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All about the Scheer School
Welcome to the frequently asked questions at Scheer School of Digital Sciences at Saarland University.
As a modern, international educational institution in the heart of Europe, we combine academic excellence with practical application and prepare you for the digital future. Our innovative programs are designed to equip professionals and leaders with the skills needed in tomorrow’s changing world of work.
Here you will find answers to the most important questions about our programs, costs, application procedures and opportunities for companies.
Why Scheer School?
The Scheer School offers you a modern, practice-oriented learning environment that is developed in close cooperation with industry, public administration and science. Our programs specifically teach the skills required to actively shape digital transformation processes. Course content is taught by academic and practice experts. You will be supported by our Learner-Lifecycle Team throughout the entire learning process.
What is the Scheer School of Digital Sciences?
The Scheer School of Digital Sciences is a joint initiative of Saarland University and the August-Wilhelm Scheer Institute. Our goal is to train specialists who can actively shape the digital transformation through practice-oriented and innovative educational programs.
What skills can I take with me for my working life?
Everything you need to get ahead in the digital world: from data skills and digital design to entrepreneurial thinking – including basic knowledge and application expertise in the field of artificial intelligence. Plus: We strengthen your self-development – so that you remain flexible, find new paths and help shape the future.
What does „Blended Learning“ mean?
Blended Learning means learning with structure – but flexibly.
Our courses combine online sessions and attendance days (approx. 20%) and self-directed learning (approx. 80%).
This means that you can organize the majority of your learning time individually – and benefit from interactive live sessions at the same time. This way, learning adapts to your everyday life.
Is the Scheer School accredited?
All certificates and study programs are quality-checked and accredited by the system accreditation of Saarland University.
How can I get to know the Scheer School in advance?
We regularly offer compact lunch webinars on selected topics. Participation is free of charge and open to anyone interested in our programs or individual specialist topics. A great opportunity to get to know the content, formats and people behind the Scheer School. If you would like individual advice now, you can simply make an appointment.
Certificate programs
Our certificate programs are accredited by Saarland University and are based on the ECTS credit system.
You can choose between:
- 3 ECTS I 4 weeks
- 6 ECTS I 8 weeks
The courses combine self-directed learnings (approx. 80%) with online sessions and attendance days (approx. 20%). A particular advantage: all certificates are 100% creditable towards our Master’s degree program.
What are certificates?
Certificates are compact programs that provide you with targeted specialist knowledge and skills. You can collect ECTS points – ideal for later recognition during your studies.
Click here for our program overview.
What is the structure of the certificates?
Self-study, group work and practical projects – all in a flexible blended learning format.
Depending on the topic, the certificates last 4 to 8 weeks and combine online sessions, attendance days (20%) and self-directed learning (80%). This allows you to integrate the certificates perfectly into your everyday life.
The workload is approx. 90 hours for a program duration of 4 weeks or approx. 180 hours for 8-week certificates. You can find a sample weekly schedule on the respective program pages of the certificates.
How long does a certificate take?
Depending on the topic and learning objective, a certificate lasts 4 or 8 weeks.
In which language are the certificates held?
The courses are usually held in German, but the learning material is in English. A good understanding of both languages (at least B2 level) is therefore an advantage.
If you feel more comfortable in English, that’s no problem: by individual arrangement, you can take the final exam in English, for example, or use English in your exchanges with teachers and supervisors.
We endeavor to respond flexibly to individual needs in terms of language.
Who can take part in the certificates?
Whether you are an individual or a company – everyone is welcome:
– Do you want to further your personal training? Simply register & get started.
– Companies can book complete courses for their team – customized and flexible.
All students must have a university entrance qualification or a vocational training with at least 2 years of professional experience and be able to prove language skills in German or English at B2 level.
Under Our programs you will find all the information you need and can book an appointment for a non-binding information session.
Unter Unsere Programme findest du alle nötigen Infos und kannst dir einen Termin für ein unverbindliches Info-Gespräch buchen.
Unter Unsere Programme findest du alle nötigen Infos und kannst dir einen Termin für ein unverbindliches Info-Gespräch buchen.
Are the certificates accredited?
All certificates and study programs are quality-checked and accredited by the system accreditation of Saarland University.
Can the certificate be completed online?
No, in order to enable the greatest possible learning success, our certificates are structured in a blended learning format. Around 80% of the content is taught online and asynchronously – ideal for self-study independent of time and place. The remaining 20% takes place in the form of synchronous online sessions and compact attendance phases in Saarbrücken. In this way, we combine maximum flexibility with practical interaction and personal exchange.
What is the application process for the certificates?
You can register for any of our certificates directly via our website.
Can I register for the certificates at short notice?
Registration should take place at least one week before the start of the certificate.
What documents do I need for my certificate application?
All you have to do is enter your personal details in our application form and confirm that you meet the entry requirements (B2 level German or English and university entrance qualification).
Master of Science:
Master for Digital Transformation.
In addition to our certificates, we also offer a Master’s program that specifically prepares students for the requirements of digital transformation. Practical, interdisciplinary and with direct applicability in the professional environment.
Costs & funding opportunities
The costs for our programs vary depending on the scope and duration.
