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Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz
Master German Social Sciences

German as a Foreign Language/German as a Second LanguageGerman as a Foreign and Second Language

Master of Arts (M.A.)

About the Program

This Master's program in German as a Foreign Language/German as a Second Language focuses on teaching German effectively to various target groups at different proficiency levels. Students combine scientific knowledge with practical orientation, learning to evaluate didactic methods and apply them in language teaching. The curriculum covers grammar instruction, pronunciation, virtual teaching formats, and develops a broad range of competencies aligned with modern foreign language teaching requirements. Students expand their knowledge in areas such as foreign language didactics, neuroscientific foundations of language learning, culture-reflexive learning, and discursive regional studies. The program prepares graduates for careers in language teaching, academia, or cultural institutions by connecting theoretical analysis with competence-oriented learning content.
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This Master's program in German as a Foreign Language/German as a Second Language focuses on teaching German effectively to various target groups at different proficiency levels. Students combine scientific knowledge with practical orientation, learning to evaluate didactic methods and apply them in language teaching. The curriculum covers grammar instruction, pronunciation, virtual teaching formats, and develops a broad range of competencies aligned with modern foreign language teaching requirements. Students expand their knowledge in areas such as foreign language didactics, neuroscientific foundations of language learning, culture-reflexive learning, and discursive regional studies. The program prepares graduates for careers in language teaching, academia, or cultural institutions by connecting theoretical analysis with competence-oriented learning content.

General Requirements

Specific requirements for this program are not in our database yet. The following are typical for this degree and language in Germany — always verify the exact requirements on the program's official page.

Academic qualification

A recognised Bachelor's degree in a related field; some programs require a minimum grade or specific prerequisites.

Language

German at C1 level (DSH-2, TestDaF TDN 4, Goethe-Zertifikat C1, or telc C1 Hochschule).

Typical documents

  • Recognised diploma and transcript (certified translations)
  • Language certificate
  • Passport and passport photo
  • Tabular CV (Lebenslauf)
  • Letter of motivation (for many programs)
  • Application via uni-assist / VPD (for most international applicants)

Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?

Related profession searches from Bundesagentur für Arbeit (BERUFENET) data:

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Subjects / Topic Areas

German as a Foreign Language/German as a Second Language

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about German as a Foreign Language/German as a Second Language at Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz

Is German as a Foreign Language/German as a Second Language at Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz taught in German or English?

This Master programme is taught in German. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.

How much does the German as a Foreign Language/German as a Second Language programme cost?

No tuition fee (only semester contribution). International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.

What are the admission requirements for German as a Foreign Language/German as a Second Language at Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz?

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (German), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).

When is the application deadline?

Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.

Can I work in Germany while studying German as a Foreign Language/German as a Second Language?

Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.

How do I apply to Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz — directly or via uni-assist?

Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.

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