Universities of applied sciences in Germany are referred to as : Fachhochschulen (FHs) or Hochschulen für Angewandte Wissenschaften (HAWs). In Germany, they are the most popular type of educational institutes, second only to universities. However, Germany isn't the only nation to have such institutions. Some German-speaking countries like Austria and Switzerland and a few others like Greece and Sweden do have the comparable ‘vocational universities’. Applied science universities are extremely popular among the international students in Germany because they can access both academic excellence and practical experience here. So, let us find out all about Universities of Applied Sciences in Germany in this blog along with all their relevant details.
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What are Universities of Applied Sciences in Germany: How are they different?
The universities in Germany are generally categorized into 3 types - University, University of Applied Sciences, and University of Art, Film & Music.
Universities of Applied Sciences in Germany is a tertiary education institution that specializes in offering a practical approach to learning. Some of the features of these universities are:
- Practical and vocational learning is the priority. Students regularly engage in practical exercises, such as laboratory experiments or group projects and internships are often compulsory.
- The class size is generally small and promotes more teacher-student engagement.
- Since the focus is on vocational skills, the number of subjects offered are much smaller as compared to a regular university. Most degree courses are in the fields of technology, engineering, economics, design or the social sciences. One can also find bachelor’s and master’s programmes in healthcare.
- The collaboration between the universities and industrial partners is an important aspect.
- Applicants trying to get into Fachhochschule in Germany are required to provide evidence of their vocational experience.
The university of applied sciences differs from the other types of universities on a number of parameters. Here’s a quick overview of these differences:
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University |
University of Applied Science |
University of Art, Film and Music |
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Knowledge-based and the research-based learning systems |
Practical approach to learning |
Artistic and training-oriented, |
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Grant Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate degrees |
Grant Bachelors and Masters degree (Cannot grant a doctorate degree) |
Offers Bachelors, Masters, Doctorates and other Artistic degrees |
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Cover a wide range of subjects from humanities to science. |
Subjects taught are specific to science & technology, economics, social work or media. |
Subjects taught focus on Music, media, art, performing arts, theatre, films, etc. |
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Why Study at Universities of Applied Sciences In Germany?
Before we proceed further, here are some benefits of studying at the University of Applied Sciences in Germany:
- They are a symbol of German innovative capacity. The research findings discovered by students here are often implemented in real life spaces in collaboration with local companies.
- Fast access to key technologies, especially for certain branches like automotives and energy.
- Provide great employment opportunities. Export-oriented industries with production centres in multiple locations are constantly on the lookout for recruitment of specialists.
- Specialised training given so one can become part of a highly-qualified personnel, like language and intercultural skills. International students often have local cultural capital that they can pair with knowledge of German and Germany.
- Impressive chances of employment after graduation internationally are great because the course involves active engagement with international institutes and industries too.
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Admission Requirements for Universities of Applied Sciences in Germany
The requirements for the best universities of applied sciences in Germany vary depending on the degree programme. You will find the specific requirements for a degree programme on each college website.
Requirements for Bachelor’s Programs
Here are a few admission requirements for Bachelor's programmes are
- Secondary School certificate with a good GPA
- Proof of English Language Proficiency - IELTS/ TOEFL/ PTE
- Proof of German Language Proficiency
- CV/ Resume
- Passport
- Germany Student Visa
- Entrance Exam
- Proof of some pre-study practical training
- For dual study programmes, you usually should have completed vocational training
Requirements for Master’s Programs
Master's degree programmes have their own detailed admission regulations. Here are a few common requirements for the top universities:
- Educational Transcripts
- GMAT/GRE scores may be required
- Proof of English Language Proficiency - IELTS/ TOEFL/ PTE
- Proof of German Language Proficiency
- CV/ Resume
- Passport
- Germany Student Visa
- Proof of a course of vocational training or a one-year internship
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REMEMBER: While applying for your desired program, make sure you check the university website for the exact requirements. |
Top Universities of Applied Sciences in Germany
Whether private or public, the best fachhochschule in Germany all offer quality education. Here is the list of applied sciences universities in Germany, singling out the best options for you.
1. FH Aachen University of Applied Sciences
FH Aachen is one of the biggest and top universities of applied sciences in Germany. Apart from courses like mathematics, informatics, natural sciences, and technology, the university also offers programs in business and design. The university is known for its modern teaching methods and experiential learning at both undergraduate and graduate level. FH Aachen also has a close cooperation with regional businesses that helps students immensely.
