Higher education in Hamburg: universities, Bachelor's and Master's programs
- Higher education in Hamburg: universities, Bachelor's and Master's programs
- Features of Higher education in Hamburg
- Main universities in Hamburg
- Overview of Bachelor's programs in Hamburg
- Overview of Master's and Doctoral programs in Hamburg
- Tuition fees for International students in Hamburg
- Scholarships and grants for International students in Hamburg
- Life as an International student in Hamburg
- Work and career opportunities after studying in Hamburg
- Is Hamburg worth choosing for studies?
- Frequently Asked Questions

Master of Arts - Marketing Management
University of Europe for Applied Sciences - GermanyTheir field is complex and dynamic. Marketing, technology, and PR must be linked for a strong brand image. Companies need analysts and strategists in these fields.
At UE, you learn how to communicate and how markets and products are connected.
UE trains students to be marketing…

Bachelor of Arts - Graphic Design
Berlin School of Business and InnovationDegree awarded by University for the Creative Arts (UCA)
This degree aims to develop creative leaders in the commercial field of graphic design.
You'll design UI/UX solutions, websites, and digital publishing using typography and visual corporate identity. This is how…

Bachelor of Arts - Animation
Berlin School of Business and InnovationDegree awarded by University for the Creative Arts (UCA)
The training aims to attract creative potential to animation. Work in an industry-standard studio with state-of-the-art facilities to attain your best potential. An esteemed faculty will help you find your own distinctive…

Bachelor of Arts - Illustration
Berlin School of Business and InnovationDegree awarded by University for the Creative Arts (UCA)
A specific emphasis on narrative and drawing practice, as well as critical analysis, workshops, and group live projects, are all part of our inclusive approach to teaching methods in this course.
You can improve…

Master of Arts - Visual Communication
Berlin School of Business and InnovationDegree awarded by University for the Creative Arts (UCA)
This course explores how to transmit messages and meaning through illustration, motion, and digital. You'll gain new abilities to improve and inform your design language.
During studio-based studies, you'll collaborate…

Master of Business Administration - Shipping and Logistics
University of Europe for Applied Sciences - GermanySea logistics connect a wide range of enterprises and industries.
Businesses need forward-thinking management concepts and experts to implement them to fulfill increased demand and extend supply chain networks.
Hamburg offers forward-thinking MBA classes. The Crossroads of the…

Bachelor of Arts - Design & Management Studies
University of Europe for Applied Sciences - GermanyOrganizations are looking for young people with a growing number of abilities, including creativity and critical thinking. Discover them right here!
The creative industries are undergoing major yet exciting shifts as a result of the rapid emergence of generative AI. Professionals with a…

Bachelor of Arts - Visual Communication
University of Europe for Applied Sciences - GermanyIn a world that is becoming more and more digitalized, media profoundly impacts and changes our reality rather than just reflecting it. Our bachelor's degree in visual communication provides a hands-on education that will prepare you for future design roles.
You can use our state-of-the-art…

Master of Science - International Logistics & Transportation Management
University of Europe for Applied Sciences - GermanyStudents enrolled in the internationally focused Master of Science (MSc) programme in International Logistics and Transportation Management will gain practical experience in logistics and transportation on a global scale, as well as a solid grounding in Total Quality Management, Green Logistics and…

