Courses and Exams
University life at TU Dortmund University may work a little differently from what you’re used to. Here’s a quick introduction to course formats, credit points, module handbooks and exams, plus a few things that are especially useful to know when starting your studies at TU Dortmund.
Types of courses
Want to know more about a course?
Found a course that sounds interesting and want to know exactly what to expect? The module handbook provides detailed information about course content, examinations and coursework, as well as participation requirements.
One important thing to remember: Not every course listed in the module handbook is offered every semester or every year. Always check LSF to see which courses are actually taking place in the current semester.
Module handbooks:
University Language 101
A few terms are worth knowing from day one:
CP = Credit Points
One CP corresponds to approximately 30 hours of work, including lectures, exercises and independent study. A semester is structured around earning 30 CP in total.
Especially during your first semester, however, taking on additional courses is not recommended. Depending on your situation, it may even be advisable to start with fewer courses.
Course credit / coursework
Some courses require you to complete certain coursework before you are allowed to take the final examination.
When does my lecture actually start?
Here’s one that can easily confuse newcomers: most courses start 15 minutes after the hour (c.t.), even though the timetable lists them as starting on the hour.
More university terminology: uni ABC
Language courses
Want to improve your German or use your time at university to learn another language?
The zhb at TU Dortmund University offers courses in 13 languages.
Exams
You may not have to register for every class you attend, but you do have to register for your exams via BOSS.
Make sure to register for a written or oral exam at least one week in advance. You can withdraw up to 24 hours before a written exam or one week before an oral exam. Otherwise, the exam will be recorded as a failed attempt unless you provide a doctor’s certificate. For more information, please refer to the examination regulations for your degree program.
Exams can take different forms depending on the course. They may be written or oral exams, presentations, reports, or another form of assessment.
And don’t forget to check the coursework requirements. In some courses, for example, you may only be allowed to take the exam if you have achieved at least 50% of the available homework points.