StudiumPLUS

Jonas Schmitt studied Mechanical Engineering at Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences while simultaneously completing vocational training as an industrial mechanic at Schaeffler. For him, our StudiumPLUS Apprenticeship program was the perfect way to combine a degree with vocational training. He is currently in his first semester of his master’s program and continues to be supported by Schaeffler. Find out why he recommends StudiumPLUS and what tips he has for prospective students. 

1. What do you find special about StudiumPLUS?
The combination of studying at Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences, with a high degree of flexibility and independence, and gaining practical experience in an internationally operating company.

2. How did you apply?
Through Schaeffler’s online portal, followed by an assessment, and finally enrollment at the university.

3. How does/did StudiumPLUS work?
At Schaeffler, StudiumPLUS alternates regularly between theory and practice. The program starts with a six-month training phase, followed by the first university semester, during which students attend lectures with all other Mechanical Engineering students and take exams at the end of the semester. This means lectures are attended at the university, while semester breaks, practical phases, and the bachelor semester are spent at the company. Annual vacation can be scheduled outside lecture and exam periods.

In the initial practical phases, the focus is on training, such as learning to operate lathes and milling machines. Students also work in several production departments at the site (hardening, stamping, assembly, etc.). Later, tasks with an engineering focus are taken on, for example in design, production, testing, or prototype development. In addition, there is usually the opportunity to work abroad at one of Schaeffler’s global sites.

4. I would choose StudiumPLUS again because…
…it represents the perfect combination of practical experience, theory, and student life, along with financial support. On one hand, there is the university, where you organize yourself independently, choose specialization courses and electives according to your interests, and connect with other students. On the other hand, there is the time at the company, where you work on interesting and challenging tasks and build a network.

5. What characterizes a typical StudiumPLUS graduate?
In my opinion, there is no typical graduate, as everyone has their own ideas about life after graduation and can set their own focus during studies. However, some advantages that all students gain from the program include excellent practical understanding, outstanding job prospects, and, above all, a large network built through work in many different departments.

6. My tips for prospective StudiumPLUS students:
Vocational training is an important part of StudiumPLUS, and this also means getting your hands dirty—whether at the workbench in the training workshop or on a machine in production. For anyone who doesn’t mind this—or ideally even enjoys it—StudiumPLUS is a fantastic way to enter professional life.