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| Lectures, Seminars and Classes
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Sometimes confusing for Beginners
There are many different ways to study and teach at German universities: lectures, seminars, and study groups, for instance. But they all have one thing in common, which newcomers often find confusing - events don't always start at the time listed. If it says "c.t." (cum tempore) after the time on a schedule, then the event begins a quarter of an hour after the time listed. So if it says a lecture begins at "12:00 c.t." don't even bother to show up before 12:15 (unless you want to secure your favorite front-row seat in the auditorium). The abbreviation "s.t." is short for sine tempore, and that means that the event starts at the actual time listed.
During lectures, the professor or lecturer speaks and the students take notes. The students are expected to review the material at home. Many professors give additional assignments. In many classes, the information from the lectures can also be discussed in tutorials. Graduate or post-graduate students usually host tutorials, where practice problems are solved and the topics are discussed in more detail.
Faculty and students go over material together in seminars. Many universities have two different types of seminars: Proseminars for students still working on their general education, and other seminars for graduates. In many courses, students are asked to present a report, which is then discussed by the entire class. Certificates of Achievement can be awarded for work in seminars.
Certificates are needed in order to successfully complete a degree. They are proof of participation in a seminar, lecture or practical examination. Audit certificates are awarded for simply being present. Other certificates must be earned through homework, giving a report or taking an examination. The examination regulations for each subject details which certificates you have to have before you can sign up for an intermediate examination or your graduate exams.
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