Degree programmes with additional legal requirements

Additional requirements apply to a number of degree programmes offered at the University of Münster. Although their quality is assured through its quality management system (QMS) and are modified if necessary in accordance with QMS procedures, additional rules and deviations sometimes apply due to special legal requirements. These are explained in the respective section of the QM portal for teaching and studies at the University of Münster (intranet pages).

Confession-based degree programmes

This refers to full- and partial degree programmes in theological study and Protestant, Catholic and Islamic religious education for students enrolled in teaching degrees programmes. Due to special legal requirements, some adjustments must be made to the QMS processes, such as ensuring participation of the Catholic and Protestant Churches. Similarly, the Confessional Advisory Council for Islamic Theology at the University of Münster is involved in the Islamic studies degree programmes.

Combination degree programmes and teaching certification

Combination degree programmes and partial degree programmes culminating in the conferral of teaching certification are subject to special legal requirements under the Teacher Degree Act (LABG) and the Admissions Regulations for Teaching Degree Programmes (LZV). The Ministry of Schools and Education is involved in the internal accreditation process, the terms of which are regulated by a cooperation agreement. Additionally, joint programmes exist between the University of Münster and the Münster University of Applied Sciences, as well as with the University of Fine Arts Münster, and are regulated by corresponding agreements.

Continuing education programmes

Continuing education programmes are targeted at individuals with prior training and aim to expand, deepen or update their knowledge, skills and qualifications in a specific area. Continuing education programmes are typically designed as work-study (or dual) programmes, allowing students to study while pursuing gainful employment.

International joint programmes

These programmes are offered in cooperation with one or more foreign universities and include a mandatory stay abroad at the partner university(-ies). Cooperation agreements between partner universities also stipulate how the partners are to jointly ensure the quality management of the joint degree programme.

National cooperative degree programmes

In national cooperative degree programmes, the University of Münster cooperates with another German university, so that the specific strengths and focuses of the programme complement each other and lead to a unique qualification profile. Quality management for these programmes is carried out in close coordination between the partner universities.

Regulated and dual degree programmes

These programmes are structurally and organisationally regulated by law due to the associated qualifications for their specific professions. Dual degree programmes combine an academic component at the University with a practical component at a non-university training facility, such as the bachelor's degree programme in midwifery studies. Regulated degree programmes apply their own approaches to quality assurance and development. The special requirements of dual degree programmes are likewise taken into account in the QMS.

For a detailed description of the process, visit the QM portal (internal)