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Ruhr-Universität Bochum


About Ruhr-Universität Bochum

Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB) was the first new public university to be founded in Germany after World War II in 1962. Today, RUB is one of Europe´s most thriving universities with a lively campus attracting more than 43,000 students from all over the world. More than 5,500 students and nearly 600 PhD students graduate each year.

A wide range of disciplines is offered by RUB as well as an excellent research infrastructure. 20 Faculties and 35 fields of study provide a great number of research and training options. The cross-faculty RUB Research School is the central campus hub for doctoral researchers. The RUB Research School offers an advanced qualification beyond borders, supports a seamless transition into the job market and advises everyone starting or planing a doctorate at RUB. Early career researchers are at the center of attention being the most important resource for future innovation and outstanding research.

Ruhr-Universität Bochum is internationally known for its research strengths in solvation science (Cluster of Excellence) and cyber security (Cluster of Excellenz) as well as for research focuses in religious studies, materials research, neuroscience, plasma research, protein research, and subsurface modeling and engineering. RUB researchers procure a significant amount of third party funding each year and thus contribute to the university´s budget.

The university´s primary location is in the city of Bochum, in Germany´s Ruhr Valley region, with an overseas presence in New York, Moscow, and Rio de Janeiro. Researchers of all career stages meeting on campus make the university a stimulating place and shape RUB as an open minded attractive place for science and study.

UA-Ruhr: The giant in the region

The UA-Ruhr is a consortium of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum, TU Dortmund University and the University of Duisburg-Essen, the three academic powerhouses in Germany´s thriving Ruhr Valley region. Each of our institutions has a strong tradition of breaking down walls between disciplines. We believe in collaboration on all levels of scholarship and research, which is one of the reasons we came together to form this unique university alliance. We leverage our strengths in science and engineering, social sciences, and the humanities, and create unique opportunities for international academic cooperation.

Why Ruhr-Universität Bochum

Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB) is famous for several key reasons, which have contributed to its strong reputation in both academic and research circles:

  1. Interdisciplinary Excellence: RUB is known for its commitment to interdisciplinary research. The university emphasizes the integration of different academic fields, which has led to breakthroughs in areas like materials science, nanotechnology, cognitive science, and environmental studies. Its research centers and clusters encourage collaboration across departments, helping to address complex global issues.

  2. Research Strengths: The university is highly regarded for its research in a wide range of disciplines:

    • Engineering and Technology: RUB is a leading institution in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science, particularly with its focus on innovation and technological development.
    • Natural Sciences: The university excels in physics, chemistry, and mathematics, with its research in nanotechnology and material sciences being internationally recognized.
    • Humanities and Social Sciences: RUB also stands out for its contributions to philosophy, sociology, and psychology, with particular emphasis on cognitive science and the intersection of technology and society.

  3. Collaborations with Industry: RUB has strong partnerships with local, national, and international industries, particularly in engineering and natural sciences. The university’s ties with the Ruhr Area, a key industrial region in Germany, foster practical applications of research and provide students with opportunities to work on industry-related projects.

  4. Strong Research Institutes: RUB is home to several prominent research institutions, including:

    • The Bochum Research School for graduate-level students.
    • The Research Department for Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroengineering, which focus on brain research and artificial intelligence.
    • The Energy Research Centre, which is key to RUB’s work in sustainable energy solutions.

  5. Global Recognition: RUB is consistently ranked among Germany’s top universities, particularly for its contributions to engineering, natural sciences, and social sciences. The university also attracts students and researchers from around the world, providing an international environment and opportunities for global collaboration.

  6. Focus on Innovation and Technology Transfer: RUB places significant importance on the application of research in real-world contexts. It has a strong track record in technology transfer, helping to move academic discoveries into practical innovations and products, particularly in the fields of engineering, environmental sciences, and healthcare.

  7. International Programs: RUB offers various international degree programs, attracting students from across the globe. The university has a reputation for excellence in master’s programs in engineering, management, and data science, often taught in English.

  8. Cultural and Campus Life: Beyond academics, RUB is known for its vibrant student life and cultural activities, with many international student organizations, events, and initiatives, making it a dynamic and engaging place to study.

These factors contribute to RUB's reputation as a top research university, particularly in technical and interdisciplinary fields, and its ability to combine academic rigor with practical, real-world application.

For Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB), the language requirements vary depending on the program of study, particularly whether it is offered in German or English.

For German-Taught Programs:

  • Language Proficiency: You will typically need to demonstrate proficiency in the German language, as most bachelor's and some master's programs are taught in German.
    • TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache): A common requirement with a minimum score of 4 in all sections (reading, listening, writing, and speaking).
    • DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang): Another accepted test with a required minimum score.
    • Goethe-Zertifikat: Some programs might accept the Goethe Institute's C1 certificate.

For English-Taught Programs:

  • Language Proficiency: For master's programs and some bachelor's programs offered in English, you will need to show proficiency in the English language.
    • TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (internet-based).
    • IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5 overall.
    • Cambridge English: A minimum C1 level (Advanced).
    • Other equivalent English proficiency tests are also accepted (e.g., Pearson PTE Academic, or the Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English).

