University degree programs combine research and teaching to provide a primarily science-based education. In degree programs where admission restrictions (numerus clausus) exist, admission to the desired degree program must be applied for. For degree programs with no admission restrictions, pre-registration may be required.
Universities are responsible for the maintenance and further development of the sciences through basic and applied research and scientifically based teaching. Universities have the right to award doctorates and habilitations; they train the next generation of scientists. Universities generally offer degree programs in theology, humanities, law, economics, social sciences, medicine, natural sciences, engineering and the various teaching professions. The program is usually designed as a bachelor's or master's degree. Bachelor's degree programs lead to a first university degree qualifying for a profession in a standard period of study of six to eight semesters. The course of study is completed by a university examination and the academic bachelor's degree is awarded. Master's degree programs lead to a second university degree in a standard period of study of two to four semesters. They either build directly on the first university degree or can be taken up as an advanced master's degree program after a period of professional practice following the first university degree. Here, too, the program is completed by a university examination and the academic master's degree is awarded.
In law, medicine and teaching, on the other hand, the courses of study conclude with a state examination ("Staatsexamen"), and in theology with an ecclesiastical examination.
Doctorate
With few exceptions, a doctorate is a prerequisite for an academic career and usually requires a master's degree.
Information with an overview of the addresses of all Bavarian universities (with links to the respective homepages) is provided by the Bavarian State Ministry of Education and Cultural Affairs, Science and the Arts (see "Related Links").
Information on the specific application requirements and admission procedures can be obtained directly from the student secretariat of the respective university.