Ravensburg University of Cooperative Education

About University

About Ravensburg University of Cooperative Education, Germany
 

Overview

DHBW Ravensburg, like other DHBW locations, offers a distinct approach to higher education:

• Dual Education Model: Students alternate between academic learning on the university campus and practical training at a partner company. This means they spend part of the semester at the university and part working in the industry, which provides them with a strong practical background along with their theoretical studies.

• Bachelor’s Degrees: The university primarily offers Bachelor’s degrees across various fields including Business, Engineering, Social Work, and Health Care. Each course is designed to integrate academic studies with practical experience.

• Study Locations: DHBW Ravensburg has its main campus in Ravensburg and another significant location in Friedrichshafen, focusing more on technical and engineering courses due to its proximity to major engineering companies.

Key Features

• Strong Industry Partnerships: One of the hallmarks of the DHBW system is its collaboration with over 9,000 companies and social institutions. These partnerships not only provide students with employment opportunities during their studies but also a high chance of a job offer upon graduation.

• International Orientation: The university encourages international exchanges and has numerous partnerships with universities worldwide, allowing students to gain international experience during their studies.

• No Tuition Fees: As with most public universities in Germany, students at DHBW Ravensburg do not pay tuition fees. They often receive a salary or stipend from their partner companies during the practical phases of their education.

Academic Programs

DHBW Ravensburg offers a wide range of Bachelor’s programs tailored to the needs of its partner industries. Some of the popular fields include:

• Business Administration: With specializations in Banking, Insurance, Industry, Trade, and Services.

• Engineering: Offering courses like Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Industrial Engineering.

• Social Work: Specializations in areas such as Clinical Social Work, Social Services for Children and Youth, and Inclusion and Education.

Campus Life and Student Activities

• Student Life: The campus life at DHBW Ravensburg is dynamic, with various student organizations and clubs that include sports teams, cultural groups, and academic societies. These groups provide a balanced and enriching college experience.

• Location Benefits: Ravensburg and Friedrichshafen are picturesque towns with rich histories and vibrant local cultures. The area offers a range of recreational activities from hiking and biking in the beautiful surrounding countryside to cultural festivals and events.

Masters in Architecture in Germany

Course Programs at Ravensburg University of Cooperative Education, Germany
 

Faculty of Business

1. Business Administration

   • Specializations: Banking, Industry, Service Management, Insurance, Commerce, Health Care Management

   • Duration: 3 years

   • Degree: Bachelor of Arts

2. International Business

   • Specializations: International Management, Global Trade

   • Duration: 3 years

   • Degree: Bachelor of Arts

   • Note: Includes semesters abroad and courses in foreign languages.

Faculty of Engineering

1. Mechanical Engineering

   • Specializations: Automotive Engineering, Mechanical Design Engineering

   • Duration: 3 years

   • Degree: Bachelor of Engineering

2. Electrical Engineering

   • Specializations: Automation Technology, Electronics, Energy Systems

   • Duration: 3 years

   • Degree: Bachelor of Engineering

3. Industrial Engineering

   • Specializations: Project Management, Production and Operations, Logistics

   • Duration: 3 years

   • Degree: Bachelor of Engineering

Faculty of Social Work and Health

1. Social Work

   • Areas: Youth and Social Services, Health and Care, Inclusion and Education

   • Duration: 3 years

   • Degree: Bachelor of Arts

2. Health Care Management

   • Focus: Hospital Management, Health Insurance Management

   • Duration: 3 years

   • Degree: Bachelor of Arts

Universities in Germany

Bachelors Course Programs at Ravensburg University of Cooperative Education, Germany
 

Study in Germany

Masters Course Programs at Ravensburg University of Cooperative Education, Germany
 

MDS (Master of Dental Surgery) in Germany

PhD/Doctorate Course Programs at Ravensburg University of Cooperative Education, Germany
 

Ravensburg University of Cooperative Education, Germany for International Students
 

Educational Model

• Dual-Study System: Students alternate between attending classes at the university and working at a partner company. This not only enhances learning by applying academic concepts in real-world settings but also provides a built-in network and potential career paths after graduation.

• Bachelor’s Degrees: The university focuses primarily on Bachelor’s programs across various fields like Business, Engineering, and Social Work.

Admission Requirements

• Partnership with a Company: To enroll, international students must first secure a training contract with one of DHBW’s partner companies. This is often the most challenging part of the process, as it requires students to apply directly to companies which then sponsor their studies.

• Academic Records: Students need to have relevant academic qualifications that are recognized in Germany (e.g., high school diploma equivalent to the German Abitur).

• Language Proficiency: Depending on the program, proficiency in German (and sometimes English) is required. Programs are typically taught in German, necessitating a level of proficiency usually validated through tests like TestDaF or DSH.

