Exchange Semester

The University of Education is beautifully located in the south of Germany with a view of the Alps and close to Lake Constance. In the baroque monastery complex on the Martinsberg you will find a unique atmosphere for learning and research, short distances and direct contact.

Number of students:
Approx. 3 500

Semester dates:
Winter semester:   1 October - 30 March
Summer semester: 1 April - 30  September

The English course catalog for the current semester can be found here.

The course catalog of the PH Weingarten is called „Lehre Studium Forschung“ (LSF).
LSF Course Catalog

The "Global Classroom in Teacher Education" is an enriching, one-semester program designed for international exchange students who aspire to deepen their understanding of global education practices, intercultural competencies, and subject-specific didactics. Offered by the University of Education Weingarten, this innovative program combines academic learning with hands-on teaching experience, providing an exceptional opportunity for future educators to engage in a truly international learning environment.

Program Structure (Course catalog below)

The program consists of four key modules that are thoughtfully designed to create a comprehensive learning journey.

1. International and Intercultural Education
   This module serves as the foundation of the program, introducing students to global educational systems and intercultural learning approaches. Participants explore the diverse cultural perspectives and challenges that shape education today, while learning how to effectively address these challenges in their teaching practices.
2. Intercultural Teaching Practice
   A unique aspect of this program is the emphasis on real-world experience. Through the Intercultural Teaching Practice module, students will have the opportunity to engage in a teaching internship within diverse classrooms, collaborating with local teachers to apply their theoretical knowledge in practical settings. This module fosters skills such as adaptability, empathy, and cross-cultural communication, all of which are essential for effective teaching in today’s multicultural classrooms.
3. Subject-Specific Teaching Competences / Didactics
   Tailored to the individual needs and interests of the students, this module offers a wide range of options that allow participants to focus on their subject-specific teaching competencies. Whether it's language, science, mathematics, or any other discipline, students can choose from a variety of electives that align with their academic and professional aspirations. This flexibility ensures that each participant can shape their learning experience to best suit their future career goals as an educator.
4. Introduction to German Language, Culture, and the School System
   For students coming from outside of Germany, this module offers a comprehensive introduction to the German language, culture, and the German school system. This element not only supports personal integration but also helps students understand the cultural context in which they will be teaching, making it easier to engage with local students and teachers.

Why Choose the Global Classroom in Teacher Education?

• A Global Perspective
  The program is built to prepare educators for the challenges of teaching in increasingly globalized and multicultural environments. Students are exposed to international teaching methods, educational theories, and classroom practices, giving them an edge in today’s diverse educational landscape.
• Hands-on Experience
  The Intercultural Teaching Practice module provides real-world, classroom-based experience. This hands-on approach is invaluable for developing practical teaching skills and for gaining insights into the teaching profession from an international perspective.
• Flexibility and Choice
  The subject-specific didactics module allows students to tailor their learning journey according to their own interests and career goals. With a wide range of electives to choose from, participants can deepen their knowledge in their chosen field of education while gaining expertise in innovative teaching methods.
• Cultural Immersion
  Studying in Germany provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in German culture and educational practices. By learning the language and exploring the cultural landscape, students gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity that shapes education globally.
• International Network
  Participants will connect with fellow exchange students, local educators, and professionals from around the world. This international network fosters collaboration, knowledge exchange, and future professional opportunities, helping students build valuable relationships for their career.

Whether you are looking to broaden your teaching expertise, immerse yourself in a new culture, or develop skills to teach in diverse educational settings, the "Global Classroom in Teacher Education" program at University of Education Weingarten offers a unique and transformative experience.

You apply for a room in the student residence "Seezeit". This application must be submitted to Seezeit by June 15 or December 15.

There is a high demand for rooms in and around Weingarten, which is why we strongly (!) recommend applying for a room in the student dormitory.

If you are applying to a student residence, the International Office will be happy to help you with the preparations. All necessary information will be sent in time by email.

Please note that the dormitory room must always be paid for five full months. This also applies if you should leave before that.

Comforter, pillow and bed linen can be purchased from "Seezeit" for 45,-€.

The cost of living at student level is about 750 to 800,-€ per month, including rent and utilities and personal expenses, of course always strongly dependent on personal lifestyle.

We strongly recommend bringing enough cash for the initial period (before receiving the scholarship). 500,-€ is recommended. Large bills are not accepted for a bus ticket or other small purchases. Therefore, bring enough small change or small bills. We also remind you that cash payment is still widespread in Germany and credit/debit cards cannot be used everywhere.

We support the exchange students in opening a German bank account. However, it can take 3 to 4 weeks until the account is successfully opened.

Before students apply directly to PH Weingarten, a nomination from the home university must take place. To find out if your home university is a partner university of PH Weingarten, please have a look here.

For the nomination we need: Student's last name, first name, email, date of birth, field of study, and semester of study. Please send this information to  internationaloffice(at)ph-weingarten.de

After successful nomination, students will receive a confirmation email with a link to the Mobility Online application portal.

Now you can apply via the application portal Mobility Online at the PH Weingarten. We ask for a prompt processing of the online application to ensure a smooth process.

The following application documents (documents as .pdf and images as .jpg) are required for a successful application:

• Signed application form
• Resume
• Application photo
• Letter of motivation in German, alternatively in English (1 to 2 pages)
• Certificate of enrollment from the home university
• Overview of grades
• German certificate, alternatively English certificate