Study Philosophy in Germany
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Erudera's Complete Guide to Studying Philosophy in Germany
Studying Philosophy in Germany would be a perfect choice for students who want to enhance their questioning, critical thinking, rationalization, as well as research skills. Germany is renowned for its research and innovation, and its universities rank among the top globally. Generally, students who decide to pursue a Philosophy degree tend to love what they study. Considering some of the central figures of Philosophy, such as Hegel or Nietzsche, took their first steps in Germany, this nation makes an ideal destination for aspiring Philosophy majors. But there are plenty of other reasons why Germany is a great destination to study Philosophy.
Here’s everything you need to know about studying philosophy in Germany:
Reasons to Study Philosophy in Germany
Germany is the Land of Poets and Thinkers
Germany has contributed to philosophy, music, literature, and free thought - quite a lot. In fact, it is so often referred to as the “land of poets and thinkers.” Now, even the idea of studying Philosophy in the “land of poets and thinkers” is pretty exciting. Centuries ago, the rulers of Germany were thought to support great minds. German philosophy has been diverse and played a major role in philosophy as a whole. From Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, Immanuel Kant, Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel, Arthur Schopenhauer, Karl Marx to Friedrich Nietzsche, Martin Heidegger and Ludwig Wittgenstein; Germany has been a central part of philosophy for centuries.
Germany Tends to Inspire
Simply being a Philosophy student in Germany will be a great source of inspiration. Apart from the fact that Germany has contributed an enormous amount to philosophy, this nation has also been an outstanding muse to many significant authors throughout history. Germany’s outdoors is a sight to behold, with its castles, landscapes, high mountains, old towns, and cobblestone streets. Besides, Germany has a rich history and a fascinating culture, and it is actually one of the top destinations for travelers worldwide. Studying Philosophy in Germany will place you right in the middle of an astonishing source of inspiration and beauty.
Germany is Affordable and Therefore a Great Experience
Finances are an essential part of studying abroad, making studying Philosophy in Germany a great experience. Forget the role Germany played in Philosophy and think about the role it will play in your education. Germany is affordable, and most of its public universities charge low or no tuition fees at all. Its affordability combined with its academic excellence and reputation in Philosophy creates a country of opportunities. Almost 400,000 international students are currently studying in Germany across all degree programs.
German Universities Offer Excellent Philosophy Programs
German universities rank highly across numerous international university ranking sites. The degree you will obtain in Germany will be valued by employers worldwide. Universities in Germany offer countless excellent and comprehensive Philosophy programs (some of them in English). Some Philosophy programs in Germany are also interdisciplinary, often combined with fields of study like Economics and Politics. Regardless of what your area of interest is, you will find your preferred Philosophy program in Germany.
Top Universities to Study Philosophy in Germany
Some of the best universities to study Philosophy in Germany are:
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin
- Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
- Goethe-University Frankfurt am Main
- Freie Universitaet Berlin
- Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen
Top Philosophy Master’s Programs in Germany
Some Philosophy master’s programs you can pursue in Germany include:
- Master’s Program in Philosophy
- Master’s Program in ‘Mind and Brain’ (M.Sc./M.A.)
- Master’s Program in Ancient Philosophy
- Master’s Program in Theoretical Philosophy
- Master’s Program in Philosophy of Religion
- Master’s Program in Logic and Philosophy of Science
- Master’s Program in Philosophy, Politics, Economics
Requirements
The academic requirements to study Philosophy in Germany are:
- University entrance qualification, such as Abitur (or equivalent).
- For students whose university entrance qualification is not recognized in Germany:
- University entrance qualification test (Feststellungsprüfung) or one-year preparatory course (Studienkolleg).
- Proof of German language proficiency (for German-taught programs).
- Proof of English language proficiency (for English-taught programs).
- Preliminary Examination by Uni-Assist (for international students).
The academic requirements to study a Master’s program in Philosophy in Germany are:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy or a related subject.
- Proof of German or English language proficiency (depending on the university-specific requirements).
Keep in mind: International students from non-EU/EEA countries must also be in possession of a student visa to study in Germany. The student visa requirements usually include proof of sufficient funds, health insurance, and university admission, to name a few.
Application Process
Generally, German universities have their own online application portals through which students can submit their applications. In most cases, international students have to get their documents verified by Uni-Assist (centralized admissions portal for international students) first and then submit their application to the university directly.
If you want to study Philosophy in Germany, you should apply through one of the following ways:
- Directly to the university
- Through the university’s International Office
- Through Uni-Assist
The application process to study Philosophy in Germany generally includes paying an application fee, submitting documents (academic transcripts and certificates, identification documents, CV/motivation letter, etc.), and waiting for a response from the university.
Degree Duration: How Long Does It Take to Study Philosophy in Germany?
Generally, the standard length of study for bachelor’s programs in Philosophy in Germany is six semesters (or three academic years). A bachelor’s in Philosophy in Germany gives students insight into the diversity of philosophical problems and helps students expand their subject-specific knowledge through scientific work. There are a variety of Master’s programs Philosophy graduates can undertake in Germany. These programs usually take four semesters (two academic years) of full-time study to complete.
Tuition Fees: How Much Does It Cost to Study Philosophy in Germany?
The affordability of university education is what attracts thousands of international students to pursue their degree in Germany. As a prospective Philosophy student wishing to study in Germany, you should consider the following information regarding costs and tuition fees:
- Most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees, only an administrative fee (approx. €250/$305 per semester).
- Public universities in the federal state of Baden-Württemberg charge tuition fees. Students are required to pay around €1,500/~$1,800 per semester.
- Private universities are self-funded and therefore charge tuition fees. Depending on the university, tuition fees at private universities in Germany can go up to €20,000/~$24,400 per year.
Philosophy Career Prospects in Germany
Although there is no clear-cut job description for Philosophy graduates, there is still a wide range of career paths available. Skills earned during your studies will be beneficial across numerous sectors. One of the main career paths for Philosophy graduates in Germany is finding employment as a philosophy and ethics teacher at school. But it is not the only option. Philosophy majors may also work in libraries, consulting and controlling in politics, the cultural sector, publishing, or even work towards becoming part of the academic staff at university through doctoral studies.
Germany has one of the strongest economies in the world, and it is known for its respectable salaries, so, whatever career path you choose, you are likely to earn a decent salary. Generally, a professor of Philosophy in Germany earns an average salary of €5,300/~$6,480 per month.
