Master Programme “Information and Electrical Engineering” for International Students at Hochschule Wismar: Theoretical Framework

Abstract

Abstract Hochschule Wismar, Germany, has been implementing Master programmes for international students since 1992. However, for most European universities, it is a rather new phenomenon. The purpose of the work is to analyse scientific literature on European higher education programmes for international students and to outline a theoretical framework of European higher education programmes for international students underpinning elaboration of new research question on master programmes for international engineering students. The research methodology comprises the study of the meaning of the key concepts of “framework”, “theoretical framework” and “international students”. Moreover, the logical chain of analysis is shown: theoretical framework → empirical study within a multicultural environment → conclusions. The case study research is applied. The empirical study was carried out at Hochschule Wismar, Germany in March 2017. Semi-structured interview served as the basis for data collection. The empirical findings allow complementing the elaborated theoretical framework consisting of the concepts on reasons for, language and impact of Masetr programme for international students with such a concept as European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). Directions of further research are proposed. The novel contribution of the paper is the newly formulated research question on master programmes for international students.