Types of German universities: How to choose the right one?

In the winter semester 2021/2022, there were a total of 422 universities in Germany, more than half of which are universities of applied sciences with a total of 213. The other half includes 108 universities, 52 art schools, 30 administrative schools, 16 theology schools, and 6 education colleges. These institutions are classified into three main categories:

• Universität: universities
• Fachhochschulen: universities of applied sciences
• Kunst-, Musik- und Filmhochschulen: art, film, and music schools

Choosing the right university for you depends on different criteria such as your field of study, your future career orientation, etc. Regardless of the type of institution, one thing we can assure you is that they are all of good quality.

Higher Education Policy

In Germany, education is decentralized. Each of the 16 federal states has its own laws and regulations regarding higher education. Moreover, German universities are highly autonomous, meaning it's up to the universities to decide on admission and enrollment deadlines. You should always ask your chosen university what rules they apply.

Types

In Germany, there are three types of higher education institutions. The type of institution that suits you will depend on your career plans and interests.

• Universities
• Universities of applied sciences
• Art, Film, and Music Colleges

Universities - Universität

Keywords: academic, theory-focused, research-focused

If you're interested in studying in an academic and heavily research-focused environment, the university is the right choice for you. Universities offer a very wide range of subjects to allow you to pursue your academic career. In Germany, universities primarily refer to comprehensive universities. However, there are also others specialized in specific fields such as technical schools (Technische Universität or Technische Hochschule), medical schools (Medizinische Hochschule), or pedagogical schools (pädagogische Hochschule).

Universities of Applied Sciences - Fachhochschule

Keywords: practice-oriented university education, professional practice

If you prefer practice-oriented studies, then universities of applied sciences, known as Fachhochschule in German, will interest you more. During your studies, you won't only attend academic seminars, but you'll also do practical internships at companies, and you'll try to apply what you've learned on your own. At universities of applied sciences, students will have the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge to solve real-world problems that could arise in companies and various situations.

Art, Film, and Music Colleges

Keywords: music, architecture, visual arts, theater, dance, design

You should opt for art, film, and music colleges if you love the arts. These colleges offer subjects such as fine arts, industrial design, fashion, graphic design, instrumental music, or singing. Modern media colleges train directors, filmmakers, screenwriters, and other cinema and television professionals. The prerequisite for admission to such studies is a particular artistic talent, which you must prove during an aptitude test. Art, film, and music schools apply specific admission conditions.

What is Ausbildung?

You may have heard of Ausbildung as a type of education in Germany that comes after school and before work. Although Ausbildung also focuses on practical exercises, it is very different from Fachhochschule. For more information about Ausbildung, we suggest you read our article on the "German education system".

How Are Public and Private German Universities Different?

One of the most important differences between public and private universities in Germany may be their funding sources, just like in other countries. Most universities in Germany are state-funded. A few colleges are run by the Protestant or Catholic Church. Additionally, there are now more than 100 private universities whose degrees are recognized by the state. However, the vast majority of German students are enrolled in state universities because private university tuition fees are very high.

Another difference is that in private universities, the class format is more flexible. For example, the number of students is limited in a class, so professors can get to know them all and therefore offer better learning outcomes. But in general, both public and private universities offer good quality education.

After reading this article, do you still have questions about the different types of German higher education institutions? If so, you can always contact EDUBAO and ask your questions!