Choosing the right degree course is an important decision in life. It not only influences your professional career, but also your personal development and satisfaction. However, with so many options available, the decision can seem overwhelming. In this article, we highlight the most important factors that play a role in the Choice of Study, provide helpful tips for making a decision and show how to make the most of your own strengths and interests to find the right course.
Choosing the right degree course can be a big challenge, especially with so many options available. To make this important decision easier, a structured approach is crucial. In this article, we offer a step-by-step guide to help you systematically identify your own interests, strengths and career goals and use them to select the right degree course. This will help you find out which study path suits you best and how you can effectively manage the process of Choice of Study.
Before deciding on a degree program, you should ask yourself the fundamental question: Do I want to study at all? A study program is a time-consuming and often theoretical apprenticeship that usually lasts several years. It is important to realize that there are other educational and career paths besides study, such as apprenticeships or dual study programs, which offer a more practical combination of work and learning. Consider whether you enjoy theoretical learning, whether you are pursuing long-term academic goals and whether a study program is the right way to achieve these goals.
The following overview shows the most important advantages and disadvantages of a study program at a glance, which can help you with your decision.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| In-depth theoretical knowledge in a specialist area | Long duration of study without financial security |
| Higher earning potential in many professions | Theory-heavy apprenticeship, often with little practical relevance |
| Broader career prospects and promotion opportunities | Higher time and learning effort |
| Often access to international networks and exchange programs | Uncertainty about career entry after study |
| Academic further education up to Master's and doctorate possible | Not a mandatory requirement in some industries |
There are a variety of subject areas that cover different interests and strengths. Each of the departments offers a variety of specializations and degree programs that cover different interests and career goals. Here are some of the majors in which degree programs are offered:
There is a wide variety of degree courses, which vary depending on the university and department. This is an overview of some of the most common degree programs, sorted by department. Each of these courses offers specialization options and allows you to work in different industries. The decision depends on your interests, strengths and career goals.
| Department | Specific subjects | |||||||
| Humanities and Social Sciences | Philosophy | History | Psychology | Sociology | Cultural Studies | Political Science | Ethnology | Religious Studies |
| Natural Sciences | Biology | Chemistry | Physics | Mathematics | Earth Sciences | Astronomy | Environmental Science | |
| Engineering | Mechanical Engineering | Electrical Engineering | Civil Engineering | Mechatronics | Process Engineering | Computer Science | Industrial Engineering | Aerospace Engineering |
| Economics and Law | Business Administration | Economics | Business Informatics | International Business | Business Law | Law | Finance and Accounting | Marketing |
| Medicine and Health Sciences | Human Medicine | Dentistry | Pharmacy | Nursing Science | Health Management | Nutritional Science | Medical Engineering | Public Health |
| Art and Design | Graphic Design | Architecture | Fashion Design | Film and Media | Art History | Music | Theatre Studies | Interior Design |
| Education and Pedagogy | Teaching (various school types and subjects) | Pedagogy | Educational Science | Educational Management | Social Pedagogy | |||
| Agricultural and Environmental Sciences | Agricultural Science | Forestry | Agriculture | Environmental Protection | Ecology | Sustainability Management | ||
| Computer Science and Digitalization | Computer Science | Media Informatics | Software Development | Artificial Intelligence | Data Science | Cyber Security | ||
| Communication and Media Studies | Journalism | Media Studies | Communication Studies | Public Relations | Advertising and Marketing Communication |
The question of which study program is right for you depends on a number of personal factors. It is important to reflect on your interests, strengths, values and career goals in order to make an informed decision.
