Shortened Training Period for Abitur Graduates
With an Abitur, the regular training period in many professions can be reduced by six to twelve months. Graduates who already have a solid educational background and foundational knowledge in certain subjects can often obtain such a reduction upon application to the relevant chamber. Professions where a reduction is common include commercial and technical fields. Completing a qualification in a shorter training period is an attractive option for those who wish to enter the workforce quickly.
Commercial Apprenticeships
The commercial sector offers a variety of apprenticeships that are particularly suitable for Abitur graduates, as they often require analytical thinking and economic understanding. Popular professions include industrial clerk, bank clerk, wholesale and foreign trade clerk, and e-commerce merchant. Commercial training encompasses both practical work in the company and theoretical content taught at vocational school. For Abitur holders, there are often dual study programs in these fields that lead to an academic degree.
Technical Apprenticeships
Technical professions like industrial mechanic, mechatronics technician, electronics technician, or IT systems electronics technician are popular options for those interested in science or mathematics. These apprenticeships are often demanding and require technical understanding as well as problem-solving skills. There are often additional qualifications or specialized further training that can be completed alongside the apprenticeship or afterwards to enhance career prospects.
Medical and Nursing Apprenticeships
For graduates aiming for a career in healthcare, medical and nursing apprenticeships are available, including health and nursing care professional, medical assistant, or physiotherapist. With an Abitur, they may in some cases expect shortened training periods or greater advancement opportunities. It is also possible to specialize afterwards through advanced training in specific areas such as intensive care or anesthesia.
Craft Apprenticeships
Craft professions offer interesting career opportunities and include apprenticeships like carpenter, joiner, plant mechanic, or automotive mechatronics technician. In the crafts sector, there is also the possibility to advance as a master craftsman or through specialized further training. Abitur holders with practical aptitude and interest in manual work can complete solid vocational training in these professions, offering long-term entrepreneurial prospects.
Dual Vocational Training with Degree
Abitur graduates can opt for dual vocational training, often combined with a degree program. This form of education combines practical apprenticeship in the company with academic studies at a university. Popular fields for dual training include industrial engineering, mechanical engineering, business administration, and computer science. Through parallel studies, they acquire both theoretical and practical knowledge and receive a professional qualification and a degree upon completion.
Creative Apprenticeships
Creative graduates can choose apprenticeships in design, media, or arts and crafts, including media designer, photographer, graphic designer, or event manager. These professions often require a high degree of creativity, technical skills, and a willingness to learn new trends. The media industry offers numerous training positions that attract with a modern and creative work environment. There is often the possibility to work later in self-employment or in specialized agencies.
Social and Educational Apprenticeships
In the social and educational sector, graduates can complete apprenticeships as educators, social assistants, or curative education nurses. Those interested in people and social professions will find interesting training and career opportunities here. In addition to basic training, there are often specialized further education courses that provide additional competencies in areas like youth education or support for people with disabilities.
Career Opportunities through Advanced Training
After completing an apprenticeship, graduates have numerous options to further qualify through advanced training programs. Popular advancement training includes becoming a certified specialist, obtaining a master craftsman title, or becoming a technician. These programs prepare individuals for leadership positions and significantly expand professional opportunities. Many employers support graduates in part-time further education, enabling rapid career advancement.