Credit Recognition

In principle, credits earned elsewhere can be recognized as part of your P&CS Master’s programme. This may apply, for example, if you spend a semester abroad or transfer to P&CS from another Master’s programme. In all cases, you must apply for credit recognition through our e-learning course (LINK) by submitting the relevant forms. 

Semester Abroad 

Please find further information here (LINK).

Credit Transfer from Programs within the University of Bayreuth

If you transfer from a related program at the University of Bayreuth, such as Computer Science, existing module connections may simplify the recognition process. Where such connections have already been established, you can usually request the transfer directly through the Examination Office. You may still use the forms provided in the e-learning course.

If you wish to transfer credits from courses that have not yet been linked to P&CS modules, you must apply for recognition in the same way as for externally acquired credits, i.e., by submitting your request through the e-learning course. 

If you are unsure which procedure applies, submit your documents through the e-learning course. The Examination Board will then review your application and determine the appropriate recognition procedure. 

Credit Transfer from Other Programmes

If you are transferring from a degree program outside the University of Bayreuth, for example from another Master’s program in Germany that you have already studied in for one or more semesters, you must apply for credit recognition through the e-learning course using the relevant forms. The Examination Board will review your application and determine which credits can be recognized.

General Notes

All applications for credit recognition must be submitted before you register for an examination in the module concerned. The only exception is the Specialization module, where multiple examinations may be taken.

If you wish to have credits recognized that you acquired before starting the P&CS program, you should apply for recognition shortly after beginning your studies and no later than December of your first year.

Please note that for every 30 ECTS credits recognized, you will be placed one semester higher. For example, if you begin your studies in the winter semester 2027/28 and have 60 ECTS credits from a previous degree programme recognized, you will already be considered to be in your fourth semester in the summer semester 2028. This may have implications for your visa and may also affect when you are expected to write your Master’s thesis and complete your degree.

Credit recognition cannot be reversed. Before applying, you should therefore carefully consider what you want to gain from the P&CS Master’s program and which courses you definitely want to take together with your cohort in Bayreuth.

Please also note that credits for foundational modules can only be recognized if the courses completed elsewhere are strictly equivalent to the corresponding P&CS modules. This requirement ensures that all P&CS students share a common foundation of knowledge in both philosophy and computer science.