Chemistry Education: Information for Prospective Students

Information for Prospective Students

Chemistry offers an exciting perspective on the world—inquisitive, fascinating, and multifaceted. It is everywhere in nature, in food, in cosmetics, and in technology.

Those who understand chemistry perceive the world differently—and that’s exactly what you’ll teach in the classroom later on. In the chemistry teacher education program, you’ll learn how to convey scientific concepts in an engaging, understandable, and creative way.

Six Good Reasons to Study Chemistry Education in Siegen

1. Comprehensive training in subject-specific pedagogy and practical skills for experienced chemistry teachers

2. Small learning groups and individualized support

3. Close contact between students in different semesters

4. Authentic learning experiences with students in our student labs

5. Advanced Module “Innovations in Chemistry Education Research”—Applying Current Developments in a Practical Context

6. Strong connections with chemistry teachers in the region

My degree program in chemistry education

After just the first semester, it was clear to me: I want to stay here!

Back in high school, I’d already taken chemistry as an advanced course and was impressed. But that wasn’t enough for me. I simply wanted to know even more—and at the same time, I wanted to inspire others with what fascinates me so much: the world of chemistry.

At the University of Siegen, as a student studying to become a chemistry teacher, you’re one of only a few, but that’s exactly what helped me so much: through study groups, getting together after a stressful day in the lab, or even just having lunch together in the cafeteria—you never felt alone. The connection with the department’s teaching methods program was also always great—you weren’t just a number, but you really felt heard and could actively help shape the program.

If I had to start over, I’d choose the University of Siegen again—despite the steep hill!

Chemistry Teacher Education at the University of Siegen—I’d do it again in a heartbeat

My chemistry teacher education program at the University of Siegen prepared me perfectly for my teaching internship. I’ve been teaching since November 2025, and every day I realize just how valuable and helpful the experiences I gained during my studies are—especially when it comes to conducting experiments.

I found the practical subject-specific teaching courses and the thorough pedagogical training particularly helpful; they made my transition into everyday school life much easier. I also always found the dedicated support from the faculty—especially in chemistry education—to be a great help; they were always there to offer advice, practical tips, and encouragement.

I can recommend the chemistry teacher education program at the University of Siegen to anyone who loves chemistry and wants to pass on their knowledge to the next generation in a creative, practical, and enjoyable way!

Siegen – The Chemistry Is Just Right Here

Even back in high school, I tutored others and realized how much I enjoy sharing knowledge and helping others learn. To combine this with my passion for chemistry, I decided to pursue a degree in chemistry education at the University of Siegen.

What particularly appealed to me was the practical focus: We didn’t just learn about traditional lab experiments, but also conducted modern, student-centered experiments that could even be analyzed using a cell phone. I benefit from exactly these kinds of ideas in my own teaching today.

Our small study group also played an important role in my chemistry studies. Genuine friendships developed through studying together and lab sessions, and they’ve lasted to this day. I now teach chemistry at a high school and am already looking forward to returning to the University of Siegen with my students as part of the Science Forum.

A Practical Education—A Solid Start to the Teaching Internship

I always felt right at home in the Chemistry Tower at the University of Siegen. Because the program was small, we all knew each other, worked together, and supported one another—and whenever things got stressful, we could take a moment to catch our breath while looking out over Siegen.

I have particularly fond memories of the chemistry pedagogy course. There, I didn’t just learn chemistry—I learned how to teach it to my future students. We gained a lot of valuable insights along the way—which made some of my fellow student teachers genuinely envious. From numerous school experiments to a wide variety of teaching concepts, we built up a collection that I still draw on from time to time in my daily teaching today.

Your Degree Program at a Glance

The bachelor’s degree program in chemistry education offers a solid foundation in the subject matter during the first semesters, followed by training in subject-specific teaching methods in the later semesters. The standard duration of the bachelor’s phase is six semesters. The program can only be started in a winter semester, and the language of instruction is German.

For the Master of Education, you’ll need to plan for four additional semesters.

You are welcome to write your Bachelor’s and/or Master’s thesis with us in the Department of Chemistry Education. Simply contact Prof. Dr. Martin Gröger, Dr. Volker Hofheinz, or Dr. Daniela Krischer.

Consulting and Contact

Academic Advising for High School and Comprehensive School Teacher Education / Vocational High School

Dr. Volker Hofheinz

hofheinz@chemie.uni-siegen.de

Academic Advising for Teacher Education Programs in Elementary, Middle, High School, and Comprehensive Schools

Dr. Daniela Krischer

krischer@chemie.uni-siegen.de

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