The University of Kiel offers a wide range of disciplines across its faculties, including:
Arts and Humanities
Business, Economics, and Social Sciences
Medicine
Agriculture and Nutritional Science
Mathematics and Natural Sciences
Engineering
This comprehensive academic offering makes it a center for interdisciplinary research and education, attracting students and scholars from around the world.
CAU is known for its strong research orientation and plays a significant role in scientific advancements, particularly in areas like marine sciences, geosciences, and life sciences. The university is part of the German Excellence Initiative, which helps it fund several innovative research projects and clusters.
The University of Kiel has an extensive network of international partnerships, offering numerous opportunities for global exchange and research collaboration. These programs enhance the educational experience for students and facilitate a broader understanding of various global perspectives.
Kiel University's campus blends historic architecture with modern facilities. It is a compact campus, meaning most of its buildings and facilities are within walking distance of each other, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere among students and faculty.
Student life at CAU is vibrant and diverse, with numerous student groups and clubs ranging from sports teams to cultural and academic societies. The university also supports various initiatives to help integrate international students, including mentorship programs and language courses.
Kiel is a maritime city located along the Baltic Sea. It is internationally known for events like Kiel Week, the largest sailing event in the world and one of Germany's biggest cultural festivals. The city offers a high quality of life, with ample recreational opportunities, especially for those interested in maritime activities and water sports.
Kiel University has a proactive Career Service that offers guidance and resources for job searching, career planning, and skills development. The alumni network of CAU is expansive, providing graduates with valuable connections across various professional fields.
Languages and Literature: Studies include German, English, Romance languages, and Classical languages.
History and Cultural Studies: Programs focus on European and non-European history, art history, and archaeology.
Philosophy and the Arts: Offers courses in philosophy, musicology, and theatrical studies.
Economics and Business Administration: Undergraduate and graduate programs in economics, business administration, and related fields.
Social Sciences: Political science, sociology, and educational sciences.
Biology: From molecular biology to ecology and marine biology.
Chemistry: Courses range from biochemistry to material science chemistry.
Physics: Focus areas include astrophysics, geophysics, and experimental physics.
Geosciences: Studies in geology, meteorology, and oceanography.
Medicine: A comprehensive program leading to a state examination, with numerous specializations in postgraduate studies.
Molecular Life Sciences: Focused on the molecular aspects of biology and medicine.
Electrical Engineering and Information Technology: Covering fundamental electrical engineering, communications, and computing systems.
Mechanical Engineering: Includes studies in materials science, manufacturing, and thermal engineering.
Computer Science: Programs in software development, systems engineering, and theoretical foundations.
Agriculture: Courses in crop science, animal science, and agribusiness management.
Nutritional Sciences: Focus on human nutrition, food science, and dietetics.
Mathematics: Offers pure and applied mathematics.
Computer Science: Includes theoretical and practical aspects of computing.
CAU also offers several international master’s programs taught in English, such as:
Quantitative Economics
Environmental Management
Materials Science and Engineering
Digital Communications
In addition to traditional degree programs, Kiel University offers further education courses and professional development programs tailored to working professionals. These courses often focus on specialized topics within the fields of economics, healthcare, technology, and more.
As a research-oriented university, CAU integrates research components into most of its academic programs, especially at the master's and doctoral levels, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research.
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year in USD |
|---|---|---|
|
B.Sc. in Biology |
3 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
B.Sc. in Chemistry |
3 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
B.A. in English Studies |
3 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
B.Sc. in Physics |
3 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
B.Sc. in Computer Science |
3 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
B.A. in History |
3 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
B.Sc. in Geosciences |
3 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
B.A. in Philosophy |
3 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
B.Eng. in Electrical Engineering |
3 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
B.Sc. in Nutritional Sciences |
3 years |
$300 - $600 |
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year in USD |
|---|---|---|
|
M.Sc. in Quantitative Economics |
2 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
M.Sc. in Environmental Management |
2 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
M.Sc. in Materials Science and Engineering |
2 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
M.Sc. in Digital Communications |
2 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
M.Sc. in Computer Science |
2 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
M.Sc. in Molecular Biology |
2 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
M.A. in English Studies |
2 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
M.Sc. in Physics |
2 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
M.A. in Philosophy |
2 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
M.Eng. in Electrical Engineering |
2 years |
$300 - $600 |
Doctoral Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year in USD |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Marine Science |
3-5 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Molecular Biology |
3-5 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Computer Science |
3-5 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Quantum Mechanics |
3-5 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Environmental Science |
3-5 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Clinical Research |
3-5 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Educational Sciences |
3-5 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Economics |
3-5 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
PhD in History |
3-5 years |
$300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Engineering |
3-5 years |
$300 - $600 |
CAU offers a wide range of programs across various disciplines. For international students, particularly appealing are the master's programs taught in English, such as:
M.Sc. in Quantitative Economics
M.Sc. in Environmental Management
M.Sc. in Materials Science and Engineering
M.Sc. in Digital Communications
These programs are designed to cater to an international audience and do not require proficiency in German, allowing non-German speakers to study in their fields without a language barrier.
