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FAQs
Concerning the program:| 1. | Is the IR Online Master of Arts degree equivalent to other master degrees offered by the Freie Universität Berlin? IR Online offers a Master of Arts degree that fully corresponds with the standards and demands of all graduate programs offered by the Freie Universität Berlin, as outlined by the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). Furthermore, IR Online is subject to permanent internal and external review procedures in order to guarantee an appropriate level and standard of instruction. |
| 2. | Who are the authors of online modules and study contents? IR Online has invited scholars from various countries to collaborate in the authoring and tutoring of IR Online modules. Thus, IR Online provides a unique opportunity to benefit from the rich expertise of a worldwide network of IR scholars. |
| 3. | How many hours am I required to work for the study program each week? IR Online is structured according to ECTS standards. That means that one credit point is equivalent to 30 hours of individual work with each module consisting of 6 to 10 credit points. We estimate that you need two hours a day to study and to work on your assignments. One advantage of e-education is the possibility of deciding independently on the pace of learning and working. Furthermore, regular vacations are scheduled, allowing for recreation periods. We would like to emphasize, though, that a distance learning program requires a high level of motivation and self-discipline. |
| 4. | Do I get much contact with fellow students and tutors? Although IR Online is predominantly a distance learning program, personal contact is a central element of our education philosophy. Synchronous and asynchronous IT based methods allow for permanent communication among students and tutors, independent of place and time. In addition, we offer a broad range of interactive tools such as discussion boards and non-moderated chat forums for informal exchange. In-house classes constitute a unique opportunity to get in personal touch. Therefore, a considerable amount of time is reserved for discussions and personal exchange. |
| 5. | Where can I get more detailed information on admissions procedures, course content and examination regulations? As with every program of the Freie Universität Berlin, IR Online has been set up by the responsible administrative bodies of the university and approved by the Senatsverwaltung für Wissenschaft, Forschung und Kultur (Department for Science, Research and Culture of the Berlin Senate). |
| 6. | Does a successfully passed intermediate exam suffice as a substitute for a university degree? No, a bachelor or an equivalent university degree is required. The approval of equivalence is to be decided upon a case to case basis and will be subject to close review. |
| 7. | Do I need to submit all transcripts legally attested and in certified translation? All documents have to be legally attested. For further details see Admission. Furthermore, documents must be submitted in certified translation if they are written in any language other than German or English. |
| 8. | Which certificates are accepted as evidence of the required proficiency of English? We accept the following certificates: "Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)" with a minimum score of 550 points (paper-based) or 213 points (computer-based). Alternatively, the "International English Language Testing System" (IELTS) or the "Cambridge Certificate" will also be accepted. |
| 9. | Which documentation do I have to include in order to testify to any relevant work experience? We advise you to include any relevant documents that certify specific work experience in your application. However, no specific requirements concerning certificates of work experience have to be met. |
| 10. | How can I prove my computer skills? In order to complete the study program successfully, you should possess good computer skills and equipment. You will not need to prove your computer skills. |
| 11. | How can I access my study material? To successfully pursue your studies, the learning management system "Blackboard" provides you with easy access to our virtual library and web-based data, including relevant course material and multimedia files designed to support your studies. Participants of the program receive a password that enables them to make use of the learning environment. |
| 12. | What technical requirements does my computer have to meet? The learning management system works best with Windows (98 upward) and the Internet Explorer (5.5 or higher versions). Other system software, particularly MacOs (Apple), and alternative browsers such as Mozilla and Opera, should also meet these standards. In case of any doubt, please contact our webmaster (stefan.hohenberger@fu-berlin.de). We do not want you to become frustrated with e-learning technology and to this means there will always be help if you have a problem with the learning platform. |
| 13. | I work full-time and would find it difficult to take part in all in-house classes. Is it possible to skip one of the on-site instruction periods? No, participation in all in-house classes is mandatory to obtain your Masters degree. We are fully aware of the fact that professional life and in-house classes might not always be easy to combine. In order to facilitate your time-management, you can find the scheduled dates on our website. If there are any problems concerning dates and compatibility with your job, please contact us for individual advice. |
| 14. | How much are the total costs for tuition, in-house classes, living expenses and other costs approximately? Tuition fees for the second run of IR Online (2007-09) amount to 15,300 Euro. Additionally, students have to cover costs arising from in-house periods (travel expenses, room and board) as well as administrative charges (approximately 176 Euro per year). Other expenditures (living costs, insurance etc.) depend on your personal needs and the region you live in. |
| 15. | Where can I get financial support for my studies? The Freie Universität Berlin encourages students to apply for funding and scholarships in their countries of origin or in Germany. Please contact us if we can help you with documentation or letters of recommendation. Further information on funding opportunities can be found at the German Academic Exchange Service. |
Frequently Asked Questions
(photo: Edwin PP www.sxc.hu)
