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Advising on Partnership Agreements

University Partnership Agreements (Cooperation Agreements)

University-wide university partnership agreements (cooperation agreements) form the contractual basis for research and teaching collaboration that goes beyond personal relationships between researchers and academics. This includes, for example:

  • Research cooperation (third-party funded projects, in particular)
  • Awarding of double degrees
  • Establishment of joint degree programs
  • Student and staff exchange programs  
  • Supervision of interns and PhD candidates

If cooperation with an international university requires the exchange of personal data, financial contributions, or guarantees for the recognition of university credits, it is advisable to conclude a partnership agreement

Faculty Partnership Agreements

In instances where only one academic department, faculty, or subject area is interested in collaborating with another university, partnership agreements are concluded at the faculty level as faculty partnership agreements, which are signed by the dean.

    Feel free to ask us about this!

    The International Office advises members of all faculties on the issue of concluding faculty partnership agreements. Upon request, the IO can provide contract templates.

    We can also advise you on the preparation of work programs (Implementation Agreements) with regard to their integration into the corresponding contract. 

    Advising on special agreements

    For some types of contracts, our colleagues in other departments can provide assistance:

    Brief Nomenclature of Contract/Agreement Types

    • Cooperation Agreement: University partnership agreement; may also be concluded at the faculty level as a faculty partnership agreement.
    • Memorandum of Understanding (MoU): a declaration of intent signed by all negotiating parties that is not legally binding. The MoU summarizes the results of discussions held to date, proposes a timetable for the implementation of projects, and names future contract partners. It is advisable to include a limit with regard to the validity period.
    • Letter of Intent (LOI): Declaration of intent by one of the negotiating parties that is not legally binding.

    Regional Advisor for University Partnerships

    regions Asia, Australia, Europe

     


    Campus Neues Palais
    Am Neuen Palais 10, 14496 Potsdam
    Haus 8, Raum 1.06

    Regional Advisor for University Partnerships

    regions North America, South America, Subsaharan Africa

     


    Campus Neues Palais
    Am Neuen Palais 10, 14496 Potsdam
    Haus 8, Raum 0.36