EDUBA

Developing Double-Degree Programmes: Benefits, Conditions and Requirements

Workshop for coordinators from partner universities within the EDUBA project

On 22 September 2026, Hochschule Anhalt hosted a workshop for coordinators from Ukrainian partner universities as part of the EDUBA project. The workshop focused on the development and implementation of double-degree programmes and provided participants with practical insights into the key steps, requirements and coordination processes involved.

Using the newly established English-language Bachelor’s programme “Business Administration” as a practical example, the participants explored the mechanism of developing a double-degree programme from the initial concept to its implementation. The workshop addressed the main stages of programme development, important organisational conditions and requirements, as well as the aspects that need to be considered when coordinating the programme between partner universities.

A particular focus was placed on the role of programme coordinators at the partner universities. The participants discussed the coordinator’s responsibilities in the selection of students interested in participating in a double-degree programme, as well as in their subsequent support and communication throughout the programme. The exchange highlighted the importance of close coordination between partner universities in order to ensure a smooth and transparent process for students.

The Hochschule Anhalt EDUBA coordinators also presented a brief report on the activities of the Centre for Double-Degree Programme Coordination (ZeKoD). The Centre supports students from partner universities throughout their entire journey at Hochschule Anhalt – from the initial interview and submission of admission documents to practical matters related to finding accommodation, visa procedures, registration and health insurance. The presentation provided the partner coordinators with an insight into the comprehensive support structures available to international students at Hochschule Anhalt.

The workshop also offered an opportunity for an open exchange of experiences and questions between the participating Ukrainian universities and Hochschule Anhalt. The discussions demonstrated the importance of coordinated procedures and clear communication in the successful implementation of international double-degree programmes.

At the end of the workshop, participants were informed about the continuation of German language courses and professional skills development activities for students and teaching staff. These activities are intended to further support participants in preparing for international study and teaching environments and to strengthen cooperation between Hochschule Anhalt and its partner universities.

The workshop represents another important step in the development of sustainable cooperation within the EDUBA project and in strengthening the capacity of partner universities to jointly implement attractive and student-oriented double-degree opportunities.

Study trip by students from the partner universities NURE and KPI as part of the EDUBA project

From June 8 to 14, Anhalt University of Applied Sciences hosted a study tour for students from its partner universities, Kharkiv National University of Radio Electronics (NURE) and the National Technical University of Ukraine “Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute” (KPI). The group was accompanied by Prof. Dr. Oleksandr Lemeshko and Prof. Dr. Oleksandra Yeremenko, the project coordinators at NURE.

During their stay, the students gained comprehensive insights into academic life at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences. They attended lectures and hands-on classes in their fields of study and, at the same time, were able to experience the daily life of German students. This included staying in the on-campus dormitory, visiting the cafeteria, and participating in an event at the student club.

The program was complemented by excursions to Köthen, Leipzig, and Dresden, which gave the guests the opportunity to explore the region’s cultural and historical diversity. A special highlight of the week was active participation in the university information day, during which students could learn more about Anhalt University of Applied Sciences, network, and find out about study opportunities in Germany.

In parallel with the student program, Prof. Lemeshko held in-depth working discussions with representatives of the Department of Electrical, Mechanical and Industrial Engineering. Participants in the discussions included Dean Prof. Dr. Johannes Tümler, Vice-Dean for Research Prof. Dr. Marianne Maktabi, the representative of the International Affairs Commission Prof. Dr. Dmitry Kachan, the Degree Program Advisor Prof. Dr. Stefan Twieg, and the EDUBA project coordinator Dr. Maryna Popova.

The meetings focused on the development of a joint English-language double-degree master's degree program in “Communication and Embedded Systems.” As part of this constructive collaboration, important agreements regarding the module structure, ECTS credit transfer, and program duration have already been identified and finalized. This marks a significant milestone on the path to establishing the joint degree program.

The study trip concluded with a joint dinner with graduates of Anhalt University of Applied Sciences. In a relaxed atmosphere, the students took the opportunity to ask numerous questions about the program, life in Köthen, and career prospects after graduation, and to gain valuable first-hand insights.

The EDUBA project continues to contribute to deepening cooperation between the partner universities and creating new opportunities for international mobility and joint educational programs.

