Kickstart Your Acadamic Journey

This module is designed for newly admitted international students in English-language master’s programs. It promotes integration into daily university life and the academic program, and enhances communication skills, social interaction, and intercultural competencies.

The module takes place during the winter semester alongside regular coursework and is offered in cooperation with selected university departments. Participation in the module is free of charge.

The information on course content is preliminary and will be updated regularly. Further details can be found in the Moodle course.

The module consists of two courses:

Start Strong: Academic Skills and Student Community

Information, counselling, orientation

At the International Welcome organized by the International Office, you can expect a diverse program of online and in-person events designed to make the start of your studies at RUB easier. In addition, you will receive program-specific support from your degree program at the beginning of the semester, as well as individual assistance through peer-to-peer counseling.

Study-related skills

Regular tutorials provide you with optimal support as you begin your studies and cover program-specific content. In additional sessions, you’ll develop essential skills such as effective literature research and personalized learning strategies. In addition, at the Coaching Studio run by the Psychological Student Counseling Service, you’ll acquire important soft skills such as presentation, communication, time management, and stress management—all to help you succeed in your studies!

Intercultural skills

You will attend an intercultural training session where you will explore topics such as cultural sensitivity. In addition, the Anti-Discrimination Office will host an event on the topic of “unconscious bias.”

Culture and networking

Field trips in the region (e.g., the Oberhausen Gasometer) allow students to expand their knowledge and become more familiar with the area surrounding the university. In addition, social events offer opportunities to network and build social connections.

Language Course

Language

In this section, an intensive German course at level A1 is offered. The course will take place during the lecture-free period in March.

Time Commitment

Participation in International Welcomes events
Participation in individual peer-to-peer counseling
Participation in weekly in-person sessions
- 2 semester hours per week (SWS)
- Wednesdays, 2:00–4:00 p.m.
Participation in special events, such as group excursions
- on weekends or in the evenings
Participation in an intensive language course during the break between semesters

Certificate and accreditation

If you actively participate in more than 75% of the sessions in both parts of the course, you may, upon request, receive a certificate attesting to the knowledge and skills you have acquired.

Credit may be granted for selected degree programs. For more information on whether credit points (CP) can be applied toward your specific degree program, please contact your academic advisor. Upon successfully passing the exam for a language course, you will receive 2.5 CP and a separate certificate. Depending on your degree program and examination regulations, up to 5 CP may be awarded in total.