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Biology

Teaching at Secondary Schools (L2)

Important information at a glance

Degree: L2 - Teaching at secondary schools (Hauptschule and Realschule)Language of Instruction: GermanStart of studies: Winter semesterAdmission: NC (restricted admission)Standard period of study:

Guiding Principles for the School Subject of Biology

  1. Biology is the science of life, exploring everything from molecular foundations to interconnected ecosystems. At its core are living organisms: humans, animals, plants, fungi, and bacteria.
  2. Biology delves into the unique phenomena and processes of life—the diversity of living beings and their origins, the principles governing their structure, function, and life processes, the role of evolution in shaping structure and function, the dynamic complexity of biological systems, the variety of habitats, and the interactions between organisms and their living and non-living environments.
  3. Biology contributes to a scientific understanding of the world. By studying life, we recognize that humans are part of nature, and our survival is closely tied to the existence of other living organisms and the environment. Biology classes help young people develop a deeper sense of self-awareness and their place in the natural world.
  4. In addition to teaching biological knowledge, biology instruction introduces students to the ways of thinking and working within biology as a distinct natural science. It emphasizes inquiry-based and problem-solving learning, teaches biological methods and concepts, encourages precise scientific work, and highlights the importance of critically analyzing results. Developing and applying models fosters abstract thinking and creativity, which students practice through diverse examples.
  5. Advances in biology and medicine, along with their technological applications, increasingly shape our society. Biology lessons incorporate current biological phenomena, discoveries, and applications, including discussions on bioethical issues.
  6. The knowledge gained in biology class promotes responsible and sustainable interactions with nature. Modern biology education includes environmental education, encouraging students to take action and develop skills for protecting and conserving the environment. Interdisciplinary approaches to environmental education and other cross-cutting societal topics—such as health promotion and sex education—are also important goals.

ABL Information

Detailed information about the teacher education programs can be found on the LeOn (Teaching Online) information platform of the Academy for Educational Research and Teacher Education (ABL).

Application Process and Admissions

This degree program has restricted admission (NC) within the university. Admission is determined through a process where 20% of the spots are allocated based on waiting time and 80% based on the average grade of your higher education entrance qualification. Waiting time refers to the period between completing your high school diploma and applying for the program (excluding any time spent studying).

Admission spots for this degree program are allocated through a separate selection process. In this process:

  1. The total score from your higher education entrance qualification is weighted by a factor of 0.66, and  
  2. The average score from the grades earned in the last four semesters in science subjects (Biology, Chemistry, and Physics) as well as Mathematics—including final exam scores—is weighted by a factor of 0.34.

You can easily apply through Goethe University’s application portal within the specified application deadline. During the online application process, you’ll find out if any supporting documents are required and which ones need to be submitted.

Study regulations

The study regulations outline the structure, organization, and content of the degree program, as well as the examination process. They serve as the foundation for your studies at Goethe University.