Studying while working: models, access, credit for prior learning

"Alongside work" is not a legal term; it describes study formats compatible with employment. The differences lie in place of learning, time structure and pace.

Not having the Abitur, Germany's general university entrance qualification, does not rule out study. In 2009 the Standing Conference of Education Ministers adopted a resolution on university access for vocationally qualified applicants, which the states implemented in their higher education acts. Simplified: holders of a master craftsman certificate and equivalent advanced vocational qualifications receive general university entrance; people with at least two years of vocational training and several years of work experience can be admitted to related subjects, possibly after an aptitude test or trial study period.

Exact requirements differ between states and universities. Anyone wishing to study without the Abitur should clarify early with the target university's study advice service which evidence is needed.

Work experience and training can shorten a degree. The states' higher education acts allow knowledge and skills acquired outside higher education to be credited if they are equivalent in content and level; usually there is a ceiling, often half of the credits.

The basis is a comparison of learning outcomes: what the module handbook lists as a module's learning outcomes must demonstrably have been achieved through the professional qualification. There is blanket credit, where a university generally recognises certain qualifications, and individual credit, where applicants evidence their competences with certificates, work samples or a portfolio. Well-documented, verifiable training records make this much easier.

One credit equals 25 to 30 hours of work. Studying 15 credits per semester part-time therefore means planning 375 to 450 hours — over six months about 15 to 17 hours a week. That is manageable alongside a full-time job but requires fixed study times and support from those around you.

Many employers support part-time study, for instance by covering costs or granting time off for exams. This often comes with a repayment clause if you leave shortly after graduating; such clauses are only valid within limits and should be read carefully.

Most German states have educational leave laws allowing paid time off for recognised training; whether a study module qualifies depends on state law. Study costs may be relevant for tax purposes as work-related expenses or special expenses. Details depend on the individual case and should be clarified with an advice service.

Anyone studying alongside work learns with limited energy. What helps is less discipline than good planning. Short, regular study sessions work better than rare marathons, because spaced learning demonstrably improves retention. Self-testing — answering questions rather than rereading text — is one of the most effective learning methods and fits well into breaks.

It also helps to link study and work: term papers and projects on questions from your own workplace are more motivating and bring the employer direct benefit. Where confidential data are involved, get the employer's approval.