Other Important Points:

  • Some programs might accept native speakers or applicants who have completed previous degrees in English or German as meeting the language proficiency requirements.
  • It's always a good idea to check the specific language requirements for the program you are applying for, as they can vary from one course to another.

Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB) is a major research university located in Bochum, Germany, known for its interdisciplinary and strong focus on research in science, engineering, social sciences, and humanities. Here are some of the university's course specialties:

  1. Engineering and Technology
    RUB has a strong reputation in engineering, especially in fields such as:

    • Mechanical Engineering
    • Electrical Engineering
    • Computer Science and Information Systems
    • Chemical Engineering
    • Civil Engineering

  2. Natural Sciences
    The university is renowned for its research and courses in:

    • Physics, especially in fields like nanotechnology and material science.
    • Chemistry, with a focus on materials chemistry, environmental chemistry, and biochemistry.
    • Mathematics, with applications in data science, algorithms, and computational mathematics.

  3. Humanities and Social Sciences
    RUB offers interdisciplinary programs that blend humanities and social sciences with a focus on modern research and policy development. These programs include:

    • Philosophy (with strengths in political and practical philosophy)
    • Sociology and Social Sciences
    • Psychology (focusing on cognitive and developmental psychology)
    • Linguistics

  4. Law and Economics
    RUB has specialized programs in:

    • Law, with a strong focus on European and international law.
    • Economics, with research strengths in international economics, econometrics, and sustainable development.

  5. Life Sciences and Medicine
    RUB offers programs that bridge the gap between life sciences, biotechnology, and healthcare, including:

    • Biotechnology and Bioengineering
    • Molecular and Cellular Biology
    • Medical Informatics

  6. Interdisciplinary Research
    RUB emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in education and research, with programs that combine different scientific and engineering disciplines, such as:

    • Cognitive Science (integrating psychology, neuroscience, and computer science)
    • Environmental Science (focusing on sustainable development and climate change)

  7. International Programs
    The university offers several international programs in English, particularly at the master's level, including:

    • Master in International Management
    • Master in Environmental Engineering
    • Master in Data Science

RUB is known for its interdisciplinary research, and many of its specialized courses reflect this approach, bringing together various fields to address contemporary global challenges like climate change, technological innovation, and global health.

The university also places a high emphasis on practical, industry-related experience, and collaboration with companies, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the job market.

Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB) has several top professors who are recognized for their significant contributions to various fields of study. Here are a few notable faculty members:

1. Prof. Dr. Theodor W. Hänsch

  • Field: Physics
  • Specialization: Theodor W. Hänsch is a world-renowned physicist known for his pioneering work in optical frequency combs and precision spectroscopy. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2005 for his work on the development of methods to measure the frequency of light with extreme precision.
  • Affiliation: Although Hänsch is now primarily affiliated with the Max Planck Institute in Garching, he has been associated with RUB and has contributed greatly to the university's reputation in physics.

2. Prof. Dr. Michael R. Cates

  • Field: Chemistry / Physics (Soft Matter Physics)
  • Specialization: Prof. Cates is a leading figure in the study of soft matter and complex systems. He is involved in understanding the behavior of systems like colloids, polymers, and other complex fluids.
  • Achievements: His work on non-equilibrium statistical mechanics and soft condensed matter physics has earned him international recognition.

3. Prof. Dr. Albrecht Fuchs

  • Field: Engineering / Materials Science
  • Specialization: Prof. Fuchs focuses on nanotechnology, particularly in the development of new materials and their applications. He works on nanostructured materials, with an emphasis on materials for electronics and energy applications.

4. Prof. Dr. Christiane Nüsslein-Volhard

  • Field: Biology / Genetics
  • Specialization: Christiane Nüsslein-Volhard is one of the Nobel Prize-winning biologists (Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1995) who conducted groundbreaking research on the genetic control of embryonic development. Though currently a professor emeritus, her contributions to the field of developmental biology have been instrumental.
  • Affiliation: Nüsslein-Volhard is now primarily at the Max Planck Institute in Tubingen but has had an influential career at RUB and its partner institutes.

These professors represent just a small selection of the leading experts at Ruhr-Universität Bochum. The university is home to many professors making significant strides in disciplines like engineering, physics, biology, social sciences, and medicine, contributing both nationally and internationally to academia and industry.

Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB) has been associated with Nobel Prize winners, although it may not have as many laureates as some of the more internationally renowned institutions. However, there have been notable researchers and professors affiliated with the university who have contributed significantly to fields that have led to Nobel Prizes.

Nobel Prize Laureates Associated with RUB:

  1. Theodor W. Hänsch:
    • Nobel Prize in Physics (2005): The Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to Theodor W. Hänsch, who was a professor at RUB. Hänsch shared the award with John L. Hall and Roy J. Glauber for their work in the field of optical frequency combs, which revolutionized precise measurement techniques.

While RUB itself has not produced a large number of Nobel laureates, its faculty and researchers have made significant contributions to science, particularly in fields like physics, chemistry, and medicine.