Founded in 1780, the University of Münster is steeped in history. It has grown to become one of the leading universities in Germany, known for its commitment to both teaching and research.
Named after Prince-Bishop Wilhelm von Münster, the university has evolved through the centuries, shaping its strong identity in the academic world.
Wide Range of Disciplines: WWU offers a comprehensive range of subjects across its 15 faculties. These include Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Mathematics, Computer Science, Law, Economics, Business Administration, Medicine, and more.
Research Excellence: The university is renowned for its strong research output, particularly in fields like religion, history, medicine, chemistry, physics, and law. It is part of the German Universities Excellence Initiative, which funds cutting-edge research in several German universities.
International Collaboration: WWU is engaged in extensive international cooperation, including partnerships with universities around the world, facilitating a global exchange of knowledge and research.
Spread Across the City: The University of Münster does not have a central campus but instead, its buildings and facilities are integrated into the city, spanning various locations.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: The university boasts modern research facilities, well-equipped laboratories, comprehensive libraries, and comfortable lecture halls. It also offers excellent IT infrastructure and support services.
Vibrant Student Community: With over 45,000 students, WWU has a dynamic student life. Numerous student groups, sports activities, and cultural events enrich the campus experience.
Sports and Recreation: The university sports program is one of the largest in Germany, offering a wide range of sports and fitness activities.
Student Services: WWU provides extensive support services including career guidance, psychological counseling, and academic support.
Münster, the City: Known as the "bicycle capital of Germany," Münster is a charming city with a high quality of life. Its historic architecture, numerous parks, and lively cultural scene make it an attractive place for students and academics alike.
Accessibility and Transport: Münster is well-connected by road and rail, making it easily accessible from other major German cities and European destinations.
Green University: Münster University is committed to sustainability, with initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices among its students and staff.
Faculty of Protestant Theology
Bachelor and Master in Protestant Theology
Faculty of Catholic Theology
Bachelor and Master in Catholic Theology
Faculty of Law
State Examination in Law
LL.M. programs
Faculty of Business Administration and Economics
Bachelor and Master in Economics
Bachelor and Master in Business Administration
Master in Information Systems
Faculty of Medicine
State Examination in Medicine
Master in Public Health
Master in Epidemiology
Faculty of Educational and Social Science
Bachelor and Master in Educational Science
Bachelor and Master in Social Work
Faculty of Psychology and Sports Science
Bachelor and Master in Psychology
Bachelor and Master in Sports Science
Faculty of History and Philosophy
Bachelor and Master in History
Bachelor and Master in Philosophy
Faculty of Philology
Bachelor and Master in English Studies
Bachelor and Master in German Studies
Bachelor and Master in Romance Languages
Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science
Bachelor and Master in Mathematics
Bachelor and Master in Computer Science
Faculty of Physics
Bachelor and Master in Physics
Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy
Bachelor and Master in Chemistry
Bachelor and Master in Pharmacy
Faculty of Biology
Bachelor and Master in Biology
Faculty of Earth Sciences
Bachelor and Master in Geography
Bachelor and Master in Geosciences
Faculty of Music
Bachelor and Master in Music
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Protestant Theology |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Catholic Theology |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Law (State Examination) |
4-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Economics |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Business Administration |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Medicine (State Examination) |
6 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Educational Science |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Social Work |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Psychology |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Sports Science |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
History |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Philosophy |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
English Studies |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
German Studies |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Romance Languages |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Mathematics |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Computer Science |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Physics |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Chemistry |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Pharmacy |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Biology |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Geography |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Geosciences |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Music |
3 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Protestant Theology |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master of Catholic Theology |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
LL.M. |
1-2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Economics |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Business Administration |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Information Systems |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Public Health |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Epidemiology |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Educational Science |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Social Work |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Psychology |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Sports Science |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in History |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Philosophy |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in English Studies |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in German Studies |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Romance Languages |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Mathematics |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Computer Science |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Physics |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Chemistry |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Pharmacy |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Biology |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Geography |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Geosciences |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
Master in Music |
2 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
PhD/Doctorate Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Protestant Theology |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Catholic Theology |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Law |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Economics |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Business Administration |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Information Systems |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Medicine |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Public Health |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Educational Science |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Social Work |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Psychology |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Sports Science |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in History |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Philosophy |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in English Studies |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in German Studies |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Romance Languages |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Mathematics |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Computer Science |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Physics |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Chemistry |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Pharmacy |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Biology |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Geography |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Geosciences |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
|
PhD in Music |
3-5 years |
Approx. $300 - $600 |
Wide Range of Programs: WWU offers over 120 subjects across various faculties, including humanities, sciences, law, economics, and medicine. Many of these programs offer courses in English, particularly at the master's and doctoral levels, making them accessible to non-German speakers.
