Flexibility: frequently asked questions
On this page, we answer common questions about flexibility in your studies at HSD Hochschule Döpfer.
In principle, it may be possible to take a break from or suspend your studies at HSD Hochschule Döpfer. Whether a break from studies is possible, and in what form, depends on the specific degree programme, your academic progress and the applicable regulations. A break may, for example, be necessary for personal, health, professional or family reasons.
It is important that you discuss any planned interruption with HSD at an early stage. This will allow us to assess what impact a break might have on your academic progress, examinations, deadlines, fees or the continuation of your studies. Depending on the situation, different procedures or supporting documentation may be required.
In principle, it may be possible to change your mode of study if the relevant degree programme offers different modes of study. These may include, for example, part-time study alongside work, study alongside vocational training, or other organisational options. Whether a change can be implemented in an individual case depends on the degree programme, the student’s academic progress to date and the available framework conditions.
When changing study models, it is usually necessary to check which modules have already been completed, what examination results have been achieved and how the remainder of the course can be organised. Timeframes, the proportion of face-to-face teaching, practical placements or contractual aspects may also play a role. Therefore, a planned change should be discussed as early as possible, rather than at short notice.
If you fail an exam, this does not usually mean automatically that you have to end your studies. Exams can generally be retaken, provided that the applicable examination regulations for the relevant degree programme allow for this. The specific guidelines regarding retakes, deadlines and examination formats are decisive in this regard.
If you fail an exam, you should find out as soon as possible when and in what form you can retake it. Depending on the exam, this may, for example, take the form of a written exam, a term paper, an oral exam, a practical exam or another form of assessment. The course of your studies may also depend on whether an exam is a prerequisite for subsequent modules or practical components.
Yes, prior learning can generally be transferred to HSD Hochschule Döpfer if, following assessment, it is deemed to be equivalent. Transferring credits means that academic achievements, professional qualifications or comparable skills already acquired can be credited towards specific parts of the degree programme. Whether this is possible always depends on the specific degree programme and the supporting documents submitted.
Meaningful documentation is usually required for the assessment of prior learning. This may include, for example, certificates, module descriptions, transcripts, training certificates or certificates confirming that certain content has already been completed. The HSD assesses whether the scope, level and content of prior learning meet the requirements of the degree programme. Only after this individual assessment can a decision be made as to whether you can transfer your credits.
You can transfer your credits to make your studies easier, but it does not replace a blanket exemption from admission requirements or a reduction in the duration of your studies without an examination. If you have any questions regarding your personal prior learning or the submission of suitable supporting documents, the HSD Study Advisory Service will be happy to assist you.
In principle, you can withdraw from your degree programme at HSD Hochschule Döpfer. The exact conditions depend on the contractual and organisational regulations that apply to your degree programme. These may include, amongst other things, notice periods, formal requirements and possible implications for fees, examinations or academic credit already earned.
Before you withdraw from your course, it is advisable to carefully consider your reasons and any possible alternatives. In some cases, taking a break from your studies, having a discussion about how to organise your studies, or seeking individual advisory may be helpful instead of withdrawing. This may be particularly relevant if professional, health, financial or personal reasons are leading you to consider ending your studies.
If you are considering withdrawing, you should seek advisory at an early stage. The HSD Study Advisory Service can help you clarify which steps are required and whether there are alternatives that are better suited to your current situation.
In principle, it is possible to switch between our campuses in Potsdam, Cologne, Regensburg and Hamburg. To change your campus, you must submit an application for a change of campus well in advance. Furthermore, the degree programme you are studying must be offered at your preferred campus.
There is no compulsory attendance for lectures at the HSD. However, we recommend that you attend regularly, as excessive absences could jeopardise your academic success.
Most of our part-time students work on a 70–80 per cent basis alongside their studies. The part-time programme can also be undertaken alongside full-time employment. In our full-time degree programmes, on the other hand, the workload is designed in such a way that a part-time job (e.g. a student job) can easily be combined with your studies.
