Thurgau University of Teacher Education

The Thurgau University of Teacher Education (PHTG) is an open, multi-cultural university providing high quality pre-service and in-service teacher education and engaging in educational research. Our location in the heart of Europe and our commitment to internationalisation allow for a unique study experience without borders.

A modern campus in an attractive, central location

The new and purpose-built PHTG Campus is fully equipped with modern facilities, such as a library and a New Media Centre offering the latest audio-visual equipment. Other facilities are specialist to the subjects we offer.

Bachelor programmes

In three years of full-time study students are trained in pre-primary (kindergarten) or primary school education (grades 1-6). The degree awarded by PHTG to successful candidates is the Bachelor of Arts in Pre-Primary/Primary Education. Courses concentrate not only on teaching skills and practical training but also on many individual subjects (including music, arts & crafts and foreign languages).

Master programmes

The MA course “Sekundarstufe I” qualifies students to teach 3 to 4 subjects in lower secondary schools (grades 7 to 9).

The MA course “Sekundarstufe II” enables students who have previously completed a degree programme at a Master’s level to gain a teaching qualification and includes modules in education and methodology whilst offering practical training. Successful students are awarded the degree of Master of Advanced Studies in Secondary and Higher Education (grades 9 to 12).

Another Master Programme, the MA for Early Childhood Education, is designed for students wishing to become experts in the field of early childhood education.

Cross-border Collaboration

PHTG has been able to establish a unique partnership with the neighbouring University of Konstanz in Germany (officially classed as one of Germany’s “Universities of Excellence”).

All of PHTG’s Master degrees are offered in cooperation with this university where students acquire their in-depth academic knowledge related to their chosen subject areas. As a cross-university teaching and research initiative, the Binational School of Education (BiSE) by PHTG and the University of  Konstanz  aims to further strengthen the professionalisation of teacher education and support the development of research in the field of specialised didactics:  bise.uni-konstanz.de/

What to expect as an international student

1. The language of instruction is German. A limited range of courses taught in English is available for non-degree seeking students with little or no knowledge of German.
2. International students attend our practice and research-oriented courses together with regular PHTG students to ensure a culturally mixed classroom environment.
3. Tailor-made school placements and German language courses form an integral part of studying at PHTG.
4. Students may complement their study programme at PHTG with courses offered by the German University of Konstanz and thus get to study in two countries during their time abroad.
5. PHTG provides exchange students with affordable accommodation in fully furnished and centrally located student apartments as well as a bicycle.