German-French Chemistry

The German-French Chemistry program at Saarland University offers a unique bilingual and bicultural educational experience, combining rigorous scientific training with the opportunity to engage deeply with both German and French linguistic and cultural contexts. This multidisciplinary program is designed for students who are passionate about chemistry and interested in developing a comprehensive understanding of chemical sciences while gaining proficiency in both German and French languages. Throughout the course of the program, students will undertake a balanced curriculum that integrates theoretical foundations, practical laboratory work, and interdisciplinary projects, all within an international environment. The program emphasizes innovative research methods, sustainability in chemical processes, and the development of skills essential for careers in academia, industry, and research institutions. Participants benefit from exchanges and collaborative projects with partner universities and research institutes across Germany and France, fostering a truly European perspective on scientific challenges and solutions. The curriculum includes core courses in organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, complemented by courses in materials science, environmental chemistry, and chemical engineering principles. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in seminars, workshops, and internships designed to enhance their practical skills and professional network. Additionally, the program supports language proficiency in technical and scientific German and French, preparing students to work effectively in multilingual, international environments. Graduates of the German-French Chemistry program will emerge well-equipped with advanced scientific knowledge, intercultural competence, and versatile communication skills, making them competitive candidates in the global job market. The program aligns with the European Higher Education Area standards, ensuring high-quality education and international recognition. Overall, this program provides an exceptional platform for aspiring chemists to develop their scientific expertise, language skills, and intercultural understanding in a dynamic, collaborative setting.

Educational organisation

Students of the programme spend the first two years in Saarbrücken and the third year in Strasbourg or Rennes.

Study abroad unit(s)

Students of the programme spend the first two years in Saarbrücken and the third year in Strasbourg or Rennes.

Forms of assessment

Exams, lab courses, industrial placement

Course objectives

The course aims to:

• provide students with a fundamental understanding of the main fields of chemistry
• prepare students for constitutive Master's programmes
• provide students with the skills needed to work internationally in an academic or industrial environment

Language requirements

Applicants must have German and French skills. English skills are also necessary.

Academic requirements

German higher education entrance qualification (Abitur) or a recognised equivalent higher education entrance qualification from the student's home country.

Enrolment fees

About 200 EUR per semester (fee includes free public transport in Saarland).

Costs of living

About 800 EUR per month to cover personal expenses (incl. accommodation)

Job opportunities

Students may be able to work at the department doing laboratory work or supervising other students during lab courses or seminars.

Funding opportunities within the university

Students receive mobility grants from the Deutsch-Französische Hochschule DFH (Franco-German University). They can also apply for support from the national scholarship programme, "Deutschlandstipendium", or they can apply to the EU's Erasmus programme for funding.

Arrival support

The International Office can help incoming students with a number of issues that need to be dealt with on arrival: finding suitable accommodation, registering with the university and with local authorities. The International Office also organises social and recreational events and intercultural training sessions.

Services and support for international students

Saarland University offers a special support and guidance service for our international students and visiting scholars. Besides welcoming new foreign students to the university, we organise excursions and cultural events at which students and scholars from abroad can meet German students and colleagues. Moreover, we also provide support in dealing with official and administrative matters. To encourage interaction between German and international students, the international office also runs the successful peer mentoring programme "you and me".

Accommodation

Rooms and apartments are relatively easy to find and are affordable. For more information, please visit: http://www.studentenwerk-saarland.de/en/Wohnen