Skip to content
International Psychoanalytic University Berlin
Sprachkurs English Social Sciences

Introduction to Psychoanalysis

Language Course

About the Program

This course serves as an essential introduction to the fundamental concepts of psychoanalysis as originally developed by Sigmund Freud. Aimed at undergraduate psychology students, it offers a foundational understanding of core psychoanalytic principles, including diagnosis, transference, the role and behaviour of the analyst, tactics of interpretation, and the formation and training of analysts. Through a series of lectures, students will become acquainted with Freud's pivotal contributions to psychoanalytic theory and practice, providing a solid base for further exploration into the field. The course is designed as a bridge, offering students with no prior knowledge a first step towards advanced studies in psychoanalytic theory or clinical training as an analyst. In addition to Freud’s work, the course will introduce key developments from Object Relations Theory, Ego Psychology, and Lacanian Psychoanalysis, ensuring a well-rounded view of the psychoanalytic tradition. By the end of the course, students will be proficient in rudimentary psychoanalytic conceptualisation, positioning them for future academic or clinical pursuits in the field.
Show the original English text
This course serves as an essential introduction to the fundamental concepts of psychoanalysis as originally developed by Sigmund Freud. Aimed at undergraduate psychology students, it offers a foundational understanding of core psychoanalytic principles, including diagnosis, transference, the role and behaviour of the analyst, tactics of interpretation, and the formation and training of analysts. Through a series of lectures, students will become acquainted with Freud's pivotal contributions to psychoanalytic theory and practice, providing a solid base for further exploration into the field. The course is designed as a bridge, offering students with no prior knowledge a first step towards advanced studies in psychoanalytic theory or clinical training as an analyst. In addition to Freud’s work, the course will introduce key developments from Object Relations Theory, Ego Psychology, and Lacanian Psychoanalysis, ensuring a well-rounded view of the psychoanalytic tradition. By the end of the course, students will be proficient in rudimentary psychoanalytic conceptualisation, positioning them for future academic or clinical pursuits in the field.

Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?

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

Explore all professions →

Subjects / Topic Areas

Psychology

Similar Programs

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Introduction to Psychoanalysis at International Psychoanalytic University Berlin

Is Introduction to Psychoanalysis at International Psychoanalytic University Berlin taught in German or English?

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

How much does the Introduction to Psychoanalysis programme cost?

185 EUR / semester. International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.

What are the admission requirements for Introduction to Psychoanalysis at International Psychoanalytic University Berlin?

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (English), 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 Introduction to Psychoanalysis?

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 International Psychoanalytic University Berlin — 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.

📬 Get the weekly Germany guide in your inbox

New blog posts, application deadlines, scholarship announcements. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

Weekly Germany guide — 1–2 emails/week, no spam.

📬 Weekly Germany guide delivered to your inbox

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.