Project

The central research questions of RegelWerk are:
Which specific regulations contribute to greater commitment in university studies? How does the binding nature of admission, advising, and examination regulations affect academic success?

RegelWerk focuses on the institutional framework of higher education as defined by admission criteria and the rules set out in study and examination regulations. The term rules refers to all agreements between students and universities that involve mutual rights and obligations. Within the framework of the extensive university autonomy in Germany, universities can influence the degree of commitment in studies by shaping these regulations.

Commitment can take two forms: On the one hand, the university makes binding offers to students; on the other hand, it demands commitment from students regarding academic progress and success. A high level of governmental and institutional regulation—such as obligations related to exams and academic advising—implies a high level of commitment for students. Conversely, a low level of commitment is associated with greater student autonomy, for example through regulations that offer more choices.

Project start:
01. May 2025

Project end:
30. April 2029

Project management:
Prof. Dr. Kerstin Schneider

Project staff:
Luis Rumert, Thomas Gößl, Leandro Henao