Established: The university was established in 1964, originally as a state engineering school, and has since developed into a comprehensive university of applied sciences with a strong focus on technical and business disciplines.
Hochschule Offenburg offers a range of Bachelor's and Master's degree programs across four main faculties:
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Process Engineering
Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology
Faculty of Business Administration and Industrial Engineering
Faculty of Media and Information
The university also includes the Graduate School, which offers additional Master’s programs taught in English, designed to attract an international student body.
Practical Orientation: Courses at the University of Applied Sciences Offenburg are designed to be highly practical and application-oriented. The curriculum often includes project work, internships, and collaboration with industry partners.
International Focus: The university has a strong international orientation, offering several courses in English and participating in various exchange programs like Erasmus+. There are numerous opportunities for students to study abroad or engage in international research projects.
Research and Innovation: Applied research is a core component of the academic framework, with a focus on areas such as renewable energy, media and communication technologies, and sustainable business practices. The university collaborates with local and international companies and other research institutions.
Main Campus: Located in Offenburg, the campus offers modern facilities, including well-equipped laboratories, a central library, media centers, and sports facilities.
Gengenbach Campus: A smaller campus located in the picturesque town of Gengenbach, hosting mainly business and media-related courses.
Vibrant Community: The university fosters a vibrant campus life with a wide range of student clubs, cultural events, and sports activities.
Support Services: International Office provides comprehensive support for international students, from application processing to integration into campus life, including orientation programs, German language courses, and assistance with accommodation.
Offenburg: A medium-sized town in the state of Baden-Württemberg, close to the French border and the Black Forest. It offers a high quality of life with beautiful surroundings, making it an appealing place for students.
Mechanical Engineering
Process Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Information Technology
Media and Information Technology
Business Administration
Industrial Engineering
Media Design
Media and Communication Informatics
Energy Conversion and Management
Communication and Media Engineering
Process Engineering
Renewable Energy and Data Engineering
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (approx. in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Mechanical Engineering |
3.5 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
Process Engineering |
3.5 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
Industrial Engineering |
3.5 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
3.5 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
Information Technology |
3.5 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
Media and Information Technology |
3.5 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
Business Administration |
3.5 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
Media Design |
3.5 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
Media and Communication Informatics |
3.5 years |
$300 - $400 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (approx. in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
M.Sc. in Communication and Media Engineering |
1.5-2 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
M.Sc. in Energy Conversion and Management |
1.5-2 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
M.Sc. in Power and Data Engineering |
1.5-2 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
M.Eng. in Process Engineering |
1.5-2 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
M.Sc. in Renewable Energy and Data Engineering |
1.5-2 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
M.Sc. in Biotechnology |
1.5-2 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
M.Eng. in Business Consulting |
1.5-2 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering and International Sales Management |
1.5-2 years |
$300 - $400 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (approx. in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Cooperative PhD in Engineering |
3-5 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
Cooperative PhD in Renewable Energy |
3-5 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
Cooperative PhD in Process Engineering |
3-5 years |
$300 - $400 |
|
Cooperative PhD in Media Technology |
3-5 years |
$300 - $400 |
English-Taught Master's Programs: The university offers several master's programs taught entirely in English, particularly through its Graduate School. These include specializations like Communication and Media Engineering, Energy Conversion and Management, and Renewable Energy and Data Engineering. These programs are designed to attract and accommodate international students.
German-Taught Programs: For bachelor's and some master's programs taught in German, international students are required to demonstrate proficiency in the German language. The university provides German language courses and summer schools to help students meet this requirement.
Application Process: International students typically apply through the standard online application system or Uni-Assist, a service that processes applications to German universities for international candidates.
Admission Requirements: These include relevant academic qualifications, language proficiency evidence (TOEFL, IELTS for English programs, and TestDaF, DSH for German programs), and specific documents like motivation letters, CVs, and references, depending on the program.
Low Tuition Fees: Like most public universities in Germany, the University of Applied Sciences Offenburg does not charge tuition fees for most programs. Instead, students pay a nominal semester fee, which covers administrative costs and includes a semester ticket for public transport.
Semester Fee: The semester fee is approximately €150-250 (around $165-$275 USD), which includes a public transportation ticket and other student services.
International Office: Offers comprehensive support, from pre-arrival information to on-campus integration. Services include assistance with visas, housing, orientation programs, and integration activities.
Accommodation: The university assists international students in finding suitable accommodation, usually in student dormitories or through private rentals.
Vibrant Campus Life: The university boasts a rich campus life with various clubs, sports, and cultural activities designed to integrate international students into the university community.
Cultural Integration: Events, excursions, and workshops are regularly organized to help international students understand and immerse themselves in German culture.
Identify Your Program of Interest: First, review the university’s available programs to find one that aligns with your academic background and career goals. Pay close attention to whether the program is taught in English or German, as this will affect the language proficiency requirements.
Academic Requirements: Ensure that you meet the academic prerequisites for the chosen program. This usually involves having a relevant bachelor’s degree for master's programs or a secondary school diploma equivalent to the German Abitur for bachelor's programs.