Research Opportunities: As a research-intensive university, WWU provides numerous opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research, often in collaboration with international researchers and institutions.
German-taught Programs: Most undergraduate programs and some postgraduate programs are taught in German. Proficiency in German is typically required, and international students must pass recognized language tests such as TestDaF, DSH, or Goethe-Institut examinations.
English-taught Programs: For programs taught in English, proficiency tests such as TOEFL or IELTS are usually required unless the student's prior education was in English.
Undergraduate Applications: Generally handled through the uni-assist portal, which evaluates international qualifications to ensure they meet German university standards.
Postgraduate Applications: Often submitted directly to the university, with specific requirements detailed by each faculty or department.
International Office: The key resource for international students, offering guidance on everything from visas and housing to integration into university life.
Orientation Events: Organized at the beginning of each semester to help international students settle in, understand the academic system, and meet other students.
German Language Courses: Offered for all levels, from beginners to advanced, these courses are designed to help international students improve their German language skills.
Tuition Fees: As with most public universities in Germany, WWU charges no tuition fees for consecutive studies, only a semester fee that covers administrative costs and includes a semester ticket for public transport.
Living Costs: Münster is relatively affordable compared to other German cities, but students should budget for housing, food, health insurance, and personal expenses.
Vibrant Campus Life: WWU's student body includes a large number of international students, offering a multicultural environment. Numerous student clubs and organizations cater to diverse interests, including international student groups.
Accommodation: The university assists with finding accommodation, with options including student dormitories and private housing.
City of Münster: Known for its high quality of life, Münster is a historic city with a lively cultural scene, extensive bike paths, and a large student population, making it an ideal university town.
DAAD Scholarships: scholarships are available for international students through the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).
Erasmus+: European students can benefit from the Erasmus+ program for study and internship opportunities.
1. Check Eligibility: Ensure your secondary school certificate is recognized as equivalent to the German Abitur. You can check this through the ANABIN database or the uni-assist portal.
2. Language Proficiency: Most bachelor’s programs are taught in German. You will need to demonstrate proficiency in German, usually through tests like TestDaF or DSH.
3. Application via Uni-assist: Most international applications must go through uni-assist, which evaluates international school certificates.
4. Submission of Documents: Submit certified copies of your high school diploma, language certificates, passport, and other required documents.
5. Application Fee: Pay the uni-assist handling fee.
6. Admission Notification: If your application is successful, you will receive an admission letter from WWU.
7. Enrollment: Once in Germany, you must personally enroll at the university by submitting your documents and paying the semester fee.
1. Check Specific Requirements: Each master’s program has specific entry requirements, including prerequisites in related subject areas.
2. Language Proficiency: If the program is taught in English, provide proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS). If in German, provide German language proficiency evidence.
3. Direct Application: Applications for master’s programs are usually sent directly to WWU or through uni-assist, depending on the program.
4. Submission of Documents: Include your bachelor’s degree certificate, transcripts, CV, letter of motivation, and potentially letters of recommendation.
5. Admission Notification: Await a response from the university. Some programs may require interviews or additional tests.
6. Enrollment: Complete the enrollment process upon arrival in Münster.
1. Find a Supervisor: Before applying, you should contact potential supervisors who are interested in your research proposal.
2. Application Submission: Submit your application, including a detailed research proposal, CV, academic transcripts, master's degree certificate, and references directly to the faculty or graduate school.
3. Acceptance and Enrollment: If accepted, you will receive a letter of acceptance, which can be used for visa applications. Enrollment typically involves personal registration at the university.
University of Münster typically offers two main intake periods for its programs:
Winter Semester
Starts: October
Application Deadline: July 15 for most programs. Some programs might have different deadlines, so it's important to check specific program details.
Summer Semester
Starts: April
Application Deadline: January 15 for most programs. Again, confirm specific deadlines for individual programs.
Educational Qualification: Applicants need a higher education entrance qualification, such as a high school diploma equivalent to the German Abitur. International qualifications must be recognized as equivalent by German authorities.
Language Proficiency:
For German-taught programs: Proficiency in German is required, usually demonstrated by passing a recognized test such as TestDaF, DSH, or similar.
