Vocational training or academic studies: what is the better fit for me?
Dual vocational training combines theory and practice. Due to you spending a lot of time in the company, you will gain a lot of practical work experience. During in-school vocational training, your education will mostly be based on theory (relating to a specific profession) complemented by practical units.
Academic studies are more science- and research-oriented: it prepares you for a deeper understanding of subject-related topics. There are differences between the different types of universities (of applied sciences), as well as the individual courses of study.
Location
- Dual vocational training: company + vocational school
- In-school vocational training: vocational school
- Academic studies: university (of applied sciences)
Duration
- Vocational training generally takes a shorter time to complete: 2 to 3,5 years.
- Academic studies take about 3 to 5 years to complete, depending on whether undergraduate bachelor studies are followed by a master’s degree.
Costs
During dual vocational training, you earn money from the onset. In-school vocational training is generally funded by the state (except for private schools) and you have minimal to no costs. Academic studies at public universities are mostly free of charge (exception: administrative costs known as semester fees [Semesterbeitrag]).
Career goals
Academic studies open doors to academic, specialized and often higher positions, international occupations, research or a doctorate/PhD programme.
If you wish to work in a profession promptly, vocational training is a very good option. Even with vocational training, your career can advance, for example via further training qualifications (Bachelor and Master Professional). Under certain conditions, you can also enter an academic course of study with completed vocational training.