The primary goal of the programme is to provide students with the qualifications for a degree in teaching, which is required for teaching at state schools. The course of studies expands on knowledge and understanding of subjects studied, i.e., about 50% of the curriculum are devoted to two specific disciplines relevant to secondary schools (e.g., Mathematics, English, German or other Languages or humanities disciplines), about 50% of the curriculum is devoted to didactics, curriculum and instruction, teaching practice in schools, educational psychology and learning sciences.
The goal is to impart in-depth knowledge of the following areas: teaching, education, assessment and innovation. Graduates possess instrumental and systemic skills that allow them to make use of their knowledge in new and unfamiliar situations related to the subjects studied and to integrate their knowledge and deal with complexity. The course of studies also qualifies graduates for occupations in institutions, organisations and associations in the public or private educational sector.
During their studies, students learn about the theory and practice of teaching and learning, especially about the systematic, historical and international aspects of literacy and education. Additionally, general didactics and methods of instruction are taught. Knowledge of institutional requirements at different types of schools providing different kinds of education, as well as their relevance to the development of schools and instruction are also part of the
programme. Opportunities for individual specialisation are given (cf. ‚Zeugnis über Modulprüfungen‛ for subjects). The programme concludes with the “Erste Staatsprüfungâ€.