For programs taught in German, international students will need to demonstrate proficiency in the German language, usually through standardized tests like TestDaF or DSH. CAU also offers German language courses to help international students improve their language skills, both before and during their studies.
CAU provides a range of services tailored to the needs of international students:
International Center (IC): The IC offers guidance on all aspects of living and studying in Kiel, from visa procedures and accommodation to integration events.
Orientation Week: Before the start of each semester, an orientation week is organized to help international students get acquainted with the university and the city.
Buddy Programs: These programs pair international students with local students to help them settle in and understand the academic and cultural life at CAU.
Kiel is a vibrant city with a strong maritime heritage and is known for hosting Kiel Week, the world’s largest sailing event. The city offers:
Affordable Living Costs: Compared to other major German cities like Munich or Berlin, Kiel is relatively affordable in terms of living expenses.
Cultural and Recreational Activities: From maritime museums to beaches and parks, there are numerous activities to explore in Kiel.
Transport: The city has a well-connected public transport system, making it easy to navigate around and also explore other parts of Germany and Europe.
1. Check Requirements: Before applying, ensure that you meet the academic requirements for the chosen program. For most Bachelor’s programs taught in German, you will need proficiency in German, typically demonstrated by passing a DSH or TestDaF test.
2. Application: Bachelor applications usually go through the "Stiftung für Hochschulzulassung" (Uni-Assist or directly through the university’s portal, depending on your country of origin and chosen program.
3. Submit Documents: You may need to submit certified copies of your high school diploma, language proficiency certificates, a passport photo, and a copy of your passport. Some programs may require additional documents such as letters of motivation or CVs.
4. Wait for Admission: If you meet the qualifications and there’s space available, you will likely be offered admission. For programs with restricted admission (Numerus Clausus), your grades will play a significant role.
5. Enrollment: Once admitted, you’ll need to formally enroll at the university, which involves submitting further documentation, possibly including proof of health insurance, and paying a semester fee.
1. Program Specific Requirements: Check the specific requirements for the Master’s program you are interested in. Some programs, especially those taught in English, may not require German language proficiency.
2. Application: Apply directly through the university’s online application system for Master’s programs. Deadlines and specific documentation required can vary greatly between faculties.
3. Submit Required Documents: This usually includes your undergraduate degree certificate, transcripts, proof of language proficiency, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Some programs might require a portfolio or GRE/GMAT scores.
4. Admission Decision: Admission decisions are typically based on academic qualifications, fit with the program, and sometimes interviews or additional assessments.
5. Enrollment: Similar to Bachelor’s enrollment, but often with additional requirements such as specific registration for classes.
1. Find a Supervisor: Unlike in many countries, in Germany, you generally need to find a professor who will supervise your dissertation before you formally apply.
2. Proposal Submission: Along with finding a supervisor, you will likely need to submit a research proposal outlining your planned doctoral project.
3. Application and Enrollment: Once a supervisor agrees to support your project, you apply for admission to the doctoral studies department. Documentation typically includes your Master’s degree certificate, a detailed CV, and your research proposal.
4. Doctoral Studies Committee Approval: Your application and proposal need approval from the faculty’s doctoral studies committee.
5. Enrollment: Upon approval, you enroll as a doctoral student, which may involve additional administrative steps and semester fees.
1. Winter Semester: This is the primary intake for most programs and begins in October. The application deadline for international students is typically by July 15th, but it is crucial to check specific program deadlines as some may vary.
2. Summer Semester: Begins in April with a more limited selection of programs available for this intake. The application deadline for international students is generally January 15th. Again, confirm deadlines for specific programs as they can differ.
The eligibility criteria for admission to CAU vary based on the level of study and the specific program:
High School Diploma: Applicants need a secondary school leaving certificate equivalent to the German Abitur. Non-German certificates may need to be evaluated through Uni-Assist.
Language Proficiency: For programs taught in German, proof of German language proficiency is required (TestDaF, DSH, or equivalent). Some programs offered in English might require English proficiency tests (TOEFL, IELTS).
Subject-specific Requirements: Depending on the program, there may be additional requirements such as specific courses or grades in high school.
Bachelor’s Degree: An undergraduate degree equivalent to a German bachelor’s degree in a related field.