The question “What exactly do I want to study?” is the decisive step in the Choice of Study process. Once you have reflected on your interests, strengths and career goals, it is now time to choose a specific field of study. Here are some aspects that can help you with your decision:
| Aspect | Explanation |
| Combination of subjects | Some degree programs offer the opportunity to combine different subjects. For example, if you have both business and technical interests, a degree course such as Industrial Engineering or Technology Management could suit you. |
| Interdisciplinary courses such as media studies, environmental sciences or cultural studies also offer the opportunity to combine several areas of interest. | |
| Career prospects | Which degree courses lead to the careers you can imagine? Find out about career opportunities after your studies. Are there any professions that particularly attract you and what qualifications are required for them? |
| Also take a look at what the job market looks like for certain fields of study. For example, careers in IT, medicine and engineering are currently in high demand, while career prospects in the humanities are often more varied but less clear. | |
| Duration of studies and requirements | How long do you want to study? A Bachelor's degree generally lasts 3 to 4 years, followed by a Master's degree lasting another 1 to 2 years. Do you perhaps even want to do a doctorate afterwards? |
| Also consider the requirements of the study program. Some degree courses are particularly research-oriented, while others have a more practical focus. Do you want a lot of practical work (e.g. internships or laboratory work) or more theoretical work? | |
| Location and universities | The choice of study location can also play a role. Do you want to stay close to home or attend a university in another city or even abroad? |
| Some universities specialize in certain fields or offer unique programs. For example, there are universities that are particularly well known for certain subjects such as engineering, medicine or art. | |
| Exchange programs and internationality | Are you planning to go abroad during your studies? Then a degree course with integrated exchange programs or a degree course with an international focus could be of interest to you. Degree courses such as International Business or International Relations are often designed with this in mind. |
| Also check whether the degree course offers internationally recognized qualifications if you want to work in other countries later on. | |
| Dual study programs or practice-oriented alternatives | If you would like to gain practical experience during your studies, you could consider a dual study program. Here you combine your studies with vocational training or fixed practical phases in a company. |
| Such a model is available in many fields, e.g. Business Studies, Computer Science, Engineering or Health Management. | |
| Plan B - consider alternatives | It can also be helpful to think about alternatives. If your first choice of degree program is not feasible (e.g. due to a Numerus Clausus), what would be alternative degree programs that might also interest you? |
| Think about which degree programs are thematically related so that you have some flexibility. For example, someone interested in medicine could also consider courses such as biomedicine, health sciences or nursing science. | |
| Subject specialization or generalist? | Do you want to specialize in a very specific field (e.g. biotechnology, artificial intelligence), or would you prefer to lay a broad foundation that keeps many options open to you (e.g. Business Studies, Engineering, Computer Science)? |
| A generalist degree course offers more flexibility in later professional life, while a specialization often gives you a clear career goal during your studies. | |
| Self-reflection: Does the study program really suit me? | Have you gathered enough information to be sure that this degree program is really right for you? Internships, taster lectures or discussions with students in this subject area can help you to gain a realistic impression. |
The question “How do I want to study?” refers to which form of study and which learning environment best suits your needs, preferences and life circumstances. There are different ways to organize your studies, and each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some important aspects to consider when making your decision:
Full-time study: The most common form of study. You devote the majority of your time to your studies, usually at a university or university of applied sciences. This is ideal if you want to concentrate fully on your studies and don't have to work a time-consuming job at the same time.
Part-time study: Here you study at a reduced pace, often only half of the modules, and can better combine your studies with a job or family commitments.
Extra occupational study: You work full-time or part-time alongside your studies. There are often special programs that are tailored to the needs of working people.
On-campus study: Here you regularly attend lectures, seminars and tutorials at a university or university of applied sciences. You benefit from direct interaction with lecturers and fellow students.
Distance learning: You study from any location, mostly online or with study materials that are sent to you. This form is particularly suitable for people who want or need to study flexibly.
The dual study program combines practical work in a company with theoretical study at a university. It is particularly interesting for practice-oriented students who want to gain professional experience early on.
You can choose an international study program in which you study abroad or in a program with a strong international focus.
Many degree courses offer the opportunity to integrate internships or practical semesters. This allows you to combine theory and practice and gain valuable insights into everyday working life.
Traditional lectures and seminars: You take part in traditional lectures, which often take place in large lecture halls, and work in seminars with smaller groups. This form of learning is well structured and offers clear time frames.
Online and hybrid formats: Many universities now also offer online formats or hybrid models, where part of the study takes place online and part in attendance. This flexibility can help you to better combine study and other commitments.
Project-oriented learning: In some degree programs, the focus is on practical projects, often in collaboration with companies. This is particularly relevant in areas such as computer science or engineering.
University: Universities are more focused on research and theory. If you are interested in a scientific study or would like to do a doctorate later, a university is the better choice.
University of Applied Sciences: Universities of Applied Sciences often offer practice-oriented courses and are closely linked to the business world. They place more emphasis on the practical application of what you have learned.
Financing your studies is an important aspect. Think about how you would like to finance your studies: through BAföG, student loans, part-time jobs or a scholarship. Choosing between part-time, dual study or studying in a cheaper city can also have financial advantages.
The question of where you want to study depends on several factors, including both academic and personal considerations. Here are some aspects that can help you make the right decision:
The location of your university will not only affect your study experience, but also your everyday life and career opportunities. Consider whether you would prefer to study in a large city or a smaller town:
If you are looking for an international environment or would like to work abroad long-term, studying abroad could be the right choice for you. Many universities offer international study programs, either completely abroad or with exchange opportunities. Cities such as London, Paris, New York or Sydney offer renowned universities and diverse career opportunities.
If you are interested in a specific subject area such as art, technology or business, specialized universities are a good option. Examples include:
The location of the university can also be influenced by career opportunities. In cities with a strong economy or special industries, you often have better internship and job opportunities during and after your studies. For example, Munich (technology and finance), Berlin (start-ups and creative industries) and Frankfurt (financial sector) offer many career opportunities.
In addition to the academic aspects, quality of life plays a major role. Factors such as the cost of rent and living expenses, leisure opportunities and the general environment should also factor into your decision. Cities such as Munich or Hamburg are more expensive, but offer a high quality of life. In smaller cities, the cost of living is often lower, but the leisure activities on offer may be more limited.