Language Proficiency: For English-taught programs, you typically need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. For German-taught programs, proof of German language proficiency through tests like TestDaF or DSH is required.
Transcripts and Certificates: Obtain official transcripts and certificates from your previous educational institutions. These may need to be translated into English or German and officially certified.
Language Test Results: Prepare your language test results for submission.
Letter of Motivation or Personal Statement: Many programs require a letter of motivation that outlines your academic interests and professional goals.
CV/Resume: Update your CV with your latest academic and professional achievements.
Letters of Recommendation: Some programs may require letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
Application Portal or Uni-Assist: Depending on the program, you may need to apply through the university’s own application portal or through Uni-Assist, a common service used by German universities to process applications from international students.
Application Fee: If applying through Uni-Assist, be prepared to pay a handling fee.
Review Process: After submission, your application will be reviewed by the university. This can take several weeks depending on the program and the volume of applications.
Interviews: Some programs may require you to participate in an interview, which could be conducted online.
Offer of Admission: If successful, you’ll receive an offer of admission which you need to formally accept to proceed.
Enrollment: Follow the university’s instructions for enrollment, which will include submitting additional documents and paying the semester fee.
Visa Application: If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, apply for a student visa as soon as you receive your admission letter.
Accommodation and Health Insurance: Arrange for accommodation and purchase health insurance, which are required before enrolling at the university.
Orientation Program: Participate in orientation programs designed to help you settle into your new environment and start your studies at the University of Applied Sciences Offenburg.
Winter Semester: Starts in October. The application period generally runs from early April to July 15th for international students. This is the primary intake for most programs and offers the fullest selection of courses.
Summer Semester: Starts in March. The application deadline is usually around January 15th for international students. Note that not all programs may offer a start in the summer semester.
School Leaving Certificate: Applicants need a secondary school leaving certificate equivalent to the German Abitur, which qualifies them for university study.
Language Proficiency: For programs taught in German, proficiency in German is required, typically demonstrated by passing a recognized test like TestDaF or DSH. Some programs offered in English might require proof of English proficiency, such as TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Specific Course Prerequisites: Depending on the program, additional qualifications such as specific coursework or practical experience may be necessary.
Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant field from an accredited institution.
Academic Performance: Some programs may have specific grade requirements or demand a preliminary examination.
Language Proficiency: For English-taught programs, a good command of English (TOEFL or IELTS) is required. For German-taught programs, sufficient proficiency in German is necessary.
Work Experience: For some professional master’s programs, relevant work experience may be considered in the admission decision.
Scholarship Name |
Who Can Apply |
Support Offered |
|---|---|---|
|
DAAD Scholarships |
International students |
Covers living expenses, travel, health insurance, and sometimes tuition fees |
|
Baden-Württemberg Scholarship |
International students from partner institutions |
Financial support to foster international exchange |
|
Deutschlandstipendium |
High-achieving students from all nationalities |
Financial support of 300 EUR per month for at least one year |
|
Internal Scholarships by the University |
Students facing financial difficulties or showing exceptional community involvement |
Usually a one-time financial aid or a waiver of semester fees |
|
Erasmus+ Mobility Grants |
Students studying or interning within Europe |
Financial support for mobility within European countries |
Accommodation Type |
Description |
Monthly Cost (approx. in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Student Dormitories |
Rooms in shared apartments or single apartments, often with shared kitchen and bathroom facilities. These are located both on campus and in the city. |
$250 to $400 |
|
Private Rentals |
Apartments or rooms rented directly from private landlords. More privacy and variety but usually higher cost than dorms. |
$400 to $600 |
|
Shared Apartments (WGs) |
Shared living arrangements where students rent a room in a larger apartment with other students. Common areas like the kitchen and bathroom are shared. |
$300 to $500 |
|
Temporary Housing |
Short-term housing such as hostels or temporary rental apartments, useful for students who are still seeking long-term accommodation. |
$30 to $50 per night |
Practical Learning: The university emphasizes a hands-on approach to education, particularly in fields like engineering, IT, and media. Students often work on practical projects and collaborate with local industries.
Innovative Research: Offenburg is known for its focus on applied research, particularly in energy and environmental technologies, providing students opportunities to engage in meaningful research initiatives.
Modern Resources: Students have access to modern laboratories, computer centers, and libraries stocked with all the necessary academic materials.
Sports and Recreation: The campus offers various sports facilities, including gyms and sports fields. Regular sports events and university competitions are held, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.
Cafeterias: Several cafeterias and snack bars provide a variety of meal options at student-friendly prices.
International Office: Offers comprehensive support for international students, including orientation programs, German language courses, and help with administrative matters such as visas and housing.
Career Services: The Career Center helps students with resumes, interview preparation, and job placements, providing workshops and individual counseling sessions.
Clubs and Societies: There are numerous student-run organizations focusing on everything from academic interests to social causes and leisure activities. This includes cultural clubs, sports teams, and academic groups.
Events and Workshops: The university regularly organizes workshops, guest lectures, and cultural events, including international nights, which celebrate the diversity of the student body.