For English-taught programs: Proof of English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS is necessary.
Educational Qualification: A relevant bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required. Specific requirements can vary depending on the master's program, including particular coursework or fields of study.
Language Proficiency:
For German-taught programs: Sufficient proficiency in German.
For English-taught programs: Adequate proficiency in English, generally verified through standardized tests.
Educational Qualification: A master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field is typically necessary.
Additional Requirements: Admission often involves submitting a research proposal and finding a faculty supervisor who agrees to oversee the doctoral project.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Benefits |
|---|---|---|
|
Deutschlandstipendium |
Outstanding academic achievements, social engagement, personal circumstances |
Financial support of €300 per month |
|
DAAD Scholarships |
International students at various study levels, particularly master's and doctoral degrees |
typically includes a monthly stipend, travel costs, insurance, and sometimes study fees |
|
Erasmus+ Mobility Scholarships |
Students participating in the Erasmus+ program for study or internships abroad |
Financial support for living costs and travel expenses during the program |
|
WWU Promotions Scholarships |
Doctoral students at WWU conducting high-quality research |
Monthly stipends and research support |
|
WWU Completion Grants |
Doctoral students nearing the completion of their thesis |
Financial support to help complete the thesis on time |
|
WWU Scholarships for International Students |
International students needing financial assistance |
Financial aid varies depending on the specific fund |
Facility Type |
Description |
Cost of Accommodation |
|---|---|---|
|
University Dormitories |
Managed by the Studentenwerk Münster, offering a range of options including single rooms, shared apartments, and studio apartments. Located throughout Münster, close to various university facilities. |
Approx. €250 - €400 per month |
|
Private Housing |
Options include renting private apartments or shared flats (WGs) in Münster. Offers more independence and can vary in price depending on size and location. |
Approx. €300 - €600 per month |
|
Temporary Housing |
Suitable for short stays such as guesthouses or temporary rental apartments, often used by international students and guests. |
Approx. €400 - €800 per month |
Comprehensive Academic Offerings: WWU offers a wide array of programs across humanities, sciences, law, economics, and medicine, fostering a multidisciplinary academic environment.
Research Opportunities: The university is involved in cutting-edge research, offering numerous opportunities for students to engage in research projects and initiatives across various disciplines.
Student Groups and Societies: There are numerous student organizations at WWU, ranging from sports teams and musical groups to academic societies and cultural clubs. These groups provide students opportunities to pursue interests outside of their academic studies.
International Clubs: Specific clubs and programs cater to international students, helping them integrate into university life and the local community.
University Events: The university calendar features a variety of events, including lectures, concerts, exhibitions, and festivals. Events like the "Schlossgartenfest" are highlights, drawing large numbers of students and faculty.
Student-Run Events: Students at WWU are actively involved in organizing events, which include parties, cultural nights, and department-specific gatherings, fostering a lively social scene.
Student Support Services: WWU offers comprehensive support through services like academic advising, psychological counseling, and career guidance.
International Office: Provides specialized support for international students, including orientation sessions, German language courses, and assistance with administrative matters.
Sports Programs: The university sports center offers a wide range of athletic activities, from traditional sports like football and swimming to unique offerings like sailing and horseback riding.
Recreational Facilities: Students have access to modern sports facilities, including gyms, sports fields, and a swimming pool, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.
Housing Options: The university collaborates with the Studentenwerk Münster to provide student housing, which includes dormitories and shared apartments, conveniently located throughout the city.
Living in Münster: Known as the bicycle capital of Germany, Münster is an exceptionally bike-friendly city, making it easy and affordable for students to get around.
Career Services: WWU's Career Service offers workshops, individual counseling, and job fairs to help students prepare for their professional lives after graduation.
Volunteering Opportunities: There are numerous opportunities to engage with the local community through volunteering, which can include teaching languages, participating in environmental projects, or working with local charities.
Cultural Life: Münster offers a rich cultural scene with theaters, museums, and historical sites, along with cafes, restaurants, and shopping, providing students with a well-rounded living experience.
Career Service Center: WWU's Career Service offers comprehensive support that includes career counseling, CV and cover letter workshops, interview preparation, and job application tips. They help students understand their career options and navigate the job market effectively.
Job Fairs and Networking Events: The university hosts several job fairs and networking events throughout the year, where students can meet potential employers from various industries. These events are key opportunities for networking and learning about job openings and internship opportunities.
