FAQ

• How do I register for a certificate programme?
• What are the chances of being admitted to a certificate programme?
• When is the best time to start a certificate programme?
• Are all the courses offered every semester?
• Do the certificates cost anything?
• Do I have to do the certificate courses in a specific order?
• Can I just do parts of a certificate programme?
• Can you start a certificate programme while doing your Bachelor’s and then continue it during a Master’s?
• I am interested in a certificate programme but will be completing my studies soon. What should I do?
• Do the certificate credits count towards my degree?
• I have already earned the maximum number of key competency credits. Can I still take part in a certificate programme?
• When do I get my certificate? Who issues it?
• Can a certificate help pave the way to a career?
• How can I present a certificate in my job application files?
• Where can I get advice about certificate programmes?


How do I register for a certificate programme?
Usually you register using FlexNow. You can also just register for one module as a taster, and then register for the certificate programme if you find it interesting.
You can find details of how to register for each certificate programme under “More information”.
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What are the chances of being admitted to a certificate programme?
Generally the chances are good. However, it can be hard to get a place on some of ZESS’ certificate modules.
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When is the best time to start a certificate programme?
That is a highly personal decision. If you are interested in a certificate, we recommend you try a module from the certificate programme as soon as possible. The Student Advisory Service of your faculty will also be happy to help you decide the right time in your studies.
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Are all the courses offered every semester?
No, some certificate courses are only offered in the summer or winter semester. Please bear this in mind when you are making plans.
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Do the certificates cost anything?
Usually you will have to pay a contribution towards the cost of production of the certificate. At ZESS the cost is €20.
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Do I have to do the certificate courses in a specific order?
This is determined by the relevant certificate programme regulations. Many certificate programmes have a basic module which has to be completed first, and almost all certificates end with a final module.
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Can I just do parts of a certificate programme?
Yes, modules can also be taken individually and credited as key competency modules, so you can also decide to complete the certificate programme later.
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Can you start a certificate programme while doing your Bachelor’s and then continue it during a Master’s?
There is no problem with starting a certificate programme while doing your Bachelor’s degree and completing it during a Master’s degree.
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I am interested in a certificate programme but will be completing my studies soon. What should I do?
In some cases it can be worthwhile to prolong your studies for a certificate programme, in order to prepare for your entry into professional life. We recommend talking to one of the advice services listed below about this.
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Do the certificate credits count towards my degree?
Yes, the certificate credits count towards your elective key competency modules or other electives. Modules in excess of this can be credited as “voluntary additional modules”.
Important: The Faculty of Economic Sciences’ degree programmes have an upper limit for voluntary additional modules!
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I have already earned the maximum number of key competency credits. Can I still take part in a certificate programme?
Yes, this is usually possible if enough places are available. Any additional certificate programmes taken can then be listed in the degree certificate under “voluntary additional modules”.
Important: The Faculty of Economic Sciences’ degree programmes have an upper limit for voluntary additional modules!
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When do I get my certificate? Who issues it?
You can find information about this on the relevant certificate website or in the relevant certificate regulations. Certificates are usually issued with the degree certificate. If you need documentation before this for a job application, please contact the person in charge of your certificate programme. You can also create a record of your credits at any time via FlexNow.
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Can a certificate help pave the way to a career?
Employers are usually interested in skills that go above and beyond specialist knowledge. You can use a certificate to show that you have more in-depth experience of a specific area of expertise and therefore have an additional qualification that could distinguish you from other applicants. Many certificates also include a practical section that can pave the way to work experience/a traineeship and also benefits you when applying for jobs.
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How can I present a certificate in my job application files?
Certificates are a qualification that should always be included in your CV. Depending on a certificate’s relevance to the job you are applying for, it may also be worth mentioning it in the cover letter for your application. You can obtain individual advice about this from the Career Service. (Check Your Job Application Papers)
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Where can I get advice about certificate programmes?
Your faculty’s study advisor can help you with general questions (e.g. whether a certificate can be credited or is beneficial to your ongoing studies and career plan).
For specific questions about a certificate programme we recommend you speak to the contact person named on the relevant certificate website.
The Career Service can also help you with your career plan.



• Your faculty’s study and examination advisors: Study and examination advisors can explain and make recommendations about the different ways your degree programme can be organised and which modules can count towards the area of professionalisation.


• Central Student Advisory Service: The Central Student Advisory Service can advise you on planning your personal educational path and help you choose the right options to refine your profile.


• Career Service:The Career Service can help you with planning your career.


• ZESS and other institutions that offer certificate programmes: The relevant contacts can give you information on their certificate programmes. You can find their details under the “More information” button for each certificate programme.

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