About the degree programme
The Management Foundation Course at Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences is designed for anyone who wants to study management and business but hasn’t yet finalized their area of specialization or doesn’t feel ready for a “real degree program” just yet.
Over the course of two semesters, you can explore key concepts in management and business in connection with digitalization, communication, culture, tourism, or health. You’ll choose from various subject modules, gain real academic experience, and can have the examination components you pass recognized toward a regular degree program later on.
The Foundation course is suitable for part-time study, is tuition-free, and offers you maximum security: You can use exams you’ve passed in subject modules as a “free attempt” toward a later, compatible Bachelor’s degree program here at HSZG.
Who is the Foundation course intended for?
- You know you want to go to college, but you’re not yet sure which degree programme is right for you.
- You want to experience real university life and try out modules instead of just comparing them theoretically.
- You’d like to achieve some academic achievements now that won’t go to waste but can be recognized toward your future degree.
- You’re generally interested in business and management—but you’re also interested in digitalization/IT, communication, the cultural or tourism sectors, or healthcare—without having to commit right away.
- You’re looking for a gentle, good-quality introduction to college with a manageable workload.
Study details
The most important facts at a glance:
| degree: | Certificate (not an academic degree) |
| standard period of study: | 2 semesters (part-time study programme) |
| ECTS credits: | Up to 40 ECTS credits as standard (upon successful completion), up to 20 ECTS credits through additional elective modules |
| Enrolment for: | Winter semester (entry into the 2nd semester or summer semester is possible) |
| Application period: May 1 through September 30 | Start of studies: October |
| Admission restrictions: | No admission restrictions (no NC) Details |
| Costs: | No tuition fees |
| Special feature: | Exams in subject modules count as free attempts toward future degree programmes with recognition. |
Course of study
You can also start the Foundation course during the summer semester, effectively taking a bridge or transition semester.
During this time, you’ll “learn how to study” and dive into “Academic Work in the Digital World.”
You’ll take two additional modules (10 ECTS), e.g.:
- Management
- Marketing or Tourism Marketing
- Digitalization Technologies
- Communication in the Business World
- Culture and Art Forms
- Medical Psychology, etc.
This allows you to explore which topics and fields truly suit you—and if you’d like to go even further, you can delve deeper with up to two additional modules and earn extra ECTS credits.
If you successfully complete at least 60% of the required exams, you will receive a certificate listing all your achievements and ECTS credits—which serves as an ideal foundation for transitioning to a bachelor’s degree program.
Career and study prospects
The foundation course itself is not a degree, but it offers a strategic advantage:
- an informed decision about the right degree programme
- real university and exam experience
- courses and ECTS credits that count toward your degree
- lower risk of dropping out of a major or program
Graduates may then transfer to one of the following Bachelor degree programmes:
FAQ
Is the foundation course a real degree program?
Yes. You are officially enrolled, take actual modules, and take exams.
Can I receive recognition for these achievements in afuture degree program?
Yes, if there is equivalence in the content, you can receive recognition for modules you’ve passed in a future degree program.
What does “free attempt” mean?
For modules that count toward your degree, you carry over the grade—and have the chance to improve it if necessary.
How many exams do I have to pass?
To earn the certificate, youmust pass at least 60% of the required exams.
Are there tuition fees?
No. Only the regular semester fee applies.
Your contact persons
2nd upper floor
First floor
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Our promise to you
Studying in the wild east?
Studying with us is different. Above all, it's better. Why? We have a family atmosphere. There are small study groups and the lecturers are always there for you. There is a close connection to practice in all degree courses. And finding affordable accommodation is no problem here.
There are many other reasons, such as university sports or the student representatives, clubs and societies. Campus life in Zittau and Görlitz - the wild east - is unique.