Language Proficiency: Similar to the Bachelor’s programs, proficiency in the language of instruction (German or English) is required. The specific level of proficiency will depend on the program.
Relevant Qualifications: Many programs require specific academic backgrounds, relevant work experience, or specific entry examinations.
Master’s Degree: A master's degree or equivalent in a related field.
Supervisor Agreement: Potential PhD candidates must typically find a faculty member at CAU who agrees to supervise their dissertation.
Research Proposal: A detailed research proposal that outlines the intended research project is often required.
Language Proficiency: Depending on the research group and supervisor requirements, proficiency in German or English may be needed.
Ranking Organization |
Ranking of Christian-Albrecht University of Kiel |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not Specified in Top Rankings |
|
U.S. News & World Report Global Universities |
Within Top 500 globally |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Benefits |
Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
|
DAAD Scholarships |
International students from all countries |
Partial to full funding, monthly stipend, health insurance, travel allowance |
Usually 1 year, renewable |
|
Deutschlandstipendium |
Outstanding students at CAU, based on merit and need |
€300 per month |
1 year, can be renewed |
|
Erasmus+ |
Students participating in exchange programs within Europe |
Monthly stipend to cover living costs |
Duration of the exchange |
|
CAU Excellence Scholarships |
International doctoral students |
Stipend and partial fee waiver |
Up to 3 years |
|
Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships |
Students with excellent academic records and social commitment |
Monthly stipend, various allowances |
Usually 2 years for Masters and up to 3 years for PhD |
|
Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarship |
Outstanding students with a commitment to social values |
Monthly stipend, health insurance, family allowance |
Up to the standard period of study |
Accommodation Type |
Description |
Cost per Month (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
Student Dormitories |
Operated by the Studentenwerk Schleswig-Holstein, offering single rooms or shared apartments. |
€200 to €350 |
|
Private Housing |
Apartments or shared flats available in the city, not affiliated with the university. |
€300 to €600 |
|
Temporary Housing |
Short-term options like hostels or temporary rentals while finding permanent accommodation. |
€400 to €700 (short-term) |
Student Dormitories: These are the most affordable options, typically consisting of a private room with shared kitchen and bathroom facilities. They are in high demand, so it's advisable to apply as early as possible through the Studentenwerk Schleswig-Holstein website.
Private Housing: Offers more privacy and variety. Prices vary widely based on location, size, and condition of the property. It’s common for students to share larger apartments to reduce costs.
Temporary Housing: Useful for international students or those who haven't secured long-term accommodation prior to arriving in Kiel. This option is more expensive due to its short-term nature and convenience.
CAU's campus includes a variety of facilities aimed at enriching student life and supporting academic pursuits:
Facility Type |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Libraries |
Several specialized libraries with extensive collections and study areas. |
|
Sporting Facilities |
Sports halls, fitness classes, and outdoor sports fields. |
|
Cafeterias and Dining Halls |
Multiple dining options offering affordable meals catering to diverse diets. |
|
Student Service Center |
One-stop-shop for administrative needs, counseling, and support services. |
|
Health Center |
Provides medical services, including psychological counseling. |
CAU is known for its strong emphasis on research and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students can expect a rigorous academic environment with access to excellent facilities, including state-of-the-art labs, extensive libraries, and modern lecture halls. The university offers a wide range of courses across disciplines, encouraging students to explore different fields of interest.
Clubs and Societies: CAU hosts numerous student organizations and clubs, ranging from sports teams to cultural societies, environmental groups, and academic clubs. These organizations provide opportunities for students to engage with their hobbies, develop new skills, and meet like-minded peers.
Events and Festivals: The university and the city of Kiel are hosts to various cultural and academic events throughout the year. Kiel Week, in particular, is one of the world’s largest sailing events and includes a rich program of cultural festivities, attracting visitors from around the globe.
International Community: With a significant number of international students, CAU is a melting pot of cultures, offering a global perspective and fostering a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds.
Maritime Activities: Given its location by the Baltic Sea, Kiel offers abundant water-related activities, including sailing, windsurfing, and swimming.
Green Spaces: The city is dotted with parks and recreational areas where students can relax or engage in various outdoor activities. The proximity to the sea and rural areas like the Schleswig-Holstein countryside provides great escapes for nature lovers.
Sporting Facilities: CAU provides comprehensive sports facilities, including gyms, sports halls, and fields where students can participate in both organized sports and casual recreational activities.
Accommodation: Most students live in student dormitories managed by the Studentenwerk, which provides affordable housing options close to campus. Private rentals are also available but tend to be more expensive.
Cost of Living: Kiel is relatively affordable compared to other major German cities, making it an attractive location for students who need to manage their budgets carefully.