Master of Science - Asset Management
University of Europe for Applied Sciences - GermanyPortfolio Management and Trading, Financial Analysis and Investments, Risk Analysis and Decision-Making, Cryptocurrencies and International Markets and Stock Exchange, Project Management and Advanced Research Methodologies are all part of our application-oriented Master's degree program in Asset Management.…
Higher education in Hamburg: universities, Bachelor's and Master's programs
Hamburg is one of Germany's largest and most dynamic cities, ranking among the country's most important educational and scientific centers. The city offers international students a wide selection of academic programs, high-quality teaching, as well as developed infrastructure and excellent quality of life. Thanks to its international orientation and numerous English-taught programs, Hamburg has become an attractive destination for higher education.
Features of Higher education in Hamburg
Higher education in Hamburg follows the European system comprising three levels: bachelor's, master's, and doctoral studies. Instruction is available in both German and English, particularly at the master's and doctoral levels. Hamburg's universities offer:
- Innovative academic programs with an international focus
- Modern technical equipment and research centers
- Close ties with regional industry and businesses
- Opportunities for academic mobility through Erasmus+ and other programs
Main universities in Hamburg
Hamburg is home to both public and private universities with high academic rankings. Below are four leading universities in the city:
1. Universität Hamburg (University of Hamburg)
The largest public university in the city, founded in 1919. Offers a wide range of programs in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and technical fields. Ranked among the world's top 200 universities by QS.
2. Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH)
A technical university specializing in engineering, computer science, and innovation. Renowned for its interdisciplinary programs and strong research base.
3. Hamburg University of Applied Sciences (HAW Hamburg)
A university of applied sciences with emphasis on practical training. Focuses on fields such as business, engineering, design, and healthcare. Many programs are taught in English.
4. Berlin School of Business and Innovation (BSBI, Hamburg campus)
A private institution with international accreditation. Specializes in business education, marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship. The Hamburg campus offers English-taught bachelor's and master's programs designed for international students.
Overview of Bachelor's programs in Hamburg
Bachelor's programs in Hamburg typically last 6-8 semesters and cover diverse fields. International students can choose from:
- Business administration and international management
- Information technology and engineering
- Media and communications
- Architecture and design
- Biomedicine and natural sciences
Many universities offer English-taught programs. Admission requires a high school diploma, proof of language proficiency (TestDaF, IELTS/TOEFL), and in some cases, participation in preparatory courses (Studienkolleg).
Overview of Master's and Doctoral programs in Hamburg
Master's programs in Hamburg last 2-4 semesters and focus on advanced specialization. Current popular fields include:
- Economics and finance
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Sustainable development and ecology
- International relations
- Architecture and urban planning
Doctoral studies (Promotion) are available either as individual research projects or within research groups. Hamburg universities offer programs in collaboration with leading international institutions.
Tuition fees for International students in Hamburg
At public universities in Germany, including those in Hamburg, there are no tuition fees for most programs. However, students must pay a semester fee of 300-400 euros, which includes a transportation pass, student services, and administrative charges.
Private universities like BSBI set their own fees. For example, bachelor's programs may cost between 6,000 and 12,000 euros per year.
University Type | Tuition Fees (per year) |
---|---|
Public university | 0 € (semester fee only) |
Private university (BSBI etc.) | 6,000 to 12,000 € |
Scholarships and grants for International students in Hamburg
Hamburg offers various forms of financial support for international students:
- DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) - government scholarships for master's and research programs
- Deutschlandstipendium - merit-based scholarships
- University scholarships - for example, Universität Hamburg provides support for students in financial need
- Private foundations - such as Heinrich Böll Stiftung, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung and others
Scholarship amounts range from 300 to 1,000 euros per month, depending on the program and conditions.
Life as an International student in Hamburg
Hamburg is a modern metropolis with developed transportation networks, cultural institutions, and good environmental quality. According to Numbeo.com, living costs are as follows:
- Accommodation (average): 400 to 700 euros per month
- Food and transportation: 250 to 400 euros
- Total monthly expenses: approximately 800-1,100 euros
- Crime Index: ~40.74 (moderately safe level)
The city is considered safe and welcoming to foreigners, especially students.
Work and career opportunities after studying in Hamburg
International students are permitted to work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year. After graduation, it's possible to extend the visa for 18 months to seek employment in one's field.
Hamburg is a major economic hub with active sectors including:
- Logistics and international trade
- Finance and insurance
- Information technology
- Energy and sustainable development
- Creative industries
Many graduates successfully find employment with international companies operating in the region.
Is Hamburg worth choosing for studies?
Studying in Hamburg means:
- High-quality education and academic freedom
- Low or nonexistent tuition fees
- A European degree recognized worldwide
- Wide selection of English-taught programs
- International student community
- Employment prospects in Europe
Thus, Hamburg is an excellent choice for international students seeking quality education in the heart of Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need to know German to study at a Hamburg university?
No, many programs are taught in English, especially at the master's level. However, knowing German will make daily life and integration easier.
2. What documents are required for admission?
High school diploma/university degree, language certificates (IELTS, TestDaF etc.), motivation letter, recommendation letters, CV.
3. Is it difficult to find accommodation in Hamburg?
Yes, demand for student housing is high. It's recommended to apply for dormitories early and consider private rentals.
4. What are the monthly living expenses for a student?
On average 800 to 1,100 euros per month, including accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
5. Can I stay in Germany after graduation?
Yes, graduates can stay in the country for up to 18 months to look for a job and then apply for a work visa.