New milestone in German-Ukrainian university cooperation: Double-degree program "Business Administration" agreed with OSACEA

© EDUBA Team
Unterzeichnung der Vereinbarung zum Double-Degree-Programm „Business Administration“ durch Prof. Dr. Iryna Stankevych (OSACEA), Hochschulpräsident Prof. Dr. Jörg Bagdahn und Prof. Dr. Christiane Naumann (Hochschule Anhalt).
© EDUBA Team
© EDUBA Team
© EDUBA Team
© EDUBA Team
© EDUBA Team
© EDUBA Team
© EDUBA Team
© EDUBA Team
© EDUBA Team

On 9 May 2026, an agreement was signed between the Department of Economics at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences and the Faculty of Management and Marketing at the Odesa State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture (DIA) (all courses taught in English) as part of the University Information Day (HIT) on Campus Bernburg regarding the introduction of an English-language Bachelor's double-degree program in Business Administration.

The agreement is the result of around six months of intensive preparation and coordination. The technical and organizational coordination of the programme was carried out by Prof. Dr. Christiane Naumann from Anhalt University of Applied Sciences and Prof. Dr. Iryna Stankevych from OSACEA. The new study program will give students the opportunity to gain international study experience and obtain a double degree from both universities.

The signing was accompanied by a two-week study trip, which took place from May 4 to 15, 2026. As part of this trip, a delegation of three OSACEA students, who will be among the first participants in the future double degree program, visited Anhalt University of Applied Sciences. During their stay on Campus Bernburg, the students were able to attend classes, get to know everyday life at the university, talk to students and instructors and experience life on a German university campus first-hand.

A particular highlight was their participation in the University Information Day, where the guests were able to learn about the variety of courses on offer at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences and experience the international orientation of the Department of Economics.

As education at OSACEA is traditionally closely linked to the construction and Real Estate industry, a visit to Campus Dessau was also on the agenda. There, the students gained an insight into the region's traditional architecture and design landscape. A visit to the Bauhaus Museum Dessau rounded off the program and gave an impression of the international significance of the Bauhaus (Building 10 - Dessau) for architecture, urban planning and design.

During their stay at Campus Köthen, the students also took part in the traditional castle festival. The event offered numerous opportunities to get to know German culture, regional traditions and student community life. The exchange with students from Anhalt University of Applied Sciences contributed significantly to gaining cultural experience and making new international contacts.

The signing of the agreement marks an important step for the further internationalization of the Department of Economics and the deepening of cooperation between Anhalt University of Applied Sciences and the Odesa State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture (DIA) (all courses taught in English). Both partner universities see the new double-degree program as a promising basis for the expansion of joint educational and research activities and for the promotion of international student mobility.

Preparing for International Study: Online Information Session for Ukrainian Students Interested in Double-Degree Programmes

On April 13, 2026, an online information session was held for students from Ukrainian partner universities who are interested in participating in double-degree programmes at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences and spending several semesters at one of its campuses in Germany. The session was conducted by Dr. Maryna Popova, EDUBA Project Coordinator.

The meeting provided students with an opportunity to learn more about the conditions and requirements for participation in double-degree programmes, as well as about the steps they need to take to prepare for their future studies at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences.

A particular focus was placed on the importance of German language skills. Even when students participate in English-language double-degree programmes, a basic knowledge of German is highly valuable for everyday life during their stay in Germany. It helps students communicate in everyday situations, deal with administrative matters and become more confident in their new academic and social environment.

As part of the EDUBA project, students were therefore invited to participate in an introductory German language course at level A1. The course is intended to give future participants a practical linguistic foundation before their mobility period at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences.

During the course, students will also have the opportunity to use Speakee, a language-learning service based on the Tolkee platform. The platform was developed by graduates of the double-degree programme between Odesa State Polytechnic University (OPNU) and Anhalt University of Applied Sciences and is designed to support students and lecturers in developing practical oral communication skills.

After completing the course, students will have the opportunity to take an A1-level language examination with the support of Speakee and receive a certificate documenting their level of German.

For future participants of German-language Bachelor’s double-degree programmes, the EDUBA project provides for continued German language learning up to level B2. Students will gradually develop their language skills alongside their academic preparation, allowing them to meet the language requirements of German-taught degree programmes.

Within the framework of the project, students who successfully complete the B2 examination using Speakee will receive a certificate that can be submitted as evidence of their German language proficiency when applying for admission to the corresponding double-degree programme at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences.

