FAQs

NORDAKADEMIE is a private, state-recognized university of applied sciences in Hamburg, northern part of Germany, specializing in dual and part-time degree programs. Founded in 1992, it has established itself as a leading institution for combining academic excellence with practical experience.

The university offers business, engineering, and IT programs, allowing students to alternate between theoretical studies at the Campus and hands-on training at their partner companies. This dual study model ensures strong industry connections and excellent career prospects.

NORDAKADEMIE maintains close partnerships with more than 400 companies, enabling students to gain valuable work experience while earning their degree. Small class sizes, modern facilities, and a focus on innovation and sustainability create an optimal learning environment.

With its practical approach, industry integration, and commitment to quality education, NORDAKADEMIE prepares students for successful careers in a rapidly evolving job market.

ORGANIZATION

 

Dual Study Program in Germany
Background:

• Established in the 19th century, particularly in engineering and innovation.
• Strongly linked to companies like Fresenius, BAYER, BASF, and Siemens.

Concept:

• Integrated academic and practical education (simultaneous, not sequential).
• Ensures direct application of acquired knowledge in the working world.

NORDAKADEMIE dual study program:

• Combines theoretical learning with practical corporate training.
• Partner companies provide structured on-the-job training aligned with coursework.
• Students pass through company departments to gain industry-specific skills.
• Mentors and professionals support knowledge transfer and skill development.

Company requirements:

• Register to become a partner company.
• Recruit and hire qualified candidates.
• Create on-site interdepartmental training and onboarding plan for co-op duration.
• Ask for manuals, which we will be happy to send you

 

To participate in the program, you’ll need to meet specific academic criteria to ensure you’re ready for both the academic and practical challenges:

• High school diploma combined with an associate degree.
• High school diploma and have passed Advanced Placement (AP*) exams.
• High school diploma and have successfully completed 2 years of study at an accredited college or university.
• Graduation from a German school (Abitur).

Furthermore, make sure to obtain and submit proof of health insurance

(AP*)

* The „Student Score Report“ shows four Advanced Placement exams with at least a grade of 3 in the following subjects:

a) Mathematics (AP Calculus AB or BC),
b) 1 science subject (AP Biology or AP Chemistry or AP Physics C (AP Physics C: Mechanics and AP Physics C: Electricity

and Magnetism)),

c) 1 language (AP French or AP Spanish or AP Latin or AP German or AP English Literature or AP English Language

and Composition),

d) 1 additional subject corresponding to the upper secondary school (e.g. AP European/World/United States History,

AP Computer Science A or AP Macroeconomics (0.5 credits/units) and AP Microeconomics (0.5 credits/units)).

These exams must be taken separately with the College Board while attending school

As this is a German American Co-op study program by NORDAKADEMIE University of Applied Sciences in Germany in collaboration with the College of Charleston, students spend up to 6 months in the north of Germany. There they will specifically learn the most technical parts of the program.

Key Benefits for companies

1. Immediate contribution

Students are job-ready from day one, bringing teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills to their companies.

2. Theory meets practice

Combining studies with hands-on experience ensures knowledge is directly applicable in the workplace.

3. Access to talent

Companies benefit from early recruitment, with students earning a compensation while gaining experience.

4. Workforce retention

Graduates commit to at least two years with the company, reducing unemployment risks.

5. No student costs

Tuition is covered by the company, with potential additional compensation.

This model ensures skilled, financially secure, and committed employees for the future.

• Currently the concept of German American Co-op is not accredited in USA ​
• Therefore, NORDAKADEMIE is stepping in with its education model ​
• It’s a full-time study model that accepts company work for college credits​
• Students are collecting college credits in a 6-month period after “regular” college time at College of Charleston and NORDAKADEMIE and “reflecting” time at their employing company ​
• After 3 years of German American Co-op students graduate with the degree in “International Engineering & Management” B.Eng. from NORDAKADEMIE​
• B.Eng. from NORDAKADEMIE is an internationally accredited degree (incl. USA)​