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Private University in Germany
The Private University System in Germany – Your Guide to Higher Education in All 16 States
Germany is not only known for its public universities but also for its private universities.
A private university in Germany is an institution that is not funded by the government but instead by private organizations, companies, or individuals. Private universities in Germany offer high-quality education focusing on practical skills, modern facilities, and smaller class sizes, giving students more personal attention from professors.
While tuition fees are generally higher at a private university than at a public one, students often benefit from more specialized programs, international opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Private universities are excellent for students who prefer a career-focused approach and want to stand out in the job market. Below, we will explore the different private universities in Germany’s 16 federal states.
Baden-Württemberg
Baden-Württemberg is known for its strong educational standards and is home to several renowned private universities.
- SRH University Heidelberg – Known for health sciences, business, and engineering.
- GISMA Business School – Focuses on international business and management studies.
- Hochschule der Medien (Stuttgart Media University) – Specializes in media, communication, and digital studies.
- Duale Hochschule Baden-Württemberg (DHBW) – Offers dual-study programs that combine academic study with practical training.
Bavaria (Bayern)
Bavaria has several private universities focusing on business, technology, and health.
- Munich Business School – Known for international business programs.
- University of Applied Sciences Europe (UE) – Offers business, sports, and design programs.
- FOM University of Applied Sciences – Focuses on business, finance, and management.
- International School of Management (ISM) – Offers international business and management programs.
Berlin
The capital city of Berlin hosts several private universities that are highly regarded for their modern approach to education.
- ESCP Business School – Focuses on international business with campuses across Europe.
- Hertie School – Known for public policy, governance, and international affairs.
- SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences – Offers management, technology, and the arts courses.
- Steinbeis University Berlin – Specializes in business and project-based learning.
Brandenburg
Brandenburg's private universities focus on practical skills and career-oriented education.
- Brandenburg University of Applied Sciences – Known for engineering, technology, and management programs.
- University of Applied Sciences Europe (UE), Potsdam – Specializes in design, art, and media.
Bremen
Bremen has a few private universities focusing on management, logistics, and health sciences.
- International Graduate Center (IGC) – Focuses on MBA and master's programs in business.
- Jacobs University Bremen is known for its international diversity and interdisciplinary programs. It offers courses in natural sciences, social sciences, and engineering.
Hamburg
Hamburg's private universities focus on business, management, and health sciences.
- Kühne Logistics University (KLU) – Specializes in logistics, supply chain management, and global trade.
- HSBA Hamburg School of Business Administration – Offers business courses with hands-on learning and corporate partnerships.
- Medical School Hamburg (MSH) – Known for health sciences, psychology, and medical studies.
Hesse (Hessen)
Hesse is home to private universities known for business, finance, and psychology.
- Frankfurt School of Finance & Management – A top finance, management, and economics institution.
- Fresenius University of Applied Sciences – Offers health sciences, engineering, and social sciences programs.
- European Business School (EBS) – Focuses on business and law with an international orientation.
Lower Saxony (Niedersachsen)
Lower Saxony has private universities focusing on health sciences, psychology, and business.
- PFH Private University of Applied Sciences – Known for business, management, and engineering.
- Hochschule für Angewandte Management (HAM) – Focuses on management, psychology, and media.
Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania (Mecklenburg-Vorpommern)
This state has private universities focused on innovative education and practical skills.
- Hochschule der Wirtschaft für Management – Specializes in business, management, and logistics.
- FOM University of Applied Sciences – Offers programs in business and health management.
North Rhine-Westphalia (Nordrhein-Westfalen)
North Rhine-Westphalia is Germany's most populous state and has various private universities.
- Cologne Business School (CBS) – Focuses on business, management, and international relations.
- FOM University of Applied Sciences – Known for business administration and management.
- University of Applied Sciences Europe (UE) – Offers business, media, and design programs.
- BiTS Business and Information Technology School – Specializes in digital media, business, and entrepreneurship.
Rhineland-Palatinate (Rheinland-Pfalz)
This region offers private universities focused on international business and applied sciences.
- WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management – Known for business and management programs.
- FOM University of Applied Sciences – Offers business, management, and finance courses.
Saarland
Saarland's private universities offer focused programs in management and applied sciences.
- European Management School (EMS) – Specializes in international business and management.
- FOM University of Applied Sciences – Known for business and management programs.
Saxony (Sachsen)
Saxony's private universities emphasize hands-on education and specialize in business, engineering, and design.
- University of Applied Sciences Dresden – Known for engineering and design.
- AKAD University – Specializes in distance learning programs in business and engineering.
Saxony-Anhalt
Saxony-Anhalt's private universities focus on applied sciences and offer degrees in business and technology.
- SRH Hochschule für Gesundheit Gera – Specializes in health sciences and management.
- Hochschule für Wirtschaft und Recht – Focuses on business administration and law.
Schleswig-Holstein
Schleswig-Holstein's private universities are known for interdisciplinary studies and practical education.
- Nordakademie Hochschule der Wirtschaft – Offers dual-study programs in business and engineering.
- FOM University of Applied Sciences – Known for business and social work programs.
Thuringia (Thüringen)
Thuringia has a few private universities focused on career-oriented education and business studies.
- SRH Hochschule für Gesundheit – Known for programs in health and social sciences.
- Steinbeis University – Offers project-based learning with a focus on business and engineering.
Why Choose a Private University in Germany?
Career-Focused Programs: Private universities often design programs that meet industry needs, preparing students for specific careers.
Smaller Class Sizes: With fewer students, private universities provide more personalized instruction and closer relationships with professors.
Flexible Learning Options: Many private universities offer part-time, dual-study, and online programs to fit different lifestyles.
International Connections: Private universities frequently have global partnerships, offering exchange programs and internships abroad.
Modern Facilities: Private universities invest in cutting-edge facilities to support practical learning and research.
How to Apply to Study at a Private University in Germany
Choose a Program: With the help of KCR’s qualified and experienced counselors, identify a program that aligns with your career goals and interests.
Check Requirements: Each private university has admission criteria, often requiring higher qualifications.
Submit an Application: Your counselor at KCR is experienced enough to help you submit an application and follow up with the chosen private university, including building a resume, personal statement, and sometimes an interview.
Scholarships: Private universities offer scholarships or financial aid for eligible students. Your counselor at KCR will keep this in mind and work with you and the university.
Get a Student Visa: International students must need a student visa to study in Germany; KCR has more than two decades of experience helping with visa applications.
Studying at a private university in Germany is an excellent choice for students looking for specialized programs, smaller class sizes, and a career-driven education. With a strong network of industry partners, German private universities provide a competitive edge in the job market, making them an attractive option for students worldwide.