Online Job Portal: WWU provides an online job portal where companies post vacancies, including full-time positions, internships, and part-time jobs. This portal is an essential resource for students nearing graduation.
Mandatory Internships: Some of WWU’s programs incorporate internships as a compulsory part of the curriculum, ensuring that students gain practical experience relevant to their field of study.
Internship Placement Services: The Career Service assists students in finding internships by providing access to an extensive database of internship opportunities and by offering personalized advice on selecting suitable positions.
Active Alumni Association: WWU has an active alumni network that plays a crucial role in the career development of students. Alumni often participate in mentoring programs, provide internship and job placements, and help with career guidance through talks and workshops.
Partnerships with Industry: WWU maintains strong connections with companies and organizations across various sectors. These partnerships often lead to research collaborations, internships, and direct recruitment activities.
Research Collaborations: For students interested in academic and research careers, WWU offers numerous opportunities to engage in research projects that can lead to employment opportunities within academia or industry research roles.
Specialized Workshops: The university offers workshops and seminars specifically designed for international students, covering topics such as working in Germany, cultural differences in the workplace, and specific challenges they might face in the German job market.
Language Skills: Proficiency in German is often crucial for the job market, so the university provides German language courses to improve employment prospects.
Skill Enhancement Programs: WWU offers various programs to enhance professional skills, including project management, leadership skills, and digital competencies, which are designed to improve students’ employability.
Ph.D. Career Support: For doctoral students, the university offers specific guidance on career paths both inside and outside academia, including post-doctoral positions, research roles, and other specialized professional opportunities.
1. Eligibility-Based Admissions: In Germany, university admissions are generally based more on eligibility than on selectivity. This means if you meet the academic requirements for a given program, you will likely be admitted. The key criteria include having the appropriate academic qualifications, meeting language proficiency requirements, and passing any necessary entrance examinations.
2. Numerus Clausus (NC) Programs: Some programs at the University of Münster may have a Numerus Clausus (NC), which restricts the number of admissions based on the capacity of the program. The NC is not an acceptance rate per se but a threshold grade from the German Abitur or equivalent qualifications needed to gain admission. If more applicants qualify than there are spots available, the program's required entry grade might be higher.
3. High Demand Programs: Fields such as Medicine, Psychology, and Law might have higher NCs due to a greater number of applications, which might give the appearance of a lower acceptance rate due to limited capacity. However, for most other programs, if you meet the eligibility requirements, you stand a good chance of admission.
4. Master’s and Doctoral Programs: These programs might have more selective admissions processes, depending on the specific requirements of the faculty and the number of available positions, especially for programs that require specific bachelor's degrees or have limited research positions.
The University of Münster does not have a centralized campus; instead, its facilities are integrated into the urban fabric of the city, spread across various locations:
Schloss (Castle) Campus:
The main administrative building, the Schloss, originally a palace built in the 18th century, houses the central university administration.
Surrounding this area are several other university buildings that host faculties such as law, economics, and some humanities departments.
Natural Sciences Campus:
Located in the Coesfelder Kreuz area, this campus includes faculties such as mathematics, chemistry, and physics.
The campus features modern research facilities and laboratories.
Humanities and Social Sciences:
Distributed across several locations in the city center, including the historical “Fürstenberghaus” and various other buildings around the Aasee Lake and Promenade.
This area hosts departments like history, philosophy, social sciences, and theology.
Medicine Campus:
The University Hospital Münster (UKM) is located slightly north of the city center and is associated with the medical faculty. It is one of the largest and most respected medical facilities in Germany.
Technology and Informatics:
The Leonardo Campus in the north of Münster hosts the School of Design and the departments of computer science and engineering.
Libraries: The university boasts several specialized libraries with extensive collections, particularly strong in theology, medicine, law, and history.
Sports Facilities: The university offers a wide range of sports activities facilitated by its sports center, located near the Aasee Lake.
Cafeterias and Dining Halls: Multiple dining options are available across different campuses, offering convenient and affordable meal choices for students and staff.
Transportation: Münster is famously known as the bicycle capital of Germany, offering extensive bike paths throughout the city. Public transport is also efficient, with buses connecting different parts of the city and the university campuses.
Cultural and Social Life: Münster is known for its active cultural scene, featuring numerous museums, theaters, and historic sites. The city hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, enriching the student experience.
Student Life: With a large student population, Münster is tailored to student needs, providing a vibrant nightlife, numerous cafes, bars, and recreational areas.
