Last updated: March 2026

TL;DR: Consecutive programs require a Bachelor's in the same or closely related field and focus on deepening specialization. Non-consecutive programs accept students from different academic backgrounds and enable career changes. Both typically last 1–2 years and are tuition-free at most German public universities. Choose consecutive to specialize, non-consecutive to pivot.

Germany offers a wide range of Master's degree programs, broadly categorized as consecutive and non-consecutive. Understanding the difference is essential for choosing the right program, especially if your Bachelor's degree doesn't directly match your intended Master's field. This guide explains both types and helps you decide which path fits your goals.

What Are Consecutive Degree Programs?

Consecutive programs are designed as a direct continuation of your Bachelor's studies. The Master's curriculum builds on the knowledge and skills from your undergraduate degree in the same or closely related field.

Key Characteristics

• Continuity: The Master's curriculum is a direct extension of the Bachelor's program
• Admission: Requires a Bachelor's degree in the same or closely related discipline
• Duration: 2–4 semesters (1–2 years), typically earning 120 ECTS credits
• Focus: Deepening expertise and specialization in your existing field
• Tuition: Free at most public universities (except Baden-Württemberg: EUR 1,500/semester for non-EU students)

Advantages

• Deep specialization: Become a subject-matter expert with advanced knowledge
• Smooth transition: Curriculum is designed to complement your Bachelor's, minimizing gaps
• Career alignment: Many technical and scientific careers require a specialized Master's for advanced positions
• Stronger research foundation: Better preparation for PhD studies if you plan to continue in academia

Examples

| Bachelor's Degree | Consecutive Master's | |

---|

---| | B.Sc. Mechanical Engineering | M.Sc. Mechanical Engineering | | B.Sc. Economics | M.Sc. Economics | | B.Sc. Computer Science | M.Sc. Computer Science | | B.Sc. Physics | M.Sc. Physics |

What Are Non-Consecutive Degree Programs?

Non-consecutive programs are designed for students who want to pursue a Master's in a field different from their Bachelor's. They enable career pivots and interdisciplinary learning.

Key Characteristics

• Diverse backgrounds: Students come from various academic disciplines
• Admission: Requirements vary widely; professional experience or a different Bachelor's may suffice
• Duration: 2–4 semesters (1–2 years), similar to consecutive programs
• Focus: Interdisciplinary approach, integrating knowledge from multiple fields
• Bridge modules: Some programs require prerequisite courses to fill knowledge gaps

Advantages

• Career change: Ideal for pivoting to a new field without starting over at the Bachelor's level
• Broader skill set: Interdisciplinary training makes graduates versatile across industries
• Professional experience valued: Many programs weight work experience alongside academic credentials
• Innovation potential: Combining expertise from different fields often leads to unique perspectives

Examples

| Bachelor's Degree | Non-Consecutive Master's | |

---|

---| | B.A. Sociology | MBA (Business Administration) | | B.Sc. Biology | M.Sc. Environmental Management | | B.Eng. Electrical Engineering | M.Sc. Data Science | | B.A. Literature | M.A. Digital Humanities |

Side-by-Side Comparison

| Aspect | Consecutive | Non-Consecutive | |

---|

---|

---| | Bachelor's requirement | Same or closely related field | Any field (with relevant prerequisites) | | Admission flexibility | Strict subject match | More flexible, may accept work experience | | Curriculum design | Builds directly on Bachelor's knowledge | May include bridge/foundation modules | | Specialization depth | Deep, focused expertise | Broader, interdisciplinary | | Career path | Advance in your existing field | Pivot to a new field | | Duration | 1–2 years | 1–2 years | | ECTS credits | Typically 120 ECTS | Typically 90–120 ECTS | | Tuition | Free at most public universities | Same as consecutive |

Use our ECTS credit calculator to check how your existing credits map to program requirements.

How to Choose:

Key Considerations

Choose consecutive if:

• You want to specialize further in your current field
• Your career goal requires deep technical expertise (engineering, research, medicine)
• You plan to pursue a PhD afterward
• Your Bachelor's degree directly matches the Master's requirements

Choose non-consecutive if:

• You want to change your career direction
• You've gained professional experience in a different field and want formal qualifications
• You're interested in interdisciplinary work (e.g., combining technology with business)
• Your Bachelor's doesn't match the specific field you want to study at Master's level

Additional Factors

• Market demand: Research which qualification employers in your target industry prefer. STEM fields often favor consecutive specialists; business and consulting value versatile non-consecutive graduates
• Program availability: Browse our programs directory to find both types of Master's programs at German universities
• Admission competitiveness: Consecutive programs at top universities can be highly competitive. Use our German grade calculator to check if your GPA meets typical thresholds
• Financial planning: Both program types have similar costs. See our cost guide for a detailed breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between consecutive and non-consecutive programs?

Consecutive programs require a Bachelor's in the same or related field and deepen your specialization. Non-consecutive programs accept students from different academic backgrounds and allow career pivots or interdisciplinary study.

Can I switch from a consecutive to a non-consecutive program?

Yes, though it depends on the specific program's requirements. You may need to complete bridge modules or demonstrate relevant experience. Check with the university's admissions office for your specific case.

Are non-consecutive programs less respected by employers?

No. German employers value both types equally. What matters is the skills and knowledge you gain. Non-consecutive graduates are often valued for their diverse perspectives, especially in fields like management, consulting, and innovation.

Do both program types lead to the same degree title?

Yes. Both consecutive and non-consecutive programs award the same Master's degree (M.Sc., M.A., M.Eng., etc.). The degree title depends on the field, not the program type. There is no distinction on the degree certificate.

Are there financial differences between the two?

Generally, tuition and funding options are the same. Most German public universities charge no tuition for either type (only semester contributions of EUR 150–400). Private universities set their own fees regardless of program type.

Can international students apply for both types?

Yes. International students can apply for both consecutive and non-consecutive programs, provided they meet admission requirements including academic qualifications and language proficiency (typically IELTS 6.0+ or TestDaF TDN 4 for German-taught programs).