Vocational Training vs Studying
After finishing school, many people are faced with the question: vocational training or university? Both paths offer good career prospects and have different requirements and advantages.
In Germany, school leavers can choose between studying at a university or higher education college, pursuing vocational training in a company, or attending a vocational school.
Whether vocational training or a degree course is more suitable depends on individual interests and strengths, career goals and personal circumstances. The FrankfurtRheinMain region offers a wide range of opportunities for both paths. Numerous small and medium-sized enterprises offer training and are looking for motivated trainees, and many universities offer a wide range of courses.
The main differences between studying and vocational training are explained below.
Theory vs Practice
Company-based training combines theoretical learning at vocational school with practical work in the company. Learning is structured and application-oriented, taking place in direct contact with the future professional field.
In school-based training, lessons mainly take place at a vocational school. Practical phases take the form of internships in companies or institutions.
Studying at a university or technical college is more theory-oriented. It teaches scientific principles, promotes analytical thinking and requires a high degree of self-organisation.
In a dual study programme, university studies are combined with longer practical phases in a company. It is, so to speak, a mixture of study and training.
Admission Requirements
Vocational Training: The requirements depend on the desired profession. For many training programmes, an intermediate school-leaving certificate (e.g., a secondary school certificate) is sufficient, while others require a higher qualification. Companies decide for themselves who they hire.
Studies: A university entrance qualification, i.e. Abitur or Fachabitur, is required. It must be checked in advance whether the foreign school-leaving certificate is recognised in Germany. Additional admission criteria (e.g. numerus clausus) apply to certain subjects such as medicine or psychology.
Duration
Vocational Training: vocational training usually lasts two to three and a half years.
Degree programme: A bachelor's degree programme usually lasts three to four years, followed by a master's degree programme lasting one to two years.
Costs
- Vocational Training: There are no costs for in-company training. Trainees receive a monthly allowance from the company. However, fees may apply for school-based training at private institutions.
- Studying: There are no general tuition fees at state universities in Germany. However, a semester fee (€270 to €370) is payable per semester, which includes, for example, the semester ticket. Private universities often charge higher semester fees.
Salary
- Vocational Training: During their in-company training, trainees receive a monthly salary that increases each year. The amount varies depending on the industry and company. After completing their training, trainees can immediately start their careers, often even at the company where they trained. No monthly salary is paid during school-based training, but funding opportunities are available.
- University studies: No salary is paid during university studies. Many students work part-time or receive scholarships or government funding (e.g. BAföG). After graduation, higher starting salaries often await, especially in scientific or technical positions.
Career Prospects
Vocational Training: Many companies hire their trainees immediately after they complete their training. Skilled workers are in high demand in some sectors, such as skilled trades and nursing. After completing their training, trainees also have the option to continue their education or begin a degree programme.
University studies: A university degree qualifies graduates for academic professions, positions with management responsibility or careers in research and development. For some professions, such as medicine, a university degree is mandatory.