Academic Support: CAU offers various support services, including tutoring and mentoring programs, to help students succeed academically.
Health and Wellbeing: The university has a health center offering medical and psychological services to ensure the wellbeing of its students.
Career Services: The university’s Career Service provides counseling, workshops, and networking opportunities to help students prepare for their professional lives after graduation.
CAU Career Center: The Career Center at CAU offers a variety of resources aimed at boosting students' employability:
Career Counseling: Students can receive personalized advice on career planning, resume building, and job search strategies.
Workshops and Training: These sessions cover practical skills such as interview preparation, business communication, and job application processes in Germany and internationally.
Career Days and Job Fairs: CAU regularly organizes career events that connect students directly with potential employers from various industries. These events are great opportunities for networking and learning about job openings.
Internship and Job Placement Support: The Career Center helps students find internships and job placements relevant to their fields of study, which is crucial for gaining practical experience and improving employment prospects.
Internships are highly encouraged and often form an integral part of the curriculum at CAU, especially in applied sciences and business-related programs. The university has ties with various companies and research institutions both locally and internationally, facilitating opportunities for students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
CAU maintains strong collaborations with industries in and around Kiel, particularly in fields like marine sciences, environmental technologies, biomedical sciences, and renewable energy. These collaborations not only enhance the university's research capabilities but also open up numerous pathways for student placements and job opportunities after graduation.
CAU has an active alumni network that plays a significant role in career development for current students. Alumni often return to CAU to share their experiences, participate in networking events, and sometimes recruit new graduates for their own companies.
Graduates of CAU find opportunities across various sectors:
Academia and Research: Many PhD graduates continue in academia or research institutions in Germany and abroad.
Public Sector: With a strong emphasis on social sciences, law, and policy studies, graduates are well-prepared for careers in government and public administration.
Private Sector: Engineers, IT professionals, and business graduates from CAU are sought after by technology firms, startups, and multinational corporations.
CAU’s International Center offers additional support to international students, including help with visas, legal work requirements in Germany, and integration into the German job market.
Numerus Clausus (NC): Many undergraduate programs at German universities, including CAU, utilize a system known as Numerus Clausus (NC). This system is not a selection process based on a quota but rather a threshold determined by the grades of the last admitted applicant. If your grade average meets or exceeds the NC value for a specific program, you are generally eligible for admission. The NC changes every semester depending on the number of applicants and available spots.
Capacity: Some programs at CAU may have limited capacity, especially those in highly sought fields like Medicine or Psychology. For these, the university will only accept students up to its capacity, which can make these programs more competitive.
Program-Specific Requirements: Admission to Master's and PhD programs often involves additional criteria, such as specific undergraduate degrees, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and sometimes entrance exams or interviews.
For international students, the process involves some additional steps:
Recognition of Foreign Qualifications: International qualifications must be recognized as equivalent to the German Abitur (for Bachelor's programs) or a relevant Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s programs). This evaluation is often facilitated through the uni-assist service.
Language Requirements: Non-native German speakers need to demonstrate sufficient German language proficiency through standardized tests like TestDaF or DSH for programs taught in German. Programs taught in English will require proof of English proficiency, such as TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Central Location: The main campus of CAU is situated in the western part of Kiel, near the Kiel Fjord, which is part of the Baltic Sea. This location places the university at the heart of the city, making it easily accessible from various parts of Kiel.
Academic Buildings: The majority of the faculties and academic buildings are clustered around the central campus area. This includes the humanities and social sciences, natural sciences, and the law faculty. The layout fosters an interdisciplinary approach and facilitates easy movement between different departments.
University Medical Center: CAU’s medical faculty and the University Medical Center are located slightly north of the main campus. This area is dedicated to medical education and research and includes state-of-the-art facilities for medical training and patient care.
Technikzentrum: The Faculty of Engineering is housed in a separate campus known as the Technikzentrum, located in the outskirts of Kiel. This area includes specialized laboratories and research facilities for engineering studies.
Libraries and Learning Centers: CAU boasts several libraries, including the central university library and various faculty-specific libraries, which provide extensive resources for student and faculty research.
Sporting Facilities: The university offers comprehensive sports facilities, including a sports hall, fitness centers, and fields for outdoor sports, which are mostly located near the main campus.
Student Housing: Student dormitories are spread throughout the city but are well connected by public transport, ensuring that students can easily commute to and from the university.
Kiel’s public transport network provides excellent connectivity to the university. Bus lines and other public transport options are readily available, facilitating easy access to the campus from different parts of the city and surrounding areas.
The university’s location contributes to a lively student atmosphere both on campus and in the city. Kiel’s cultural offerings, shopping, and recreational activities are all within easy reach for students, enhancing the overall student experience at CAU.
