Study Abroad: Learning Agreements

Recognition of Courses Taken Abroad

In order for credit from courses taken during a study abroad to be recognized, students must complete a WiSo “Learning Agreement” with the respective chair before their stay abroad.  A detailed overview of the process is available from WiSo Office of International Relations at: Recognition of Study Achievements Abroad.

Further information about studying abroad can be found online at the WiSo Office for International Relations and at the FAU Office of International Affairs.

Learning Agreements with the Chair of Social Policy are applicable to the following FAU WiSo modules:

• 86143 “Study abroad module: Economics I” (Ökonomisches Auslandsmodul I)
• 86144 “Study abroad module: Economics II” (Ökonomisches Auslandsmodul II)

Procedure for course recognition and issuance of Learning Agreements at the Chair of Social Policy (Prof. Wrede)

1. Check if the course you wish to take during your study abroad has already been recognized by the Chair of Social Policy:
   • See our list of approved courses here: Existing Learning Agreements April 2025.
   • Additionally, for the jointly-taught course “Wirtschaft und Staat” you can contact the Chair of Public Finance (Prof. Büttner) for their previously-recognized courses.
2. If the course is already included on our list of existing Learning Agreements:
   • Complete the WiSo “Learning Agreement” form and email it to our administrative office (wiso-sozialpolitik-office@fau.de). The current version of the Learning Agreement form is available online from the WiSo Office of International Relations.
   • This contact for questions at the Chair of Social Policy is: Elisa Poletto, M.A. (elisa.poletto@fau.de)
3. If the course is NOT on our list of existing Learning Agreements:
   • When choosing a course to take abroad, consider the course content and competencies being taught. An ECONOMICS approach is required in order for the Chair of Social Policy to recognize the course! Also, a study abroad course that overlaps more than marginally with a course offered at the FAU WiSo cannot be recognized as Study Abroad Module: Economics I or II.
   • Complete our Application for Recognition of Study Abroad Achievements (in German) and send it with the relevant course information via Email to Elisa Poletto (elisa.poletto@fau.de). Include course information such as the module description, syllabus, bibliography, and translations (plus foreign language originals), etc., if applicable. Unfortunately, in the case of missing course information/documents, we will not be able to review the course.
   • After our chair reviews the submitted form and course information, you will receive an email from the chair informing you if the conclusion of a Learning Agreement for the specific course is possible.
   • If you have questions, contact Elisa Poletto (elisa.poletto@fau.de) at the Chair of Social Policy.
4. If and when approved, the fully signed Learning Agreement will be sent to the applicant via email by Elisa Poletto.
5. All further steps (also after returning from abroad) are explained on the homepage of the WiSo Office of International Relations, where you can also find the required forms.

PLEASE NOTE: You are responsible for ensuring that the credited course is compatible with the examination regulations of your degree program and the requirements of your area of study.