Sabine

International get-together in Kaiserslautern

From 7. to 9. November 2023, the Best Practice Days with the topic “Chances & Challenges in Double Degree Programmes” took place at Kaiserslautern University of Applied Sciences – a partner university of UAS Technikum Wien. International department coordinators, employees of international offices and departments working with double degrees were invited. The interactive program consisted of presentations, best practice examples and discussions.

The aim of the Staff Week was to exchange ideas on the topic of double degrees and what a successful program design requires. Participants from universities in Argentina, Ireland, Germany and Lithuania shared their experiences in dealing with double degrees at their universities and showed how they plan, design and implement them in their study programs. Difficulties and obstacles that arise as well as the topic of quality assurance were also discussed.  

The Staff Week took place at the three university locations Kaiserslautern, Pirmasens and Zweibrücken. In addition to the program items on double degrees, the university premises and the cities of Kaiserslautern and Zweibrücken were visited and we had the opportunity to test a VR-simulation designed by a Master’s student. The week ended on Thursday with typical German cuisine. The intercultural exchange with partners and colleagues was a highlight of the week and contributed to in-depth discussions on the topics of double degrees, internationalization at higher education institutions and experiences in the implementation of mobilities. 

Double Degrees at UAS Technikum Wien

A double degree is a jointly coordinated and implemented program between two or more higher education institutions (double/multiple degree). Each institution contributes its socio-cultural environment, specific knowledge, strengths and experience and thus contributes to the joint study program.  

After completing a double degree, students receive two certificates – the title of UAS Technikum Wien (BSc/MSc) and the title of the respective partner institution. Graduates are not allowed to use more than one title at a time, but can use them flexibly and thus have access to the respective national labor markets. This is a particular advantage for people who want to be internationally mobile in their working life.  

UAS Technikum Wien currently offers 16 Double Degree Programs with 7 partners. Information on double degree options can be found on the UAS Technikum website, under the facts about the respective degree programs as well as under this weblink.

Outcome

The Staff Week facilitated intensive dialogue on the various aspects, opportunities and difficulties involved in implementing a double degree program. The best-practice examples from the participating institutions gave a good insight into their working methods and provided inspiration for implementation at UAS Technikum Wien.