Fachprüfungsordnungen

Fachprüfungsordnungen are a type of regulation used by German-speaking higher education institutions to govern the assessment and examination requirements for a given subject area within a degree program. They set the conditions under which students complete subject-related examinations and achieve the degree, defining the scope of examinations, the required modules, and the assessment methods used to measure achievement. FPOs thus complement the broader Studienordnung (curriculum) and Prüfungsordnung (rules governing examinations) by detailing subject-specific requirements.

Typical contents include a catalog of compulsory and elective modules, credit allocation (ECTS), module descriptions, formats of assessments (written exams, oral exams, coursework, theses), passing requirements, number of permissible retakes, deadlines, and progression rules. They may also address recognition of prior learning, language of examinations, and special provisions for disabilities or international students. In some contexts, a final or Fachprüfung or related prerequisites may be specified at the end.

Formation and modification of FPOs occur within faculties or departments and are usually subject to approval by academic bodies such as senates or faculty boards, following procedural rules. They must comply with broader state or national regulations and are typically made publicly accessible, enabling prospective and current students to plan study trajectories.

Impact: For students, the FPO provides the concrete requirements for completing the subject component of a program, informs module choice, and defines assessment expectations. Changes to an FPO generally apply to students registered for the program at the time of the change, with transitional provisions described in the regulation.