FAQ

 

APPLICATION AND ADMISSION

How can I apply for the program?

Applications for programs at the University of Cologne are submitted via the KLIPS 2.0 online portal. All information on application, admission, and enrollment can be found on the homepage of the Student Secretariat of the University of Cologne.

 

Is this program only offered in the winter semester?

Yes, as a first-semester student, you can only start in the winter semester. 

 

What criteria are used to select applicants?

Applicants are selected according to the local selection procedure based on their grade point average; there are no other admission requirements.

 

Do I need to have prior knowledge of DGS?

Prior knowledge of DGS is not expected.

 

I am already studying sign language interpreting at another university and would like to transfer to Cologne. How can I apply?

If the names of the subject and degree at your previous university match those at the University of Cologne, your case is considered a change of location. Social circumstances are used as a secondary selection criterion for applications as a change of location. Further information can be found on this page.

 

Can I attend classes as a guest student?

In general, it is possible to attend our classes as a guest student, but you must first consult with the lecturers regarding capacity in the individual courses. Please note that guest student status excludes you from obtaining a formal degree and taking exams. Further information can be found here.

 

Can I study for a bachelor's degree in sign language interpreting with a vocational baccalaureate diploma?

Unfortunately, it is not possible to study at the University of Cologne with a vocational baccalaureate diploma. However, there are exceptions if you can demonstrate suitable professional qualifications. Further information can be found here.

 

Can I complete the Bachelor's degree in Sign Language Interpreting as a second degree alongside my main degree?

You can only study two degree programs in parallel if one of the degree programs is admission-free. Since no degree program at the University of Cologne is open to all applicants in the first semester, you would have to be in a higher semester of your main degree program that is open to all applicants, or you would have to apply to the Examination Office to be placed in a higher semester based on your existing credits in the Bachelor's degree program in Sign Language Interpreting (see below). For more detailed information, please contact the Examination Office of the Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation.

 

 

UPGRADING AND CREDIT TRANSFER

I did not get a place for the first semester, but I already have credits that correspond to the degree program. Can I still join the current semester?

If you have enough credits, you may be able to transfer to the next semester or, depending on the time of year, to the current semester. To do so, you must apply for an upgrade at the Special Education Examination Office and apply for a place in a higher semester via KLIPS 2. Once you are enrolled, you can have your credits transferred via the Examination Office. All deadlines and necessary documents can be found on the Examination Office website.

 

How can I be upgraded?

If you have enough credit points from a previous degree program, you can be upgraded to a higher semester. You can apply for an upgrade at the Examination Office of the Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation at the University of Cologne. You can find out which documents you need to submit on the Examination Office website. You must submit the placement notice, which you will receive from the Examination Office after your documents have been processed, to the Student Secretariat of the University of Cologne in order to be admitted to a higher semester.

 

I have already completed courses that correspond to the content of the Bachelor's degree in Sign Language Interpreting. Can I have these credited?

If you are enrolled as a regular student in the Sign Language Interpreting program at the University of Cologne, you can apply for credit transfer at the Examination Office of the Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation. To do so, fill out the application for credit transfer and submit it to the Examination Office along with the other required documents.

 

STUDIES

Is there an introductory event?

At the beginning of each winter semester, there is an introductory event for first-semester students. Information about this and dates will be posted on our website in good time. General dates for study organization at the University of Cologne can be found here.

 

Where can I find information about the content and structure of the program?

All information can be found in our module handbook.

 

Are other sign languages or spoken languages studied in addition to German Sign Language?

Apart from German Sign Language and a German module, no other languages are covered in the program. However, there are plans to offer a course on International Signs or BSL.

 

How much is the semester fee?

Information on re-registration and semester fees at the University of Cologne can be found on this page of the Student Secretariat website.

 

 

Is it possible to study part-time? Can I continue working while studying?

As this is a full-time program with compulsory attendance in the extensive DGS courses (16 hours per week in the first semester), part-time study is not recommended unless the applicant already has a high level of DGS proficiency. For more detailed information, please contact Prof. Dr. Pamela Perniss.

Why can't I register for courses or exams in KLIPS 2?

As the program is still very new, it may be that courses are not yet available for registration or that you cannot register for exams.  In this case, please contact the SSC Special Education.

Who can I contact if I have further questions?

If you have organizational questions or questions about KLIPS 2.0, please contact the SSC Special Education.

If you have any further questions, please contact Prof. Dr. Pamela Perniss.