Departementsserien

Departementsserien, also known as the Departmental Series, is a series of competitive football leagues in Germany. It serves as the fourth tier of the German football league system, below the 3. Liga, and above the Oberliga, which is the fifth tier. The Departmental Series is divided into 20 regional leagues, each corresponding to a specific state or region within Germany. These leagues are organized by the respective state football associations.

The Departmental Series operates on a promotion and relegation system with the 3. Liga and the Oberliga. Teams that finish in the top positions of the Departmental Series can be promoted to the 3. Liga, while those finishing in the lower positions may be relegated to the Oberliga. The number of teams promoted and relegated can vary depending on the number of teams in each league and the specific rules set by the German Football Association (DFB).

The Departmental Series is an important part of the German football pyramid, providing a pathway for lower-tier clubs to potentially reach higher levels of competition. It also serves as a platform for regional talent to develop and gain experience, which can be beneficial for their future careers in football. The Departmental Series is known for its competitive nature and the high level of play, as teams strive to achieve promotion to the 3. Liga and beyond.