Types of Higher Education Institutions

Universities and Universities of Applied Sciences - There are two types of institutions of higher education in Germany: Universities (Universitaeten), including the Universities of Technology (abb. TU) and Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen, abb. FH). The Universities follow the principle of unity of research and teaching, initiated by Wilhelm von Humboldt in the 19th century. Universities are research-oriented. The Universities of Applied Sciences (FH) are profession oriented institutions. Subjects are mainly engineering, business administration, social sciences and design. The organised curricula reduce the duration of studies and provide a close relationship to industries or the corporate world. Universities of Applied Sciences do not award doctorate degrees.

Distance Universities - Germany’s institutions of higher education also offer a wide range of distance studies. The most comprehensive and up-to-date overview of these can be found at http://www.studieren-im-netz.de. Please note that the language of instruction is mostly German.

Ranking - Once you have found the right type of university the most important thing is to check out which specific university is best suited for you. You can find out for yourself by visiting this website:

Internet Search - If you haven’t identified a university yet, browse the internet for a relevant course. DAAD has published a brochure with a list of weblinks that can be used as the starting point for your research. You can read these webpages through the following link as well : http://www.daad.de/bookmarks/ . Most institutions of higher education have a webpage in the internet that is designed to answer the most frequently asked questions concerning course contents and other activities the university offers. Most of the webpages are available in English and will provide you with useful information.