Master of Arts in German as a Foreign and Second Language (DaFZ)
A research-integrated Master’s programme combining linguistic theory, teaching practice, and empirical research in German as a foreign/second language.
Best for:Best for graduates in German studies, linguistics, or related fields seeking to specialise in German language teaching, research, and migration support with a focus on empirical methods and practical pedagogy.
Overview
This Master’s programme at the University of Kassel blends theoretical linguistics, didactic training, and practical teaching experience in German as a foreign and second language. Students develop expertise in research methods, language acquisition theories, and instructional design while preparing for careers in language education, migration support, or further academic study. The curriculum includes compulsory seminars on psycholinguistics, classroom observation, and digital media development, alongside an obligatory teaching practicum. The programme adapts to contemporary needs, such as integrating migrants and multilingual learners, and emphasises empirical research alongside practical application. No tuition fees apply, but applicants must demonstrate advanced German proficiency (C2 level) and a strong academic background in related fields.
What you'll do
- Develop and apply research methods in German as a foreign/second language to analyse teaching and learning processes.
- Participate in compulsory seminars covering psycholinguistics, classroom observation, and language acquisition theories.
- Complete an obligatory teaching practicum to gain hands-on experience in German language instruction.
- Conduct an independent study project focused on planning, executing, and evaluating a language teaching intervention.
- Engage in empirical research while developing skills in digital media design for language learning.
- Collaborate in group projects and student working groups to deepen theoretical and practical knowledge.
- Develop linguistic skills in phonetics, grammar, lexicology, and cultural studies relevant to German as a foreign language.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in German, German Studies, German as a Foreign or Second Language, or a related field with a minimum grade equivalent to 'B' (2.5) or better.
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: German proficiency at C2 level (official certificate required); no minimum English proficiency required.
Instruction: German (with integrated German language support for international students).
- Advanced proficiency in German (C2 level) with an official certificate (e.g., telc Deutsch C1 or Goethe-Zertifikat C2).
- Strong academic background in linguistics, language education, or related disciplines.
- Ability to write a compelling letter of motivation (3,000 characters minimum) addressing programme-specific criteria.
- Familiarity with research methods applicable to language education.
- Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
- No nationality or residency restrictions, but proof of German proficiency (C2) is mandatory.
- No age restrictions or prior experience caps.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
Admissions not verified
A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.
- Intake
- Not confirmed by the source
- Duration
- Not confirmed by the source
- Teaching language
- Not confirmed by the source
- Taught / research mode
- Not confirmed by the source
- Study mode
- Not confirmed by the source
- Campus
- Not confirmed by the source
- Prerequisites
- Not confirmed by the source
- Application instructions
- Not confirmed by the source
- Tuition
- Not confirmed by the source
- Funding
- Not confirmed by the source
How to apply
Deadline: 1 September (for German certificates) or 15 July (for foreign certificates)
Applicants must submit their application via the uni-assist portal. Required documents include a Bachelor’s degree certificate, proof of German proficiency (C2 level), a letter of motivation (3,000 characters minimum), and any additional academic transcripts. The application process is handled centrally through uni-assist, with specific deadlines for German and foreign certificates.
- Bachelor’s degree certificate or equivalent
- Official German proficiency certificate (C2 level)
- Letter of motivation (3,000 characters minimum)
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable, though not mandatory)
Contact
University of Kassel Admissions Office· Admissions Coordinator
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.