Teaching Degree for Haupt-, Real-, Sekundar- and Gesamtschulen
The teacher education program at the University of Siegen consists of a six-semester bachelor’s degree followed by a four-semester master’s degree, regardless of the teaching specialization. From the outset, subject-specific studies are closely integrated with subject didactics and educational sciences, ensuring a comprehensive and practice-oriented approach to teacher preparation. For those preparing to teach at the Hauptschule, Realschule, Sekundarschule, or Gesamtschule level, the University of Siegen also offers an additional two-semester advanced master’s program in special education, qualifying graduates for both general and special education roles.
Bachelor:
Admission procedure:
Deadlines and admission restrictions for the individual subjects as well as information on application and enrollment procedures can be found on our
For candidates interested in specializing in Biology, the candidate must first apply for a seat in the program via the application procedure before enrolling.
For the teaching subjects Art, Music, and Physical Education, corresponding aptitude tests are held before the application and enrollment procedures.
Direct enrollment is possible for subjects with open admissions.
Application phase for the subject Biology:
2 June - 15 July 2025
Enrollment period:
16 July - 29 August 2025
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Start of studies
Winter semester -
Standard period of study
6 semesters -
Degree
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science, depending on combination of subjects -
Language of instruction
German, with possibility of English, French, or Spanish as teaching specialization
Master:
Transfer and application procedure:
The master's teaching degree programs are not admission-restricted. Information and deadlines for the transfer procedure (internal applicants) or the application procedure (external applicants) can be found on the website of the Center for Teacher Training and Educational Research:
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Start of studies
Summer and winter semester -
Standard period of study
4 semesters -
Degree
Master of Education -
Language of instruction
German, with English, French, or Spanish as potential teaching specializations
Post-Master’s Program in Special Education (optional)
At the University of Siegen, it is possible to acquire two fully accredited (double-qualifying) master's degrees:
- Teaching degree in elementary education or for teaching at Hauptschule, Realschule, Sekundarschule, and Gesamtschule
- Master of Education in Special Education.
This special course of studies builds on the standard 10-semester degree program and conveys a teaching degree in elementary and special education or a teacher degree for Hauptschule, Realschule, Sekundarschule, and Gesamtschule with integrated special education (6 semesters bachelor's degree and 4 semesters master's degree). As part of those programs, a certain portion of the coursework is dedicated to the field special education, including "Emotional/Behavioral Disorders" and "Learning Disabilities." The subsequent 2-semester master's degree "Teacher Education for Special Education" enables students to acquire the additional teaching qualification in special education with a focus on "Learning Disabilities" and "Emotional/Behavioral Disorders." One important goal of this degree course is the intensive preparation of prospective teachers for dealing with pupils with behavioral problems and learning disabilities in inclusive learning groups and at special schools.
Career prospects
The teacher education program at Siegen equips future educators with essential pedagogical and technical skills, preparing them to guide children and young people toward meaningful social engagement and career readiness. The program emphasizes both practical experience and theoretical foundations, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the multifaceted responsibilities of teaching as well as the option for continued academic advancement.
Student Voices: Insights into the Teacher Education program
I felt supported and guided at every step of the way.
My passion for supporting children and young people on their educational journeys inspired me to pursue a teaching career soon after graduation. I spent considerable time searching for the right combination of teaching subjects and special education, until I discovered the unique "Teaching with Integrated Special Needs Education" program at the University of Siegen.
This program offers a comprehensive degree in "Educational Sciences with Integrated Special Education" alongside two teaching subjects, leading to a teaching qualification for your chosen school type with a special needs education focus. But it’s worth mentioning that the curriculum is really designed from start to finish to prepare you for the needs of special education from day one after you graduate. There’s also the option to add on two more semesters to earn a second master’s degree in special educational support, specifically in learning and emotional and social development. With that advanced qualification, you can apply for positions in elementary, secondary, or comprehensive schools, or at institutions specializing in special education.
The welcoming atmosphere at the University of Siegen was a decisive factor in my choice. The city, campus, and class sizes made it easy to navigate. There was a real sense of community among students and faculty. Programs like the Lernwerkstatt and Oase offer valuable opportunities to connect with peers, get guidance, or earn the LehramtPLUS certificate through workshops and excursions. These resources help students feel supported and ease the transition into university life.
I would choose the University of Siegen again without hesitation, and I hope you will consider making Siegen your place of study as well.
- General higher education entrance qualification such as the Abitur, or
- under certain conditions, a subject-restricted higher education entrance qualification
(Please check with us in advance whether your qualification will be recognized), or - under certain conditions , a professional qualification
(Please contact us in advance to find out whether your professional qualification will be recognized), - a corresponding aptitude test must be taken by candidates in the subjects of music, art, and sport.
Why choose a teaching degree from the University of Siegen?
- Individual advising and support services
- Double qualification possible in special education
- Wide range of specializations
- Helpful learning workshops
- Low hurdles to admission
Program Structure
The teacher education program at the University of Siegen consists of a six-semester bachelor’s degree followed by a four-semester master’s degree, regardless of the teaching specialization. The degree program for elementary school teachers consists of the following elements:
- Educational sciences
- German for Students with an Immigration Background (DSSZ)
- Area of Study I: Language and literacy education
- Area of Study II: Math literacy
- Area of Study III or teaching subject
- In-depth study of one of the areas of study or the teaching subject
- Aptitude and orientation internship in the bachelor's degree program
- Professional internship in the bachelor's degree program
- Practical semester in the master's program
- Bachelor's thesis
- Master's thesis
