22.09 On what legal basis is the “dual” profile characteristic reviewed? (Section 12(6), (7) MRVO)

Dual study programmes are so-called study programmes with a “special profile.” According to § 12(6) MRVO, study programmes with a special profile “have a self-contained study programme concept that appropriately reflects the special characteristics of the profile.” The “specific characteristics” of the “dual” profile are outlined in Section 12(7) of the MRVO. It states: “A study programme may be designated and advertised as ‘dual’ if the learning locations (at least a higher education institution and a company) are systematically integrated with one another in terms of content, organization, and contractual arrangements.” The “dual” profile characteristic is thus definitively defined in the MRVO, unlike other specific profile characteristics.

The definition of the profile characteristic “dual” pursuant to Section 12(7) of the MRVO has been adopted unchanged into the state regulations of 14 states to date. This definition also applies to the State of Bavaria. However, Section 12(7) of the Bavarian Study Accreditation Ordinance (BayStudAkkV) further specifies the requirements for a “systematic integration of content across learning locations.” See FAQ 22.13 for more information.

It is possible that the respective state higher education law contains specific provisions regarding dual study programs. The relevant states have reviewed the state accreditation ordinance to ensure it is consistent with the higher education law, so that no contradictions arise.