You can choose between:
- 3 ECTS I 4 weeks I 2.000 €
- 6 ECTS I 8 weeks I 3.250 €
- Master: 120 ECTS I 2 years I 7.250 € per year / 1.850 € per quarter
What are the costs for the certificates and the Master´s program?
The fees vary depending on the program:
- Certificate programs: 3 ECTS, 4 weeks, 2.000 € per person
- Certificate programs: 6 ECTS, 8 weeks, 3.250 € per person
- Master: 7.250 € per year / 1.850 € per quarter
are there funding opportunities?
Basically, the following applies:
- For the Master’s degree, there is the option of taking advantage of student grants (Bafög)
- You can also find out about scholarships: Scholarship for pupils and students.
- More information: ASTA UdS , Studierendenwerk Saarland
- After individual consultation with your employer, it is possible that the costs for a certificate or the Master’s degree will be covered.
If you still have questions, you can make an individual appointment.
Which payment methods are available?
You can pay via PayPal or bank transfer.
Will my employer cover the costs?
This is possible – many of our learners clarify the assumption of costs directly with their employer. Whether this also works for you depends on the company. It’s best to ask internally. We will also be happy to help you plan the next steps with your employer.
Just make an appointment.
Master of Science:
Digital Sciences for Transformation
The Master’s degree program Digital Sciences for Transformation (120 ECTS) starts in the winter semester 2025/26 and prepares you specifically for digital management tasks. The program combines theory and practice through real company projects and can be flexibly designed thanks to its modular structure with a mix of online and attendance phases. International partnerships provide you with insights into global developments, while you learn in an interdisciplinary way in exchange with academic and practice experts and develop practical solutions. Prerequisites for admission are a Bachelor’s degree with one year of professional experience or training with at least two years of relevant professional experience, English language skills at B2 level and an entrance test.
Master of Science:
Structure and content
How does the Master's application process work?
You send us your documents – we take a close look at them. If everything fits, you will receive an invitation to the access test. Then it’s a short wait until we let you know whether you’ve been accepted.
You can find out all about our Master’s program here.
How can I apply?
Click here to apply for the Master’s program: Apply Now!
The application deadline for the start of the winter semester 2025/26 is August 31, 2025.
Are there admission requirements for the Master's program?
To complete the Master’s degree with us, you need a Bachelor’s degree with at least one year of professional experience or an vocational training with at least two years of relevant professional experience. You must also have at least B2 level English and pass an entrance test to assess your prior knowledge in the relevant subject areas.
Can I apply for the Master's program even though I am still completing my degree?
Yes, you can apply if you are about to complete your current degree. If you meet all other requirements and succeed in the application process, you will receive conditional admission. After successful completion, the admission requirement is considered fulfilled and is no longer relevant.
Is there an NC?
We do not have a numerus clausus – i.e. an admission restriction based on the final grade of the undergraduate degree. However, our places are limited.
When can I expect an acceptance or rejection for the Master's program?
We are already on hand to advise you during the application process so that you can submit a complete and informative application. First, we check the formal entry requirements. This process can take up to two weeks. If you meet the formal entry requirements, you will be invited to take an entrance test. The overall result will be presented to a selection committee, which will decide on admission. You can contact the Learner-Lifecycle Team at any time during the entire process at lifecycle@scheer-school.com and ask about the current status of your application.
Do I need certain documents for my Master's application?
You must submit the following documents with your application:
- CV
- academic transcripts
- Proof of your English language skills (at least B2) (e.g. TOEFL, Cambridge, school leaving certificate)
- Identification document such as identity card or passport
- Proof of health insurance
How does the access test work?
The entrance test consists of multiple-choice questions and is held in English. To pass, you must answer at least 60% correctly. You have 30 minutes to complete the test. The test is conducted digitally, usually via video call. The subjects areas covered are as follows:
- Statistics (Complex thinking)
- Software development (apply and integrate software)
- Project management (process and data management)
- Business administration (entrepreneurial thinking, new product development and innovative design)
- Law (living and working in a digital society)
Can I have individual certificates recognized for the Master's degree?
Yes, you can have certificates you have already completed at the Scheer School credited towards your Master’s degree.
Do I have to have a certain minimum grade in my Bachelor's degree?
No, you do not have to prove a certain minimum grade in your Bachelor’s degree. However, after completing your Bachelor’s degree, you must also provide proof of at least one year of relevant professional experience.
Do I need a bachelor´s degree?
No, vocational training with at least two years of relevant professional experience is sufficient. In this case, an additional entrance test is carried out. This consists of the assessment of a portfolio and a 30-minute oral examination.
Master of Science:
Language
In which language does the Master's course take place?
The modules are all held in English.
As a German-speaking student, do I also have to prove my language skills in another language?
As our programs are offered in English, proof of English language proficiency (at least level B2) is required. German-speaking students will learn another foreign language (other than English) during the course of their studies.
How can I prove my language skills?
You can enclose proof of your language skills with your application.
Standardized English tests such as TOEFL or IELTS are accepted as well as proof of comprehensive language skills in the form of diplomas or course certificates.