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University Type |
Public |
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Location |
Aachen |
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Tuition Fees |
No Tuition Fees for most programs |
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Popular Programs |
B.Eng Mechanical Engineering B.Sc. Biotechnology M.A. Architecture M.Sc. Biotechnology M.Sc. Aerospace Engineering M.B.A. Management and Entrepreneurship |
2. Cologne University of Applied Sciences
Also known as TH Köln, this is the largest University of Applied Sciences in Germany. It also holds a top spot among university of applied sciences ranking Germany. The university offers around 100 bachelor's and master's degree programs in fields including Applied Social Sciences, Cultural Sciences, Computer Science, Business, Economics, Architecture, Engineering and more. The university offers exchange opportunities through its partnership with 360 universities in 94 countries.
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University Type |
Public |
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Location |
Cologne |
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Tuition Fees |
No Tuition Fees for most programs |
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Popular Programs |
B.Sc. Applied Chemistry B.A. Architecture B.Eng. Automotive Engineering M.Sc. Computer Science & Engineering M.Eng. Automation & IT M.A Behavioral Ethics, Economics and Psychology |
3. HTW Berlin - University of Applied Sciences
Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft is one of the best fachhochschule in Germany. It offers programs at bachelor’s and master's level degrees in fields including engineering, computer science, business, culture and design. The university works with a number of research networks and international research projects. While most of its programs are taught in German, HTW Berlin offers a few of them in English as well.
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University Type |
Public |
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Location |
Berlin |
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Tuition Fees |
No Tuition Fees for most programs |
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Popular Programs |
B.Sc. Facility Management B.A. International Business B.Eng. Electrical Engineering M.Eng. Information and Communication Technology M.A. Finance, Accounting, Corporate Law and Taxation MBA Business Administration and Engineering |
4. Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences
The university also known as h_da offers a range of programs and research capacities for students. Students can choose between engineering sciences, mathematics, computer science, management, social sciences, architecture, media etc. The university is well known for its interdisciplinary, practice-oriented approach to higher education. It is home to over 17,000 students studying at bachelor and masters levels
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University Type |
Public |
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Location |
Darmstadt |
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Tuition Fees |
No Tuition Fees for most programs |
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Popular Programs |
B.A. Animation and Game M.Sc. Chemistry M.Sc. Civil Engineering M.A. International Media Cultural Work MBA |
5. Esslingen University of Applied Sciences
Esslingen University of Applied Sciences is known for its programs in engineering, management, social sciences, and health care and nursing sciences. The university accepts applications from students from all over the world at bachelor and master level. The university is known for its research and partnerships with several well-established companies such as Daimler, Porsche, Bosch, etc.
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University Type |
Public |
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Location |
Esslingen am Neckar, |
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Tuition Fees |
No Tuition Fees for most programs |
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Popular Programs |
B.Eng. Engineering Management B.Eng. Management and Information Systems B.Sc. Mechatronic/Electrical Engineering M.Eng. Automotive Systems MIM MBA International Industrial Management |
6. Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences
The Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences is one of the best universities of applied sciences in Germany. The university offers a broad variety of practice-oriented degree programs for students in fields such as Business & Management, Architecture, Computer Science, Engineering & Technology, and more. These programs are known for their high academic standards at both Bachelor and Master levels. The university has partnerships with 100 universities giving students a wide range of exposure.
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University Type |
Public |
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Location |
Frankfurt |
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Tuition Fees |
Upto 400 EUR per semester |
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Popular Programs |
B.A. Architecture B. Sc.Applied Biosciences Dual B.Eng. Civil Engineering dual M.Sc. Accounting and Finance Advanced Architecture MBA Aviation and Tourism Management M. Eng. General Engineering |
7. Hamburg University of Applied Sciences
Hamburg University of Applied Sciences is the third-largest applied sciences university in Germany with an international student population of over 14 percent. It offers more degrees at the bachelors and masters levels in fields including Engineering and Computer Science, Life Sciences, Design, Media and Information and Business and Social Sciences. The programs are practice-oriented that aim at professional development of the students.
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University Type |
Public |
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Location |
Hamburg |
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Tuition Fees |
No Tuition Fees for most programs |
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Popular Programs |
B.A. Media and Information B.Sc.Information Engineering B.Sc. Electrical Engineering and Information Technology M.Sc. Mechanical Engineering M.Sc. Production Technology and Management M.A. Design |
