Schule and Hochschule are key nouns for education in German, marking distinct stages:
- Schule = school (compulsory education from primary to secondary)
- Hochschule = university, college (higher education institutions)
| Term | Meaning | Typical Usage | Education Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schule | School | All forms of school (primary to secondary) | Mandatory education |
| Hochschule | University/College | Universities and similar higher education institutions | Post-secondary education |
Schule: School
Schule refers to the system where children and teenagers receive their compulsory education. It spans from primary school through various levels of secondary education.
- Used for any type of school (elementary, middle, high)
- Covers ages roughly 6 to 18
- Derives from the Greek scholē, meaning a place of learning
Schule means 'school'—the place for compulsory education.
'Schule' covers primary and secondary education, not higher education.
No, 'Schule' is not used for university; it means 'school' for younger learners.
Hochschule: University, College
Hochschule is the general term for institutions of higher education, including universities, technical colleges, and academies.
- Refers to post-secondary education providers
- Includes universities (Universität) and specialized colleges
- Combines hoch (high) and Schule (school), literally "high school," but means "university"
'Hochschule' means a university or college—places for higher education.
'Hochschule' covers universities, technical colleges, and academies.
'Hochschule' is not used for compulsory education—only for higher education.
Conclusion
Schule is where German children attend compulsory education, while Hochschule describes institutions for higher learning.
- Schule = school (primary to secondary education)
- Hochschule = university/college (higher education)