The information session marked an important step in preparing prospective double-degree students for their future academic mobility. By combining information on programme requirements with early language preparation, the EDUBA project aims to support students not only in gaining access to international study opportunities but also in successfully adapting to academic and everyday life in Germany.

Management and Networking: Digital Competences in International Education

EDUBA professional development and coaching programme for lecturers from partner universities

From 8 April to 30 May 2026, the EDUBA project implemented a comprehensive professional development and coaching programme entitled “Management and Networking: Digital Competences in International Education” for lecturers from partner universities.

More than 100 participants registered for the programme, with 71 participants successfully completing the full course cycle and receiving certificates.

The programme was based on the original course concept “Digital Transformation: The Power of Blended Learning”, developed by Dr. Halyna Henseruk (Ternopil Volodymyr Hnatiuk National Pedagogical University). The programme combined professional development, practical exchange and coaching activities focused on current approaches to digitalisation and internationalisation in higher education.

As part of the programme, Prof. Dr. Eduard Siemens, Head of the EDUBA project, addressed the topic of international academic partnerships between Ukraine and Germany. His contribution focused on the role of disseminating joint research results through international academic journals and conferences and highlighted opportunities for strengthening academic cooperation through joint research and scientific communication.

Dr. Oksana Vasylenko, Director of the Landesstudienkolleg Sachsen-Anhalt, shared her experience in managing an educational institution whose students come from more than 100 countries worldwide. In her course, “Studienkollegs in Germany as a Tool for the Academic Integration of International Students: The Experience of Landesstudienkolleg Sachsen-Anhalt”, she presented the role of preparatory colleges in enabling international school graduates to meet the requirements for admission to German universities and discussed practical aspects of academic integration.

Dr. Maryna Popova presented current developments in double-degree programmes and new opportunities for international academic cooperation in the context of Ukrainian-German partnerships in higher education. Her contribution focused on the development of joint study opportunities and the organisational framework required for successful double-degree cooperation between universities.

The programme also featured Yuliia Henseruk, PhD student at Ternopil Volodymyr Hnatiuk National Pedagogical University, as a guest speaker. She shared practical experience in using artificial intelligence tools in international postgraduate education, demonstrating how emerging digital technologies can support teaching, learning and international academic activities.

The professional development and coaching programme provided lecturers from partner universities with an opportunity to strengthen their digital competences, exchange practical experience and explore new approaches to international cooperation in higher education. With its combination of digital transformation, academic networking, internationalisation and practical experience, the programme contributed to the further development of cooperation between Ukrainian partner universities and Hochschule Anhalt within the EDUBA project.

A specialized workshop on inclusive teaching and learning took place on March 12, 2026

On March 12, 2026, a specialized workshop on teaching and learning for people with disabilities and fewer opportunities was held. The event was held in a hybrid format and brought together representatives from various Ukrainian universities both onsite and online.

Three representatives from NTUU "KPI" took part in the on-site workshop. Another representative of NTUU "KPI", two representatives of OPNU, one representative of TNPU, three representatives of OSAU, two representatives of DNU, one representative of NURE and one representative of OSACEA participated online.

During the workshop, very important issues related to ensuring barrier-free access to higher education for people with disabilities, as the number of people with disabilities has increased significantly as a result of the war, were discussed. In particular, the following aspects were addressed:

the creation of an inclusive learning environment at universities;
the adaptation of study programs and digital learning resources to the needs of students with different types of disabilities;
the use of assistive technologies and modern digital tools in the educational process;
preparing instructors to work with students with diverse learning needs;
psychological and academic support for students affected by the war;
improving the accessibility of university infrastructure.

A special focus was also placed on ensuring the mobility and safe movement of people with reduced mobility affected by the war. In this context, the role of universities in developing and implementing solutions to improve accessibility in educational and urban spaces was also discussed.

The workshop provided an important platform for the exchange of experiences between the participating universities and for the development of joint approaches to promote inclusive higher education in the face of current social challenges. Participants emphasized the importance of holding such events on a regular basis to share best practices and further promote the development of an accessible and inclusive educational environment.

EDUBA project coordinators take part in the kick-off event of the German-Ukrainian University Network program

On 3-4 December 2025, the coordinators of the EDUBA project took part in the launch event of the German-Ukrainian Higher Education Network (DUHN) programme, organized by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).

