For Companies
Welcome to the Science and Technology Academy (STA), a pioneering initiative developed by the Technical Faculty at Kiel University in collaboration with the North German Initiative Nanotechnology (NINa SH e.V.). Designed to tackle the pressing issue of labor shortage, STA offers a dynamic solution that bridges the gap between academia and industry in Schleswig-Holstein.
The project is based on the concept of dual studies, but with a flexible twist. Companies are encouraged to support students financially through sponsorships or working-student contracts, ensuring a conducive environment for learning and integration within the German labour market. In return, students work at the companies during lecture-free periods and other agreed-upon times, providing their valuable assistance on a half-time basis.
Currently, we're working with two international master’s degree programs:
- Material Sciences and Engineering (KielMAT)
- Electrical and Information Engineering (E&IE)
Here's why your company should get involved:
- Access to a Select Talent Pool: STA connects companies with highly qualified professionals pursuing master's studies in Materials Science and Engineering, and Electric and Information Engineering. These students, having completed their bachelor's studies in technical fields and often with industry experience, enrich your workforce with diverse backgrounds, skills, fresh perspective, and innovative ideas.
- Language and Cultural Understanding: Engaging with international students fosters language skills and cultural understanding within your company, crucial for global operations and competitivity in a global market.
- Innovation and Creativity: International students inject creativity and unique perspectives into projects, driving innovation and offering new problem-solving approaches.
- Recruitment Pipeline for Future Talent: By participating in STA, you gain access to top-performing students who may become valuable hires upon graduation, establishing a pipeline for future recruitment.
- Enhanced Employer Branding: Supporting international student programs showcases your commitment to diversity, inclusion, and talent development, attracting top talent seeking progressive workplaces.
- Project Support and Expertise: International students provide additional support and expertise for specific projects or initiatives within your company, bolstering your team with additional support and specialized skills.
- Economic Benefits and Innovation Grants: Collaboration opportunities with CAU research groups through STA can lead to economic benefits and innovation grants, including tax benefits such as Forschungszulage.
Engaging with STA not only addresses labour shortages but also fosters cultural exchange, talent development, and innovation within your company. The specific benefits vary based on your industry, goals, and level of engagement with the program. Join us in shaping the future of industry in Schleswig-Holstein while nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.
How Does It Work? / Timeline
- Highly qualified and motivated professionals apply to the Faculty of Engineering for an international Master's program.
- After they have been selected by the admissions committee, we introduce you to your potential part-time employees. You choose who best suits your needs.
- Your decision to hire a candidate for part-time employment makes it easier for them to apply for a student visa.
- The working students will work with you during the semester break, and during other agreed-upon times.
Detailed Conditions
The Science and Technology Academy (STA) boasts a distinctive feature: its remarkable flexibility. Each working student contract is tailored individually, ensuring the best fit for all parties involved. While negotiations vary case by case, here are the general requirements we expect from participating companies:
- Part-time, Working Student Contract
- Ideally lasting for the entire duration of the studies, but a minimum of one year commitment is required.
- Work Hours
- Up to 20 hours per week during class periods.
- Up to 40 hours per week during holidays and lecture-free periods, capped at 26 weeks per year.
- Minimum Guaranteed Salary
- 934 € per month (11.208 € per year).
Here's an illustrative breakdown of working hours over a year based on a 15 € hourly wage:
- 10 hours per week during class periods.
- 25 hours per week during holidays and lecture-free periods.
Additionally, there are a few key points to consider:
- The minimum wage in Germany stands at 12.41 € (as of January 2024) per hour.
- Priority is given to companies offering contracts that span the entire duration of the study period.
