Rostock: Junior students are off to a brilliant start into the 2025 summer semester!

Rostock: Junior students are off to a brilliant start into the 2025 summer semester!

The 2025 summer semester has ushered in an exciting chapter for the young talents at the University of Rostock. The first face-to-face meeting of 150 junior students took place on March 15th. This group, consisting of students aged 16 and over, uses the opportunity to deepen their personal interest in various subjects or simply to experience practical testing. The junior course, which has been initiated by the Faculty of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering since 2008, is enjoying growing popularity.

A total of 314 students from Germany, Bolivia and Turkey have registered for the current semester. The age group of junior students is predominantly between 16 and 18 years, with even a twelve-year-old student choosing the “Physics for Medical Studies” course. Medical subjects are particularly in demand, while the teacher training course “Introduction to Social Psychology” attracts the most participants with 37 registrations.

Diverse study options

The University of Rostock currently offers 28 online lectures from almost all fields of study. The topics covered include general anatomy, imperative programming and philosophical aspects of economics. The teaching format is dual: lectures are provided as recordings and experienced students provide individual support.

Face-to-face meetings usually only take place at the beginning of the semester and for practical exercises. The classes themselves take place primarily online, which offers flexibility for junior students. The advantages of the junior course include the early testing of professional interests and the opportunity to have exams recognized as preliminary achievements. Every semester, between 300 and 500 students choose this innovative study format at one of the largest early study providers in Germany.

Easy access and support

A key aspect of junior studies is easy access. Students can take part from the 10th grade onwards, and in exceptional cases even earlier, for example if they are gifted. There is no selection process required, just a completed registration form that must be uploaded to the registration portal. The students gain insights into the field of study of their choice, which is crucial for identifying their interests and inclinations.

A targeted approach to the strengths and interests of the participants enables valuable support in the transition from school to university. After successful participation, a certificate of participation will be issued, which can also help students with subsequent applications. Current events include the event on renewable energy technology, which covers energy storage technologies, as well as a course on internal combustion engines, which provides basic insights into the structure and functioning of engines.

The next registration date for the winter semester 2023/24 begins on August 14th, with a registration deadline of October 1st. When enrolling, the form must be signed by students and their legal guardians as well as teachers. For those interested, a step-by-step enrollment video is available that explains the necessary steps.

The University of Rostock's cooperation with 30 schools that recognize achievements from junior studies shows the institution's commitment to promoting students and supporting them on their educational path. The proactive support and the wide range of offerings make the junior course a valuable opportunity for inquisitive young people.