Admission Process of Ravensburg University of Cooperative Education, Germany
 

Step 1: Understanding the Dual Study Model

First, it's crucial to understand that your admission at DHBW Ravensburg depends not only on academic qualifications but also on securing a contract with a partner company. This is because the model integrates classroom learning with on-the-job training.

Step 2: Finding a Partner Company

• Research Available Partners: DHBW Ravensburg collaborates with numerous companies across various industries. Prospective students should explore the DHBW website for a list of partner companies and available positions.

• Application to Companies: You need to apply directly to these companies, which involves submitting your resume, cover letter, and sometimes additional documents or completing specific tasks set by the company.

• Interview Process: If your application is successful, you'll likely undergo an interview process organized by the company.

Step 3: Formal Application to the University

Once you secure a training contract with a partner company:

• Contract Submission: The company typically helps with the formalities of enrolling at the university, including submission of the contract as part of your application.

• Academic Records: You will need to submit your academic transcripts and a high school diploma equivalent to the German Abitur.

• Language Proficiency: Since most programs are taught in German, proof of language proficiency (such as TestDaF or DSH) is required. Some programs may also require English proficiency.

Step 4: Completing Enrollment

• Confirmation of Admission: After the university reviews the contractual agreement with the partner company and your academic eligibility, you will receive a confirmation of admission.

• Enrollment Paperwork: Complete any remaining administrative tasks, such as registering for classes and obtaining a student ID.

Step 5: Preparing for Arrival

• Visa Application: International students from outside the EU will need to apply for a student visa. This requires the admission letter from DHBW Ravensburg, proof of financial resources, health insurance, and your training contract.

• Accommodation: Although the university does not provide on-campus housing, the International Office can assist in finding suitable accommodation.

Step 6: Orientation and Start of Classes

• Orientation Program: DHBW Ravensburg offers orientation sessions to help new students acclimate to the university and the dual study model. This is especially important for international students to understand the academic and work phases.

• Integration into the Partner Company: You will start working according to the schedule agreed upon in your training contract, which typically alternates with your academic terms at DHBW Ravensburg.

Intake and Eligibility of Ravensburg University of Cooperative Education, Germany
 

Intake Periods

DHBW Ravensburg generally has one major intake period:

• Fall Intake: Most programs start in the fall, around October. This aligns with the traditional academic calendar in Germany and coincides with the start of the fiscal year for many companies, which facilitates the integration of new trainees.

Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility for admission to DHBW Ravensburg is twofold, involving both academic qualifications and securing a training placement with a partner company:

1. Educational Qualifications

   • High School Diploma: Applicants must have a secondary education qualification equivalent to the German Abitur. This qualification should prepare the student for university-level education.

   • Language Proficiency: Since most courses are taught in German, proficiency in German is crucial. Typically, this means passing a recognized language test such as TestDaF, DSH, or an equivalent examination. Some programs might also require English proficiency, which could be demonstrated with TOEFL or IELTS scores.

2. Professional Training Contract

   • Securing a Position: Students must apply for and secure a training contract with one of DHBW’s partner companies. This is a crucial step and can be the most challenging part of the application process. The contract ensures that the student will have a place for the practical phases of their studies.

   • Industry Relevance: The training placement must be relevant to the chosen field of study. For example, a student in a mechanical engineering program should have a placement with an engineering firm.

Scholarship Available at Ravensburg University of Cooperative Education, Germany
 

Ravensburg University of Cooperative Education, Germany Campus & Accommodation Facilities
 

Students Life at Ravensburg University of Cooperative Education, Germany
 

Academic and Professional Integration

• Cooperative Education Model: Students alternate between classroom learning on campus and hands-on experience in the workplace. This model not only enhances learning but also builds professional networks and increases employability.

• Industry Exposure: Direct involvement with industry partners provides students with early insights into professional practices and industry standards, giving them a competitive edge.

Campus Life

• Facilities: The campus is equipped with modern facilities that support both academic and practical learning, including well-equipped classrooms, laboratories, and libraries.

• Small Community: As a cooperative education university, Ravensburg tends to have a close-knit student community, which fosters strong relationships among students, faculty, and staff.

Extracurricular Activities

• Clubs and Organizations: Students are encouraged to engage in various extracurricular activities. These can range from sports teams to cultural clubs and other student-led organizations, offering opportunities to develop new skills and interests outside of academic and professional commitments.

• Events and Workshops: The university and its partners often organize workshops, seminars, and events that focus on personal development, industry-specific skills, and networking opportunities.

Support Services

• Career Services: Dedicated support for career planning, including resume writing workshops, interview preparation sessions, and job placement services. The cooperative education model naturally integrates career development into the curriculum.

• Academic Advising: Advisors are available to help students navigate their academic and professional paths, ensuring that they meet both their educational and career goals.

• International Student Support: For international students, the university offers additional support, which might include help with accommodation, visa issues, and integration into the local culture.

Social Integration

• Cultural Integration Activities: Especially for international students, the university may offer language courses, cultural orientation programs, and social events to help students acclimate to life in Germany.

