German as the tuition language
Students who have learned or are learning German as a second or foreign language are frequently confronted with the problem of teachers requiring them to improve their German skills, particularly in the scientific and music education disciplines, as everyday German is not always sufficient to be able to follow university courses.
If you would like to complete a degree programme at the mdw, please observe the German language requirements for the individual branches of study. These specifications are based on the proficiency levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:
- Diploma programmes: level B2 language skills
- Bachelor programmes: level B1 language skills
- Master programmes: level B2 language skills
- Doctoral programmes: level C1 language skills
If German is specified as the language of tuition in the course catalogue, it is not discriminatory to hold classes in German. In this case, there is no entitlement to tuition in any other language. However, in individual cases tuition can be given, or the final thesis written, in a different language, provided that the teacher (and the other course participants) agree.
The Student Union Office for Foreign Students at the mdw offers language and culture tandem to support students’ acquisition of German.
If you feel you are being discriminated against based on your German skills, e.g. because much higher levels of language proficiency are required in classes than are specified in the study guide, or because you are being treated in a derogatory way based on your German skills, or because the teacher speaks in Austrian dialect, then please contact the AKG. We are happy to help you.
We take rapid, discreet action!
We are legally required to maintain confidentiality!