Internships
Internship information
Internship and project modules – What you need to know
- Different handling depending on the degree programme
Each degree programme at the Institute of Slavic Studies evaluates the internship differently. Some receive a traditional grade, others only a ‘pass’ or ‘fail’. - Responsible contact persons:
- Dr. Aksana Braun is responsible for advising and grading all internship/project modules, except for the Bachelor's/Master's programmes in ICB and GuK.
- ICB and GuK (M.A., with a major in Eastern European History): Here, you must contact the respective professors who are responsible for the module (see module descriptions on the degree programme pages). They will provide you with the specific assessment guidelines and are available to answer any questions you may have about the content.
- General procedure
- Check the module description – On the respective degree programme page, you will find further links and information on scope, formalities and the type of assessment.
- Complete internship preparation if your degree programme requires it (e.g. Slavic Studies, Russophone Studies). These events (workshops and seminars) are often offered by the Career Service of the ZfbK.
- Write your report – Please note the required number of pages and formal requirements (e.g. 8–12 pages for Russophone Studies B.A., 20 pages for ICB M.A.).
- Submit your application for recognition to the Examination Office and enclose the necessary documents (participation certificate). You can obtain the certificate of participation from Dr Aksana Braun
- Overview of assessment methods
- Graded (e.g. Slavic Studies, History and Cultural Studies): The grade for the internship report accounts for 100% of the module grade.
- Pass/Fail (e.g. ICB, Russophone Studies): The report must meet the minimum requirements; no grade is awarded.
- Voluntary internship in ISE M.A.: Depending on the module chosen, the performance can be assessed as an internship report, language certificate or oral presentation.
- Important deadlines
Allow sufficient time to attend the A1 preparation course, secure an internship and submit all applications on time. Most funding programmes and recognition processes require applications to be submitted 3-6 months before the start of the internship. - Where to get help
- Dr Aksana Braun (for all courses at the institute except ICB and GuK) – Advice on formalities, assessment criteria and applications.
- ICB and GuK professors (major in Eastern European History) – Subject-specific questions about the internship module, assessment and content.
- Career Service ZfbK – Workshops, internship placement and career tips.
In short: first check the module description for your degree programme, contact the appropriate person and follow the steps outlined above to successfully complete your internship and have it recognised correctly. Good luck! 😊
Information sheet on the internship module
Information about internships abroad
An internship abroad is an exciting alternative or addition to studying abroad: you gain initial professional experience in international teams, get to know the working world of another country and expand your specialist knowledge.
Recognition & credit points
- Internships can be recognised with ECTS points (typically 5–15 CP) provided that proof of learning and examination (e.g. internship report) is provided.
- Recognition is granted by the Examination Office; a prior application and the approval of the respective department are required.
Financing
- Erasmus mobility grant
- DAAD PROMOS for internships outside the Erasmus network
- BAföG for studying abroad is possible if the eligibility criteria are met (higher rates than in Germany)
- Further scholarships and financing options can also be found here.
Application process
- Find an internship position (through partner institutions, your own research or internship exchanges).
- Obtain an internship contract or confirmation from the host institution.
- Fill out the learning agreement (for Erasmus internships) at the International Office and have it signed by both parties.
- Submit an application for recognition (ECTS representative of the department) and, if applicable, a funding application (Erasmus portal, DAAD online application).
- Submit proof of insurance (health and accident insurance, liability insurance if applicable).
Language requirements
- Depending on the destination country and type of internship, a minimum level (often B1/B2 of the CEFR) is required.
- Proof can be provided in the form of recognised language certificates or internal examinations.
Insurance & safety
- Mandatory: valid health insurance (EU-wide or private international health insurance).
- Recommended: additional accident and liability insurance.
- Information on the security situation and emergency contacts is available from the International Office
Deadlines
Contact
The International Office is the central point of contact for questions about internships, learning agreements and funding.