General

1. What kind of graduate programs are offered by the GGL?
2. What is my advantage to participate in graduate programs as opposed to performing my doctoral project (dissertation) without the additional teaching?
3. Is English the only spoken language in the graduate programs?

Research

How can I select the research topic for my dissertation?

Teaching

1. How much time is spend for teaching?
   
2. What kind of teaching is offered in the graduate programs?

Application

1. When can I apply for the graduate programs of the GGL?
   
2. What are the costs of the program?
   
3. Can I get a stipend?

What kind of graduate programs are offered by the GGL?
GGL offers programs of its own in the various Sections (see there) and also specialized programs in associated Research Training Groups and the PhD-Program of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine. Note that different application dates may apply for these special associated programs.

What is my advantage to participate in graduate programs as opposed to performing my doctoral project (dissertation) without the additional teaching?
To date, it is not a must but a privilege to participate in special graduate programs. Usually, students are particularly selected for these programs. If admitted, they have unusual support and opportunities for experiences in scientific cooperation. In these programs, exceptionally enthusiastic students meet exceptionally motivated teachers!

Is English the only spoken language in the graduate programs?
Yes, all teaching is in English. Foreigners with fluent English can therefore take full advantage of these programs. They are advised, however, to make early use of courses of German, since this will permit them to communicate freely with their social environment.

How can I select the research topic for my dissertation?
Usually, projects are announced by the specific graduate programs at regular intervals. If you presently do not find such announcements, you may contact faculty members of the GGL and ask for coming projects. Before doing so, you may search for their publications in PubMed. If you are in Giessen or nearby, make an appointment with the faculty member of interest.

How much time is spend for teaching?
In most programs you spend 80-100 hours per year in lectures, seminars and courses. This amounts to three hours per week during teaching terms. Practical courses are usually offered as full day events. The teaching is tailored mostly to your research interests.

What kind of teaching is offered in the graduate programs?
Typically, seminars are held once a week, practical courses one or two weeks per year, and one retreat per year with special guests and your progress report.

When can I apply for the graduate program of the GGL?
Vacancies in the GGL are advertised each semester. Contact this website regularly! For advance planning, you may also contact individual faculty members whose work you find interesting.

What are the costs of the program?
On an international scale, payments to the university (tuitions) are very low. They follow university regulations and may amount to a total of 1500 Euro per year. These costs do not include accommodation. Most students stay in privately rented rooms or flats.

Can I get a stipend?
Yes, you may. Actually, most students in the GGL and its associated graduate programs are supported by individual stipends. You should ask your future supervisor for opportunities. Stipends may range from 500 to 1000 Euro per month. Some students are also paid for mini-jobs in teaching (Hilfskraft).