A dual study programme combines academic training at a university with structured practical phases in a company or public institution. Students alternate between theory and practice phases, earn a university degree (bachelor or master) and accumulate several years of work experience.
Common models are training-integrated studies (with an additional recognised vocational qualification), practice-integrated studies (with longer practice phases but without vocational training), employment-integrated models (alongside an employment contract) and part-time studies for already employed professionals.
Benefits are strong practice orientation, short overall duration, early networking in the company, pay during studies and often transition offers. Drawbacks are heavy workload, limited freedom in choosing study topics and contractual ties – often with repayment clauses if students do not stay after graduation.
In the German public sector, dual study programmes are firmly established in administration, police, tax and social services. Lunigi plays a role after graduation: matching AI-safe roles for graduates with a dual background.