And: language certificates can be submitted later if necessary. So if your certificate is no longer up to date, you can still catch up without missing the start of your studies.
Under what circumstances am I considered a native speaker?
If English is your native language or you have completed your previous education in English, you can be considered a native speaker. Proof of this is required (e.g. degree certificate).
Do I have to know German to study?
No prior knowledge of German is required to start the course. The language of instruction is English and the learning materials are also in English.
You will learn German as a foreign language during your studies and have the opportunity to further develop your language skills through various activities.
What do I do if I already speak fluent German?
In this case, another foreign language is part of your Master’s degree program. Together with the Learner-Lifecycle team, we will find out which one best suits you and your professional goals.
You can also find more information on foreign languages that you can learn as part of your studies on the Saarland University Language Center website.
Can I apply without German citizenship?
Yes, our programs are open to international students. To help you get off to the most relaxed start possible on your learning journey, the Learner-Lifecycle team will support and advise you on questions relating to visas, accommodation, travel and integration at lifecycle@scheer-school.com.
Master of Science:
Tuition fees/financing
How much does the Master's program cost?
You have two payment options:
- 7.250 € per year
- 1.850 € per quarter
Are there funding opportunities for the Master's degree?
Basically, the following applies:
- For the Master’s degree, there is the option of taking advantage of student grants (Bafög)
- You can also find out about scholarships: Scholarship for pupils and students.
- More information: ASTA UdS , Studierendenwerk Saarland
- After individual consultation with your employer, it is possible that the costs for a certificate or the Master’s degree will be covered.
If you still have questions, you can make an individual appointment.
Can I deduct the study costs from my taxes?
Yes, you can generally deduct all costs for training and further education from your taxes.
If the employer covers the costs, you can deduct the travel costs, for example.
Master of Science:
Others
Do I have the option of taking a break from my studies?
Yes, leave of absence are possible.
Do I get a student card?
Yes, you will receive a student card and can use all the facilities on the Saarland University campus, where the Scheer School is located.
Is the degree program officially/internationally recognized?
Yes, our degree programs are system-accredited and quality-assured by Saarland University. This means that the degree is equivalent to a traditional Master’s degree and meets all the requirements of a recognized university degree.
As with all degree programs, recognition abroad depends on the respective country and the responsible authority.
Our programs are also designed to not only meet academic standards, but also to meet industry expectations – providing employers with clear proof of quality.
Is there support for international students?
Yes, we offer support in finding a job in the region, finding accommodation, visa matters and integration into life in Saarland. You can make an appointment with us at lifecycle@scheer-school.com.
more information: Campus Life
Is there any recognition of prior achievements?
The recognition of prior achievements is possible after individual examination.
Unlock the Future
Digital competencies that open doors.
Company
The Scheer School offers companies practical training solutions for digital transformation – tailored, flexible and directly applicable. The aim is to prepare employees specifically for digital challenges such as skills shortages, process inefficiency or the use of AI. With our “Bring your own…” approach, specific company issues are incorporated directly into the learning process. Our programs are developed in close cooperation with practitioners and create real added value. The Scheer School offers companies from the region in particular a strong platform for sharing knowledge, contributing projects and retaining specialists in the Saarland economy in the long term.
What is the Scheer School of Digital Sciences?
Certificates are compact programs that provide you with targeted specialist knowledge and skills. You can collect ECTS points – ideal for later recognition during your studies.
Click here for our program overview.
What does the Scheer School offer?
Self-study, group work and practical projects – all in a flexible blended learning format.
Depending on the topic, the certificates last 4 to 8 weeks and combine online sessions, attendance days (20%) and self-directed learning (80%). This allows you to integrate the certificates perfectly into your everyday life.
The workload is approx. 90 hours for a program duration of 4 weeks or approx. 180 hours for 8-week certificates. You can find a sample weekly schedule on the respective program pages of the certificates.
What makes the Scheer School special?
Depending on the topic and learning objective, a certificate lasts 4 or 8 weeks.
What is the aim of the programs?
The courses are usually held in German, but the learning material is in English. A good understanding of both languages (at least B2 level) is therefore an advantage.
If you feel more comfortable in English, that’s no problem: by individual arrangement, you can take the final exam in English, for example, or use English in your exchanges with teachers and supervisors.
We endeavor to respond flexibly to individual needs in terms of language.
What are the benefits of the Scheer School?
Whether you are an individual or a company – everyone is welcome:
– Do you want to further your personal training? Simply register & get started.
– Companies can book complete courses for their team – customized and flexible.
All students must have a university entrance qualification and B2-level language skills in German or English.
Under Our programs you will find all the information you need and can book an appointment for a non-binding information session.
How does the application process work?
All certificates and study programs are quality-checked and accredited by the system accreditation of Saarland University.
Can companies book individual certificate courses?
No, in order to enable the greatest possible learning success, our certificates are structured in a blended learning format. Around 80% of the content is taught online and asynchronously – ideal for self-study independent of time and place. The remaining 20% takes place in the form of synchronous online sessions and compact attendance phases in Saarbrücken. In this way, we combine maximum flexibility with practical interaction and personal exchange.
