In his video message on July 17, 2020, Prof. Alexander von Birgelen, Hochschule Geisenheim University's Vice President of Student & Academic Affairs, already pointed out the uncertain situation that is expected for the winter semester 2020/21.
Many students are now questioning the financial necessity of their physical presence in Geisenheim, and we would therefore like to give you some information regarding the current planning status. As with everything at the moment, of course, we may need to completely revise these plans according to the further development of the pandemic situation. Nevertheless, we hope that the winter semester 2020/21 can be as follows.
The general rule for lectures in all B.Sc. and M.Sc. programs, as in the summer semester 2020 will be: online wherever possible!
Unfortunately, the hygiene and distance requirements for lectures, some of which have more than 150 participants, do not allow any other approach. Even in our largest lecture hall (200 seats) only 32 seats may be allocated. However, experience from the summer semester has shown that eLearning formats can be used very effectively.
We are currently developing detailed plans, in full compliance with hygiene regulations, for the practical exercises and projects, which are an integral part of our practice-oriented degree programs. These plans are based on small groups where students can continue to develop skills in the professional areas in the best possible 'hands-on' way.
It is very important to us that all our new and returning students, are here in Geisenheim to take part in whatever face-to-face classes are organized. Internships, practical exercises and similar teaching formats usually require attendance rates of 75 to 80 % in order to complete them successfully. The curricula and the module manuals of the individual degree programs will give you more details about which courses this involves.
As soon as the planning of the individual timetables of the degree programs is finished - around mid-October - these will be available online.
Above all, we want to make it possible for our new, first-semester students to start their university lives with as much attendance time as possible. We know that the social components of studying, the exchange with fellow students, getting to know the lecturers and the campus are very important, and we look forward to welcoming you here in Geisenheim on the University Introduction Days, October 28 to 30, 2020.