Choosing where to study should be a combination of academic goals, career prospects and personal preferences. Whether you choose a big city, a small town, study abroad or at a specialized university such as Munich Business School (MBS) depends on your individual needs and priorities.
If you are undecided about your Choice of Study, there are many advisory services available to you, from professional student advisory services to psychological support and online tests. Use these opportunities to get a clear idea of which degree program and career suits your interests, strengths and goals. An open conversation with advisors, teachers or students can often open up new perspectives and help you make an informed decision.
| Contact point | Example | Explanation |
| Study and careers advice centers | Careers advice from the Federal Employment Agency | The Federal Employment Agency offers comprehensive advice on study and career choices. You can have individual discussions there to clarify your interests, strengths and possible courses of study or training occupations. They also offer aptitude and inclination tests to help you specify your preferences. |
| University student advisory services | Every university and college offers a central student advisory service. These advisors are familiar with the specific degree courses and can help you to find out which degree course suits your interests. They can also help you with your application and explain the admission requirements. | |
| Psychological counseling centers | School psychological services | If you are still at school and are unsure, school psychological counseling can be a good place to go. They help with orientation and coping with decision-making pressure. |
| Psychological counseling centers at universities | Many universities also offer psychological counseling that can help you not only with questions about your studies, but also with uncertainties or self-doubt. | |
| Online tools and tests | StudiFinder (for North Rhine-Westphalia) | This online tool offers the opportunity to take a test and receive suggestions for degree programs that match your interests and abilities. |
| Check-U (from the Federal Employment Agency) | A comprehensive online test that helps you to better assess your strengths and aptitudes and identify suitable fields of study and careers. | |
| University Compass | An online portal that bundles all courses offered at German universities and provides detailed information on degree programs. Special search filters according to interests or regions are also available. | |
| Teachers and school counselors | Teachers | Your teachers, especially subject teachers who know your strengths in various subjects, can give valuable advice on which subject area might suit you. |
| School counselors | Many schools offer career and study orientation days, and you can also use your school's counseling services to talk to experts about study options. | |
| Career and orientation fairs | Study and training fairs | At fairs such as Horizon, vocatium or Stuzubi, you will meet universities, companies and study advisors who will give you an overview of study opportunities, career options and internships. There are often also presentations and workshops to help you make your decision. |
| Career days and advisor days at universities | Many universities organize information days where you can talk directly to lecturers, students and student advisors. These events offer a good insight into the different degree programs and campus life. | |
| Alumni and students | Talking to students | If you have the opportunity to talk to students who are already studying a course that interests you, you can gain valuable insights into everyday life and the requirements of the course. Many universities offer taster days where you can attend lectures and explore the campus. |
| Alumni networks | Former students, known as alumni, can also provide you with valuable experience from their time at university and their career entry. Universities often have alumni networks that you can use. | |
| Family and friends | Family members and close friends | They know you well and can often give you valuable feedback on your interests and strengths. They are an important support in the decision-making process and can also tell you about their own experiences. |
If you have doubts about your Choice of Study, this is completely normal and happens to many students. There are various steps that can help you clarify your situation and find out whether you are on the right course or whether a change makes sense.
Having doubts about your Choice of Study is not unusual and should be used as an opportunity for reflection. Take time to analyze your situation, talk to advisors and other students, and also consider practical experience. Sometimes a small adjustment is enough to find joy in your studies again, but a change of degree program can also be the right step if you find that the current path does not suit your long-term goals.
Whether Business Studies is difficult to study depends largely on your interests and abilities. Munich Business School (MBS), for example, offers a practice-oriented and international Business Studies program that is well-structured and offers support through small study groups. If you are interested in economic contexts and are able to think analytically, studying Business Studies at MBS is very feasible. Of course, like any study program, it requires discipline and commitment, but the practical orientation of MBS facilitates the learning process through realistic tasks and projects.
Admission-free degree courses are often available in areas that are less in demand or at universities that offer sufficient places. These often include subjects in the humanities, mathematics or engineering at certain universities. Whether a degree course is admission-free depends on the university in question and the location.
Degree programs with low NCs are often found in the fields of mathematics, physics or some engineering sciences, as the number of applicants is often lower there. At Munich Business School (MBS), however, there is no Numerus Clausus (NC), as admission is based on a separate selection process that focuses on the applicant's personality, motivation and abilities.
Degree courses that are considered particularly challenging include medicine, dentistry, law, engineering (such as mechanical or electrical engineering), physics, mathematics, pharmacy, architecture, computer science and psychology. The degree of difficulty often depends on the combination of learning effort, complexity of content and examination requirements.
Yes, Munich is a very good city to study in. It offers excellent universities, many career opportunities thanks to the strong economy and a wide range of leisure and cultural activities. However, the cost of living, especially rents, is relatively high.
Elsenheimerstraße 61
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