The launch event brought together representatives of German and Ukrainian universities and project teams who are committed to expanding sustainable academic cooperation, promoting the internationalization of higher education and strengthening institutional partnerships between Germany and Ukraine. As part of the program, the goals and priorities of the DUHN initiative were presented, experiences from the implementation of joint education and research projects were exchanged and perspectives for further cooperation were discussed.

The participation of the EDUBA coordinators in the kick-off event made it possible to present the project in an international academic context, establish new professional contacts and identify potential for expanding cooperation within the German-Ukrainian university network.

Further information on the event can be found on the DAAD website

Kick-off workshop: Official launch of the EDUBA project successfully held on November 20, 2025

On 20 November 2025, the official launch of the EDUBA project took place at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences (Campus Köthen). The kick-off workshop brought together representatives of Anhalt University, Ukrainian partner universities, project coordinators, lecturers, and students. The event was held in a hybrid format – both on-site and online.

The workshop aimed to introduce the project staff, coordinators, representatives of the partner universities, and the project participants to develop a strategic vision for future cooperation and to define the first steps in designing and implementing joint double-degree programs.

All planned goals were successfully achieved: the participants introduced themselves and their institutions, coordinated joint areas of work, outlined the structure of future study programs, and discussed the next steps for implementation.

An important part of the workshop was the presentation of the Centre for the Coordination of Double-Degree Programmes (ZeKoD). The conceptual foundations of the centre, the operational algorithm for supporting and implementing double-degree programmes, as well as the responsible personnel and the distribution of roles, were presented.

ZeKoD was introduced as a central interface between partner universities, faculties, and students, and is intended to efficiently coordinate the processes of study planning, recognition, mobility, and quality assurance in the future.

The program included:

• Presentations by partner universities and academic departments

Presentation of the first project results of EDUBA

• Thematic contributions on COIL projects and digital teaching approaches

• A workshop on the development of double-degree programmes

• Group work aimed at creating a joint study model

As a result, an initial cooperation framework was drafted, responsibilities were defined, and further steps as well as the format of regular working meetings were agreed upon.

The event concluded with a joint dinner and informal networking, providing participants with the opportunity to strengthen their connections and discuss further details of cooperation.

Meeting on the Coordination of the Double-Degree Programme “International Business” at the Bernburg (Strenzfeld) Campus

On 19 November 2025, an important working meeting took place at the Bernburg (Strenzfeld) Campus of Anhalt University of Applied Sciences as part of the EDUBA – Expanding the Successful German-Ukrainian Educational Network project.

The guest of the meeting was Prof. Dr. Iryna Stankevych, Head of the Department of Management and Marketing at the Odesa State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture. She met with Prof. Dr. Christiane Naumann and Timo Schröder from the Department of Economics at Anhalt University to further advance the development of the joint English-language Bachelor double-degree program “International Business.”

During the meeting, a substantial part of the structural and academic foundations of the future double-degree program was coordinated. Both sides reached a shared academic position and confirmed that the program represents a solid basis for long-term German-Ukrainian cooperation in the field of economics.

Some details still need to be finalised in the coming weeks, but the development process is progressing exceptionally dynamically. This is primarily due to the high motivation, openness, and active involvement of the German side.

The Ukrainian delegation expressed its deep gratitude for the committed collaboration, the atmosphere of mutual trust, and the constructive support provided by the German colleagues. The exchange in Bernburg once again highlighted the strong mutual interest in further developing the quality of economic education and offering students forward-looking international study opportunities.

Presentation of the management approaches of the EDUBA project at an international conference

On October 16, 2025, within the framework of the XVI International Scientific and Practical Conference “Project Management: Project-Based Approach in Modern Management”, held at the Odessa State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture, project coordinator Dr. Maryna Popova delivered a presentation titled “EDUBA Project: Expanding the Successful German-Ukrainian Educational Network through Effective Project Management.”

In her talk, she outlined the background and rationale for the project, presented its main objectives, the project team, and consortium members, and introduced three levels of management — External Project Management, Internal Institutional Management, and Consortium/Partnership Management — implemented through a combination of Waterfall and Agile methodologies.

The proposed approaches are designed to enhance management efficiency, improve project outcomes, and optimize collaboration among consortium partners.

