A small number of degree programmes can currently still be completed with a diploma examination. Diploma degree programmes focus on a single subject (e.g. mechanical engineering). The diploma degree from a university of applied sciences is labelled with the suffix (FH), e.g. Diplom-Ingenieur*in (FH).

Magister degree programmes are only offered at universities and colleges with a comparable remit. Most of the remaining Magister degree programmes are in theology and law.

Church examinations in theology are held on the basis of examination regulations issued by the church authorities. Diploma, Magister, Bachelor's and Master's degrees can also be obtained.

With a few exceptions, a doctorate is a prerequisite for an academic career. As a rule, it requires a university degree with good results, whereby a Bachelor's degree is usually not sufficient.

In order to successfully complete a doctorate, a doctoral thesis (dissertation) must usually be completed. This is an independent academic achievement that leads to significant new findings. The right to award doctorates generally lies with the universities. If universities of applied sciences have concluded a co-operation agreement with universities, it is also possible to do a doctorate there.

In addition, more and more federal states have created new regulations in recent years that also allow universities of applied sciences to award doctorates independently. In Schleswig-Holstein, Bremen, Berlin, Saxony-Anhalt, North Rhine-Westphalia, Hesse, Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria, it is therefore possible for graduates to do a doctorate at their own university or in a cooperation in the form of a subject or thematically oriented doctoral centre.