Universities in Germany

Planning to study in Germany?

Germany has got some of the oldest and prestigious higher education institutions in Europe. Together with younger technical universities, the main German universities are spread throughout the country in more than 40 cities. Munich, Berlin, Heidelberg, Hamburg, Freiburg, Leipzig, Frankfurt or Cologne just to mention a couple of the most famous ones.

Germany has some of the oldest universities in Europe

Some of the German oldest universities have been in continuous operation since their founding such us Heidelberg University (1386), Leipzig University (1409) or the University of Rostock (1419). Others were established in the 14th or 15th centuries, but shut down for longer periods and later re-opened (University of Cologne, University of Würzburg).

Study in English at German Universities

According to the Times Higher Education´s World University Ranking, German Universities scored among the best institutions in the world. There are more than 380 officially recognized universities throughout Germany. This universities offer over 17,000 study programmes. Whatever subject you are interested in, you can study that degree in English in Germany. Currently more than 1,000 degrees (bachelor’s and master’s programmes) are taught in English at top German universities. Another positive argument for Germany are the tuition fees. Except in one regional state, there are no university tuition fees. In addition, the good quality of life and high levels of positive recommendations from previous generations of students make German higher education landscape very attractive. Find more on our sikhna course on sikhna.eu.

The different Types of German Higher Education Institutions

Prospective students can choose between different types of higher education institutions in Germany: there are universities, universities of applied sciences, private universities and universities of cooperative education as well as colleges of arts and music. Keep in mind that every type of higher education institution may have particular areas of specialisation.

Focus on science: universities. They mainly teach theoretical knowledge and emphasise research. They have the right to confer doctoral degrees and can award doctorates in Germany. Universities normally offer a wide range of different subjects, technical universities (Technische Universität, TU) or colleges of education (Pädagogische Hochschule, PH) are specialised on certain areas or subjects.
Focus on practice: universities of applied sciences. They have a practice-oriented academic approach. They focus more on professional application than on theory. Their range of subjects comprises specific fields such as technology, economics, social work or medicine. In the practical phases, students at universities of applied sciences complete work placements.
Colleges of art and music train young artists such as musicians, architects, fine artists and designers. Admission requirements include an entrance examination where applicants can demonstrate a specific talent.
Universities of cooperative education offer a dual study programme that combine academic studies with vocational training or practical phases in a company. This may be an interesting option for people who prefer to learn practically and start their careers quickly.