.
The following links provide information on all master's programmes offered by the three UA Ruhr universities:
International master's degree programmes
With around 60 international master's degree programmes, the three UA Ruhr universities offer a wide range of options for students from all over the world who have completed their bachelor’s. Most classes are taught in English, or in a few cases in other languages such as Dutch, French or Spanish. The following UA Ruhr webpage provides an overview of which programmes are offered at which university and in which language:
International master's degree programmes
The following links provide information on all master's programmes taught in English at the three universities of the UA Ruhr:
International degree programmes - RUB
International degree programmes - UDE
International degree programmes - TU Dortmund
Academic calendar and tuition fees
Academic calendar
The academic year in Germany is divided into two semesters: the winter semester (1 October to 31 March) and the summer semester (1 April to 30 September). Studies usually begin in the winter semester, but this may vary depending on the degree programme.
Further information about the academic calendar and dates of the UA Ruhr universities can be found at the following links:
Academic calendar - TU Dortmund
Tuition fees
Public universities in Germany do not usually charge tuition fees for bachelor's degree programmes. However, some master’s programmes do charge tuition, including certain master’s programmes at the UA Ruhr universities. Anyone interested in studying should therefore check whether tuition fees apply to their chosen programme.
In addition, all enrolled students in bachelor's and master's degree programmes at the UA Ruhr universities are required to pay a social contribution each semester. This mandatory fee is around 350 euros and is recalculated before each semester. In addition to contributions for student services (such as canteens and student housing) and university student unions, it also includes a mobility fee for the semester ticket.
You can find more information about the semester contributions of each of the UA Ruhr universities here: