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Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg


About Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg

Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg
A Resource University - Regionally based and internationally networked

The TU Bergakademie Freiberg is the national resource university and at the same time the oldest university of mining sciences in the world. Since its foundation in 1765, teaching and research have been oriented along the entire raw materials value chain. Today, this includes the handling of natural raw materials from exploration, extraction, preparation and processing to recycling. The scientific fields represented at the university, which are reflected in the core fields of geo, materials, energy, environment and economics, are interlinked along the entire raw material value chain. The idea of sustainability, which was coined more than 300 years ago by Freiberg's chief miner Hans Carl von Carlowitz, was then as now the guiding principle in education and research.

Research for sustainable resource use

Resources form the basis for the economy, prosperity, security and innovation. This makes it all the more important to use them responsibly and sustainably. At TU Bergakademie Freiberg, technologies and solution approaches are developed to meet central societal challenges with regard to sustainable resource use. Its profile links the interrelated profile fields of GEO, MATERIAL, ENERGY and ENVIRONMENT in research and teaching and is consistently oriented towards the requirements of the future.

Humanitarian responsibility, environmental and climate protection, efficient use of scarce raw materials and sustainable provision of energy form key motivators of our research. Many of the innovations resulting from our research contribute worldwide to moving closer to the goal of closing the energy and material cycles.

Research centered study

Resource University is a very special place to study: The excellent supervision ratio is reflected in close ties between teachers and students. Students are involved in research at an early stage and benefit from the practice-oriented teaching in their later professional lives. In courses of study that are unique in Germany, knowledge is imparted in order to find creative solutions to currently pressing questions of raw materials and energy supply.

Innovation through networking with large-scale research and industry

Researchers at TU Bergakademie Freiberg are involved in developing solutions for sustainable value creation so that raw materials and ecological resources can be used as efficiently as possible. In its function as a scientific center, the resource university is networked nationally and internationally with institutions of large-scale research and industry, creating ideal conditions for finding innovative solutions for the sustainable development of the energy and raw materials industry.

Regional anchoring

The TU Bergakademie Freiberg is the largest employer in the region. With its specific teaching and research profile and its networking in science and industry, it offers its graduates the best conditions for starting a job regionally, nationally or abroad. Great importance is attached to the preservation of traditions and historical heritage. The university provides support so that the UNESCO World Heritage region "Erzgebirge/Krušnohoří" with its mining, metallurgical and industrial culture can develop an even greater appeal in the future.

International and cosmopolitan

The working and study atmosphere at TU Bergakademie Freiberg is characterized by openness to the world and respectful interaction with one another. The university has a great international appeal, especially in the raw materials sector. The proportion of international students is about 40 percent. Students benefit from the global networking of our scientists, who can gain experience abroad as part of exchange programs, internships or international study programs.

Resource University for over 250 years

The Mining Academy, established in 1765, is considered the oldest university of mining sciences in the world. Following its example, numerous other mining academies were founded, e.g. in St. Petersburg, Russia (1773), Almadén, Spain (1777) or Mexico (1792). It was and is the home of scientists who have influenced the development of mining science and technology worldwide. The two elements germanium and indium were discovered here. Since its foundation, the TU Bergakademie Freiberg has attracted students from all over the world, including Alexander von Humboldt as well as the discoverers of other chemical elements, such as Fausto and Juan José d'Elhuyar (tungsten) and Manuel Andrés del Río (vanadium).

Why Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg

Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg (TUBAF) is famous for several reasons:

  1. World’s Oldest Mining and Resource University

    • Founded in 1765, TUBAF is the oldest mining-focused university globally and has a deep historical legacy in the fields of mining, metallurgy, and geosciences.

  2. Pioneering Role in Sustainable Resource Management

    • TUBAF is recognized as a leader in sustainable resource management and environmental protection. The university focuses on the entire life cycle of resources—from extraction to recycling—and emphasizes the responsible and sustainable use of natural resources, a priority for industries worldwide.

  3. Innovations in Energy Technology

    • The university’s strong emphasis on energy technology has led it to become a significant contributor to advancements in renewable energy, energy storage, and clean energy systems. Research at TUBAF contributes to Germany's efforts in energy transition (Energiewende), which aims to shift the country toward renewable energy sources.

  4. Specialization in Earth and Environmental Sciences

    • TUBAF is globally respected in earth sciences, environmental engineering, and materials science. Its unique course offerings and research focus in these areas attract students and researchers interested in mineral resource management, sustainable engineering, and environmental protection.

  5. Industry Partnerships and Hands-On Learning

    • The university maintains strong collaborations with leading industries in mining, engineering, and energy sectors, giving students ample opportunities for applied research, internships, and hands-on learning. This practical focus is highly valued by both students and employers.

  6. Advanced Research Centers and Facilities

    • TUBAF hosts advanced research centers, including institutes for Mineral and Waste Processing, Materials Engineering, and Environmental Technology, that contribute significantly to innovation in resource extraction, recycling, and material sciences.

TUBAF’s long history, research innovations, and unique specialization in resource sciences and engineering continue to make it a prestigious and highly regarded institution in Germany and beyond.

Language Requirements for Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg (TUBAF):

  1. Bachelor’s Programs

    • Most bachelor’s programs at TUBAF are taught in German. Applicants must provide proof of German language proficiency at a B2 or C1 level, typically through exams like TestDaF (at least level 4 in all sections), DSH-2, Goethe-Zertifikat C1, or telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule.

  2. Master’s Programs

    • TUBAF offers master’s programs in both German and English, with language requirements varying based on the language of instruction:
      • For German-taught programs: Applicants need a C1 level in German, similar to the bachelor’s requirements.
      • For English-taught programs: International students must demonstrate English proficiency through exams like IELTS (minimum score of 6.5), TOEFL iBT (minimum score of 90), or equivalent tests. Some programs may have slightly different score requirements, so it's advised to check specific program details.

  3. Preparatory Language Courses

    • TUBAF offers German language courses for international students who need additional preparation. These courses help students reach the required language level before starting their main academic program.

  4. PhD Programs

    • For PhD studies, the language requirement depends on the supervisor and the research project. Many PhD programs can be completed in English if agreed upon with the academic supervisor, and candidates would typically need to demonstrate proficiency in English (TOEFL or IELTS scores) or German based on the program’s requirements.

Language proficiency requirements may vary slightly depending on the specific course or faculty, so it is always best for applicants to consult TUBAF’s official admissions page for up-to-date details.

Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg (TUBAF) is renowned for its specialization in areas related to mining, geosciences, materials science, energy, and environmental engineering. Here are some of the university's key areas of course specialties:

  1. Mining and Geosciences

    • TUBAF has deep historical roots in mining engineering, geology, and earth sciences, making it one of the most prestigious institutions in these fields.
    • Programs include Geosciences, Mining Engineering, Mineral Resources, and Geotechnics.

  2. Materials Science and Materials Engineering

    • This field focuses on developing and testing materials used in various industrial applications, with a focus on metallurgy and materials innovation.
    • Courses include Metallurgy, Ceramics, and Materials Processing.

  3. Energy Technology and Environmental Engineering

    • TUBAF emphasizes renewable energy and sustainable engineering, offering courses in Energy Process Engineering, Environmental Technology, and Sustainable Resource Management.
    • This specialization supports the energy transition and environmental protection initiatives.

  4. Process Engineering and Chemical Engineering

    • Programs in chemical and process engineering focus on the design, optimization, and sustainability of production processes for chemicals and materials.
    • Relevant programs include Process Engineering and Environmental Process Engineering.

  5. Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Engineering

    • TUBAF offers a strong curriculum in mechanical engineering with an emphasis on applications in mining and energy sectors.
    • Industrial Engineering courses focus on operational management, logistics, and production.

  6. Business Administration and Engineering

    • This interdisciplinary program combines business administration with engineering principles, preparing students for management roles in technical fields.

  7. Applied Computer Science and Mathematics

    • TUBAF provides courses in computer science and mathematics with applications in engineering and natural sciences.

TUBAF’s programs are well-aligned with Germany’s industrial needs, especially in resource management, environmental sustainability, and technology, making it a leading institution for engineering and applied sciences.

Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg (TUBAF) has a strong academic community with many notable professors, especially in the fields of mining, metallurgy, materials science, and environmental engineering. However, specific "top professors" are often not widely publicized like in some other institutions, as TUBAF focuses more on collaborative research and applied sciences.

Here are a few notable faculty members:

  1. Prof. Dr. Michael Riebeling – Professor of Process Engineering and Environmental Technology. His work focuses on environmental protection and sustainable use of natural resources, which are central to the university's mission.

  2. Prof. Dr. Christian Rummel – A professor in the field of Geosciences, specifically in the area of mineralogy, geology, and environmental geology. His research contributes to sustainable resource management and mining processes.

  3. Prof. Dr. Horst Geckler – A professor in the field of Materials Science, with significant contributions to the development of new materials and their applications in various industrial sectors.

Many professors at TUBAF are also involved in highly regarded research projects and initiatives that contribute to the university's reputation in the sciences and engineering. Since the university places a heavy emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, many of its professors are recognized for their work within specific industries and professional communities. For more detailed information on individual faculty members and their specific achievements, it is best to check TUBAF’s official website or research publications.

Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg (TUBAF) has not had any Nobel laureates directly associated with its faculty or alumni. However, the university’s strong historical contributions to mining, metallurgy, geosciences, and environmental sciences have made significant impacts in their respective fields, contributing to advancements that align closely with the themes of scientific research often recognized by Nobel Prizes.

TUBAF remains influential in resource sustainability, energy technology, and environmental protection, and its research has inspired and supported innovations in these fields globally. Its focus areas are essential to addressing challenges in sustainable development and energy transition, positioning TUBAF as a key player in areas that continue to shape modern scientific and environmental research.