• Community Engagement: Students are often encouraged to participate in local community events and activities, which can enhance their social experience and help them build a broader network.

Living in Ravensburg

• Location Benefits: Ravensburg is known for its medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene, offering a high quality of life. The city's relatively small size allows for easy navigation and a strong community feel.

• Housing: While the university may not offer on-campus housing, it assists in finding accommodation and advises on the best places to live as a student.

Learning Environment

• Practical Learning: The dual education system means that students often work on real-world projects both in their coursework and during their industry placements, enhancing the practical application of their studies.

Placements in Ravensburg University of Cooperative Education, Germany
 

Structure of Placements

1. Integrated Curriculum: Students alternate between academic periods at the university and practical phases within partner companies. This structure allows students to apply the theoretical knowledge they gain in real-world settings almost immediately.

2. Long-Term Partnerships: The university has established long-term partnerships with a wide range of companies, from local businesses to large international corporations across various industries. These partnerships are designed to provide students with valuable industry experience and insights into their future careers.

3. Duration and Frequency: Depending on the study program, students typically spend about half of their study time working directly in the industry. These placements can last from a few weeks to several months at a time throughout the degree program.

Benefits of Placements

1. Professional Experience: Students graduate with significant work experience, which enhances their CVs and makes them highly competitive in the job market.

2. Skill Development: During placements, students develop not only specific technical skills relevant to their field but also soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving in a professional context.

3. Financial Benefits: Most placements are paid, providing students with an income during their studies. This financial support can be crucial in helping manage living costs and tuition fees.

4. Networking Opportunities: Working within companies gives students numerous opportunities to build professional networks, which can be essential for career development post-graduation.

5. Potential Job Offers: It is common for students to receive job offers from their placement companies upon graduation if their performance during the placement phases is outstanding.

Support for Placement Success

1. Preparation Programs: Ravensburg University offers preparatory seminars and workshops to equip students with the necessary skills to excel during their placements. These might include resume writing, interview preparation, and professional conduct.

2. Ongoing Support: The university maintains close contact with both students and partner companies during placements to ensure that both parties are satisfied and that the educational goals are being met.

3. Feedback and Assessment: Placements are closely monitored through regular feedback sessions and assessments, which contribute to the student’s final grade and degree qualification.

Challenges and Considerations

1. Adaptability: Students need to be adaptable and manage transitions between academic study and professional work environments effectively.

2. Balancing Act: Managing coursework alongside professional responsibilities requires good time management and organizational skills.

Acceptance Rate of Ravensburg University of Cooperative Education, Germany
 

Factors Influencing Admission at Ravensburg University of Cooperative Education:

1. Program-Specific Requirements: Admissions are often dependent on the specific requirements of each program, including prior academic achievements, relevant skills, and sometimes work experience. Each program may have different criteria based on the academic and professional nature of the field.

2. Dual Education Model: The cooperative education model involves partnerships with businesses and industries, which means that admissions might also be influenced by the availability of placement opportunities with partner companies. This unique aspect can affect how many students can be admitted into specific programs, as each student needs a corporate placement to fulfill the curriculum requirements.

3. Application Quality: Unlike more traditional universities where acceptance rates might reflect competition based on numerical scores alone, at Ravensburg University, the quality of your application—including how well you match with the potential placement opportunities and your preparedness for the cooperative education model—plays a significant role.

4. Interviews: For many cooperative education programs, the admission process includes interviews, which can significantly influence admission decisions. These interviews assess not only the academic qualifications of the candidates but also their soft skills and suitability for practical work environments.

Campus Location of Ravensburg University of Cooperative Education, Germany
 

Ravensburg and Friedrichshafen Campus Details:

1. Ravensburg Campus:

   • Location: This campus is located in the historic town of Ravensburg, which is known for its medieval towers and gates.

   • Faculties and Programs: It primarily hosts programs related to business, social work, and health care. This campus is well-suited for students interested in these fields, offering a blend of theoretical education and practical training through its cooperative education model.

   • Facilities: The Ravensburg campus offers modern classrooms, a library, and several labs and workshops designed to facilitate a practical learning environment.

2. Friedrichshafen Campus:

   • Location: Situated in Friedrichshafen on the northern shore of Lake Constance, this campus is in a city famous for its aviation history (home to the Zeppelin Museum).

   • Faculties and Programs: This campus focuses more on engineering and technology programs, reflecting the industrial character of the region, which is home to many high-tech and automotive companies.

   • Facilities: Equipped with advanced laboratories, workshops, and collaborative spaces that support engineering and technology studies.

Accessibility and Transportation:

Both campuses are well-connected by public transportation. Friedrichshafen, being a smaller city, offers easy access to both the university and other amenities by bike or on foot. Ravensburg, with its charming old town, provides a scenic and vibrant student life atmosphere. Both locations offer excellent opportunities for leisure and outdoor activities given their proximity to Lake Constance and the Alps.