The presentation was of particular interest to colleagues from Ukrainian universities who are beginning their integration into the European academic space. They were especially keen to learn about DAAD-funded project management practices and the methods and tools applied in such initiatives.

The presentation can be viewed here.

Online workshop for consortium members of the EDUBA project: Exchange of experience on the development of Double Degree Programs

On October 8, 2025, an online workshop was held for the members of the consortium responsible for the development and implementation of double degree programs within the EDUBA project.

During the event, Prof. Dr. Svitlana Antoshchuk, Director of the Institute of Computer Systems at Odessa Polytechnic National University, and Dr. Halyna Henseruk, Dean of the Faculty of Physics and Mathematics at Ternopil National Pedagogical University, shared their experience in developing the German-language Bachelor's Double Degree Program "Electrical and Computer Engineering, Internet of Things" with colleagues from partner universities in Ukraine.

Over the one and a half hours the workshop participants shared their experiences, discussed organizational and academic aspects of implementing joint study programs, asked questions and received expert answers.

The event was an important step towards further deepening cooperation between the universities in the consortium and contributed to promoting the quality of education and the international integration of Ukrainian universities.

Anhalt University of Applied Sciences and Ternopil Volodymyr Hnatiuk National Pedagogical University sign agreement on German-language Bachelor double degree program

On 24 September 2025, Anhalt University of Applied Sciences, represented by President Prof. Dr. Jörg Bagdahn, and Ternopil Volodymyr Hnatiuk National Pedagogical University (Ukraine), represented by Rector Prof. Bohdan Buyak, signed an agreement to introduce a German-language Bachelor's double degree program.

The program includes the degree program "Electrical and Computer Engineering, Internet of Things" at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences and the degree programs "Computer Science", "Mathematics " and "Basics of STEM Education" at TNPU. The aim of this cooperation is to sustainably increase the quality of education for graduates by pooling resources and taking into account the educational standards of both countries.

The Bachelor's double degree program is based on the certified and accredited degree programs of both universities. Students who successfully complete the program will receive academic degrees from both universities.

In addition to the two university managements, the signing ceremony was also attended by other representatives from both institutions, including Prof. Dr. Uta Seewald-Heeg (Vice-President for International Affairs and Gender Equality), Anne Beer (Head of the International Office), Prof. Dr. Marc Enzmann (Dean of the Department of Electrical, Mechanical and Industrial Engineering), Prof. Dr. Eduard Siemens (Program Coordinator), Prof. Dr. Dmitry Kachan (Head of International Cooperation of the Department), Dr. Maryna Popova (Coordinator of the project "EDUBA - Strengthening the Successful German-Ukrainian Educational Network") and Galyna Buyak (Deputy Head of the Department of Education, Vocational Training, Science and International Cooperation, Ternopil).

The event also discussed prospects for closer cooperation, student exchanges and the development of further double degree programs.

EDUBA launched: 25 years of cooperation - a new phase of the German-Ukrainian academic network

On September 19, 2025, the online kick-off meeting of the project EDUBA - Successful German-Ukrainian Education Network Expansion took place. The start of a new cooperation phase brought together representatives from Anhalt University of Applied Sciences and seven Ukrainian partner universities.

Project manager Prof. Eduard Siemens emphasized that the launch of EDUBA continues the long-standing tradition of joint work: The first partnership was established more than a quarter of a century ago, and some collaborations have been in place for over ten years. On this basis, successful DAAD-funded initiatives have been implemented, including DigIn.Net (Programme Supporting the Internationalization of Ukrainian Universities, 2019-2024) and DigiJED (Programme Ukraine digital: Ensuring Student Success in Times of Crisis, 2022-2025).

The Head of the International Office, Ms. Anne Beer, spoke about the international perspective of the cooperation. She expressed the hope that students, early career researchers and lecturers at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences would soon be able to visit the Ukrainian partner universities and meet their colleagues on site as part of academic exchanges.

The two-hour presentation by project coordinator Dr. Maryna Popova and the team (Kateryna Demianenko, Kateryna Shulakova) was dedicated to the central goals of EDUBA, the long-term implementation steps and the concrete plans until the end of the year.

The meeting ended with a lively discussion: participants raised questions and suggestions that will be discussed at the next coordinators' meeting. The project has thus officially moved from idea to implementation.