Welcoming Community: Offenburg is a medium-sized town with a welcoming atmosphere. It offers a safe and friendly environment for students, with all the necessary amenities nearby.
Cultural Opportunities: The town and the surrounding region are rich in cultural history, providing numerous opportunities for exploration and recreation. This includes museums, theaters, and traditional festivals.
Location Advantage: Located in the scenic region of Baden-Württemberg near the Black Forest, students can enjoy a range of outdoor activities. Proximity to countries like France and Switzerland also makes international travel easy.
Student Housing: The university assists with finding accommodation, offering options in student residences and private housing. Living in Offenburg is generally affordable, with options to suit different budgets.
Volunteering: There are opportunities to engage with the local community through volunteering, which not only helps students integrate better into German society but also enriches their global perspective and social responsibility.
Career Center: The university's Career Center plays a pivotal role in helping students prepare for the job market. It offers a range of services, including resume and cover letter workshops, interview preparation sessions, and job search strategies.
Job Fairs and Networking Events: The university regularly hosts job fairs and industry networking events that bring together students and potential employers. These events are excellent opportunities for students to make professional connections, learn about available positions, and secure internships or job placements.
Company Presentations: Throughout the academic year, various companies are invited to present on campus, providing insights into career opportunities within their organizations and industry trends.
Mandatory Internships: Many programs at the University of Applied Sciences Offenburg include mandatory internships, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in their field of study. These internships can be critical stepping stones towards full-time employment.
Internship Placement Assistance: The Career Center assists students in finding suitable internship opportunities, both locally and internationally. This support is crucial for international students unfamiliar with the local job market.
Collaborations with Industry: Offenburg University has established strong ties with companies in relevant sectors such as engineering, IT, and media. These partnerships often lead to collaborative projects, internships, and direct recruitment of graduates.
Applied Research Opportunities: Students are encouraged to participate in applied research projects in collaboration with industry partners. These projects can enhance students’ practical skills and increase their attractiveness to potential employers.
Alumni Services: The university maintains a robust alumni network that can be a valuable resource for current students. Alumni often participate in mentorship programs, share job openings, and offer career advice to students.
Networking Opportunities: Regular alumni events provide a platform for students to connect with graduates who are established in their fields, offering insights and potential job leads.
Career Guidance for International Students: The Career Center provides additional support for international students, helping them navigate the job market in Germany and understand the legal requirements for working in the country.
Job Listings: The university maintains an online job portal that lists internships and job openings specifically targeted at its students, providing a convenient resource for job hunting.
Capacity of Programs: Some programs at the University of Applied Sciences Offenburg may be limited in capacity and use a "Numerus Clausus" (NC), which is a minimum grade requirement based on the demand for the course and the grades of the applicants in a given year. If a program has more applicants than places available, the NC becomes the deciding factor.
Bachelor’s Programs: Applicants must have a qualification equivalent to the German Abitur (higher education entrance qualification) or a recognized equivalent from another country. Additionally, specific programs may require relevant subject-specific qualifications or practical experience.
Master’s Programs: Applicants need a relevant bachelor’s degree with a certain grade point average. Some programs might also require professional experience or specific skills, depending on the field of study.
For German-taught programs, proficiency in German (usually B2 level or higher) is required, confirmed by standard tests like TestDaF or DSH.
For English-taught programs, proficiency in English (TOEFL or IELTS scores) is necessary.
Address: The main campus is situated at Badstraße 24, 77652 Offenburg, Germany. This campus houses the majority of the university’s faculties and provides a comprehensive range of facilities including lecture halls, laboratories, libraries, and administrative services.
Facilities: Equipped with modern facilities, the main campus supports a practical and applied learning environment, featuring state-of-the-art laboratories and technology centers that are key to the university’s focus on engineering, media, and business programs.
Location: The North Campus is located just a short distance from the main campus and includes additional facilities for specific research and development projects. It complements the main campus with additional workshops, laboratories, and office spaces for faculty and students.
Specialization: This campus focuses more on specific engineering and technology disciplines, facilitating deeper research and practical projects in collaboration with industry partners.
Address: The campus in Gengenbach is approximately 10 kilometers east of Offenburg. It’s housed in a historic monastery building, which adds a unique cultural and architectural aspect to the educational environment.
Programs: Gengenbach campus primarily hosts programs related to Business Administration and International Business Consulting. This picturesque setting provides a unique backdrop for studies focused on business and management.
Public Transportation: Offenburg is well-connected by public transport. Both campuses in Offenburg are easily accessible by bus from the city center, and the region’s train station offers excellent connections to major German cities and neighboring countries.
Proximity to Strasbourg: Offenburg is located near the border with France, just about 20 kilometers from Strasbourg, offering students and staff easy access to cross-border academic and cultural exchanges.
City Amenities: Offenburg itself is a medium-sized town that offers a high quality of life with all necessary amenities including shopping centers, restaurants, parks, and recreational facilities. The town is known for its vibrant community life and numerous festivals.
Outdoor Activities: The location near the Black Forest and the Rhine Valley provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and skiing during the winter months.
