Approval of distance learning courses

Prior to approval, distance learning courses are examined to determine whether the stated course objective can be achieved with the distance learning course. Both the technical side and the didactic access (teaching methods) are examined. Approved distance learning courses receive an approval seal with an approval number. The organisers must list this approval number in the information material as a verifiable reference to the state approval granted.

State Central Office for Distance Learning (ZFU)

Peter-Welter-Platz 2

50676 Cologne

Phone: +49 221 921207-0

Fax.: +49 221 921207-20

E-mail: poststelle@zfu.nrw.de

State Central Office for Distance Learning (ZFU)

Peter-Welter-Platz 2

50676 Cologne

Phone: +49 221 921207-0

Fax.: +49 221 921207-20

E-mail: poststelle@zfu.nrw.de

Vocational distance learning courses must, in terms of their content, duration or objective and the way in which they are conducted, comply with the objectives of vocational education and training under the Vocational Training Act or other legislation on vocational education and training. Advertising and information, agency activities and the drafting of contracts must meet the requirements of the Distance Learning Protection Act.

• Application form
• Extract from the commercial register/register of associations
• Course planning
• Application/contract forms
• Information material for participants
• Examination regulations
• External specifications, e.g. state training regulations
• List of teaching materials
• Working materials
• Quality management concept

• Admission fee: 150% of the course sales price, at least 950.00 Euro
• in the case of admission after initial provisional admission: 200% of the course sales price, at least 950.00 Euro

Approval shall be deemed to have been granted if no decision on approval has been taken within three months of receipt of the complete dossier.

• § 12 Absatz 1 Satz 1 Fernunterrichtsschutzgesetz (FernUSG)

• Antragsformulare

No approval is required for distance learning courses whose aim is exclusively to supplement other self-contained, independent educational offers and which are only suitable in conjunction with other educational offers. In the case of these supplementary distance learning courses, the contractual arrangements must comply with the requirements of the Distance Learning Protection Act. Their distribution must be notified to the State Central Office for Distance Learning.

30.11.2012