What are some job and university options for a spouse in Germany?

2017-07-14T15:55:49-04:00

My wife and I are looking into getting stationed in Germany, however she doesn't want to go if she can't find a good job or a university to attend. She currently works at a bank, so she wants a similar job. What are her options on and off post in Germany?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2017 4:26 PM

2017-07-14T16:26:28-04:00

There are jobs on post sometimes for civilians. Does she speak German? If so there are many German universities, but she would have to qualify. Although I was there over thirty years ago, I keep up with the culture. Some posts had college courses offered through accredited schools. There are American banks there, but speaking German might be a requirement.

I was offered a graduate fellowship at Leipzig University in 1988, but deferred because it was still in communist East Germany. Little did I know the wall would come down a year later. It is a beautiful country, and I am sure she would love it once she got there. There are plenty of sights to see, and travel is easy because of the public transportation. Good luck, and take advantage of the opportunity!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2017 6:55 PM

2017-07-14T18:55:39-04:00

Off post? Probably not going to happen if she doesn't speak German, but there are banks on base.

Response by 1stSgt Jeff Blovat made Jul 15 at 2017 10:40 AM

2017-07-15T10:40:22-04:00

First of all, just go. My wife and I were stationed there 1989-1991. Loved every day of it. We had professors come onto the base for classes.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 15 at 2017 11:26 PM

2017-07-15T23:26:45-04:00

Find out here you could be stationed and reach out to service members stationed in that area for POCs at the education centers and what the job outlook is in that garrison/region for spouses.

Response by SPC Nathan Thompson made Jul 21 at 2017 10:03 PM

2017-07-21T22:03:13-04:00

It really depends on where you're stationed. Some places have lots of options and some don't

Response by SSG Tonda (Dillivan-Rudoll) Navarrete made Jul 25 at 2017 10:16 AM

2017-07-25T10:16:32-04:00

Hello SPC Averett,

I absolutely loved Germany! I was stationed in Kitzingen from 1998-2000 (the base has since been shut down). It was my first duty station and my only regret is that I didn’t explore more while I was there. Take full advantage of MWR opportunities and public transportation if you do end up taking that assignment.

I can imagine this potential move could be a little scary for you and your spouse. I can assure you that with a little time you will find your new norm. Make sure you put yourself out there and try something new when you get the chance!

In regard to your question, I highly suggest that your spouse take some courses online. Most schools offer a variety of online programs, many of which can be completed while overseas. The convenience of online learning becomes apparent when you are trying to acclimate to your new surroundings. Coursework is completed from home with no anxiety associated with trying to find your way around a foreign country. And if she does find a job in Germany, she can still pursue her degree without disrupting her work schedule.

I completed my last degree with American Military University and I can attest to the convenience of attending an online school as a military spouse. After I separated from the service, I followed my husband through his last 11 years of service, and the best way for me to continue my coursework through his multiple PCS’ without losing credit in switching schools was with AMU. I enjoyed my program tremendously and I appreciated the fact that most of my classmates were service members, veterans, military spouses, or dependents. I was in great company!

You can check out this site for additional information about the school: http://www.amuonline.com/rallypoint

I wish you and your wife the best of luck in your decision!

rallypoint