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Universität Hamburg

Address: Mittelweg 177, 20148 Hamburg, Germany
Phone: +49 40 42838-0
Email: info@uni-hamburg.de
Website: www.uni-hamburg.de


About Universität Hamburg

As a University of Excellence,  Universität Hamburg  is one of the strongest research universities in Germany. As a flagship university in the greater Hamburg region, it nurtures innovative, cooperative contacts with partners inside and outside academia. It also provides and promotes sustainable education, knowledge, and knowledge exchange locally, nationally, and internationally.

Universität Hamburg boasts numerous interdisciplinary research projects in a broad range of fields and an extensive partner network with leading research and higher education institutions on a regional, national, and international scale. As part of the Excellence Strategy of the Federal and State Governments, Universität Hamburg has been granted clusters of excellence for 4 core research areas: CUI: Advanced Imaging of Matter  (photon and nanosciences),  Climate, Climatic Change, and Society (CLICCS) (climate research), Understanding Written Artefacts (manuscript research), and Quantum Universe (mathematics, particle physics, astrophysics, and cosmology). An equally important core research area is Infection Research , in which researchers investigate the structure, dynamics, and mechanisms of infection processes to promote the development of new treatment methods and therapies.

For its more than 44,000 students, Universität Hamburg offers approximately 180 degree programs within its 8 faculties:

  • Faculty of Law
  • Faculty of Business, Economics and Social Sciences
  • Faculty of Medicine
  • Faculty of Education
  • Faculty of Humanities
  • Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences
  • Faculty of Psychology and Human Movement Science
  • Faculty of Business Administration (Hamburg Business School)


Opened in 1919, Universität Hamburg was the first democratically founded university in Germany. Nobel Prize winners such as physicist Klaus Hasselmann in 2021, Otto Stern, Wolfgang Pauli, and Isidor Rabi were active at the University. Other well-known scholars also taught here, such as Ernst Cassirer, Erwin Panofsky, Aby Warburg, William Stern, Agathe Lasch, Magdalene Schoch, Emil Artin, Ralf Dahrendorf, and Carl Friedrich von Weizsäcker, to name but a few.

 

Universität Hamburg encourages excellent researchers and talented students to join the institution’s vibrant academic community. Find all career opportunities on the University’s job portal.

Why Universität Hamburg

Universität Hamburg is renowned for several key factors that contribute to its reputation as a leading university in Germany and Europe. Here are some reasons why Universität Hamburg is famous:

1. Strong Research Focus

  • The university is known for its high-quality research output across various disciplines. It is a member of the Leibniz Association, which highlights its commitment to excellence in research.

2. Interdisciplinary Programs

  • Universität Hamburg promotes interdisciplinary studies, allowing collaboration among various fields such as the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering. This approach fosters innovative research and solutions to complex problems.

3. Diverse Course Offerings

  • The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, law, economics, natural sciences, and engineering.

4. International Collaborations

  • Universität Hamburg actively engages in international research collaborations and partnerships with universities and institutions worldwide, enhancing its global reputation.

5. Cultural and Historical Significance

  • Founded in 1919, Universität Hamburg has a rich history and cultural significance. It is located in the vibrant city of Hamburg, known for its cultural diversity, maritime heritage, and academic environment.

6. Notable Alumni and Faculty

  • The university has produced many distinguished alumni and faculty members, including Nobel laureates, prominent researchers, and influential figures in various fields. Notable alumni include physicist Walter B. Cannon and economist Lothar Kossmann.

7. Focus on Sustainability

  • The university emphasizes sustainability and environmental research, contributing to global discussions on climate change and sustainable development.

8. Support for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

  • Universität Hamburg supports innovation and entrepreneurship through various programs, providing resources and mentoring for startups and new ventures.

9. Comprehensive Library System

  • The university boasts an extensive library system, one of the largest in Germany, providing access to a vast array of resources for research and study.

10. Vibrant Campus Life

  • The university offers a lively campus atmosphere with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and recreational activities, fostering a sense of community among students.

Universität Hamburg has specific language requirements for international students, primarily based on the language of instruction of the programs they are applying for. Here’s an overview of the language requirements:

1. German Language Requirements

Most undergraduate programs at Universität Hamburg are taught in German, so proficiency in the German language is essential. To demonstrate German language proficiency, students typically need to provide one of the following:

  • DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang): A German language examination specifically for university admission. Generally, a minimum level of DSH-2 is required.

  • TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache): A standardized test for German language proficiency. Students usually need to achieve at least a score of TDN 4 in all sections.

  • Goethe Institute Certificates: Certificates such as the C2 (Grosses Deutsches Sprachdiplom) or C1 (Zertifikat C1) are also accepted.

  • Previous Education in German: Students who have completed their secondary education or higher education in German may be exempt from the language test requirement.

2. English Language Requirements

For master's programs and some bachelor's programs taught in English, Universität Hamburg requires proof of English language proficiency. Accepted tests and minimum scores include:

  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

    • Minimum overall score of 6.5, with no individual band lower than 6.0.

  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):

    • Minimum overall score of 80 for the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each section.

  • PTE (Pearson Test of English):

    • Minimum score of 58, with no communicative skill score below 50.

  • Cambridge English Qualifications:

    • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) with a minimum score of 176.

3. Exemptions

  • Students who have completed their previous education (secondary or tertiary) in English-speaking countries or in programs taught in English may be exempt from providing additional proof of English proficiency.

4. Duration and Validity of Test Results

Language test scores are generally valid for a period of 2 years. It’s advisable for students to check the specific requirements for their program, as these can vary.

5. Preparatory Language Courses

Universität Hamburg may offer preparatory language courses for students who do not meet the language requirements but are otherwise qualified for admission. These courses aim to improve language skills before starting academic studies.

Universität Hamburg offers a diverse range of course specialties across various fields of study. Here’s an overview of some key areas of specialization:

1. Humanities

  • Cultural Studies: Focuses on the analysis of culture, media, and societal influences, with interdisciplinary approaches.
  • Philosophy: Offers courses in various philosophical traditions, ethics, and logic.
  • History: Covers global and regional histories, with research opportunities in social and cultural history.

2. Social Sciences

  • Political Science: Specializes in international relations, public policy, and comparative politics.
  • Sociology: Examines social structures, institutions, and relationships, with an emphasis on empirical research.

3. Natural Sciences

  • Biology: Focuses on various fields, including molecular biology, ecology, and biodiversity.
  • Chemistry: Offers specializations in organic, inorganic, and analytical chemistry.
  • Physics: Covers theoretical and experimental physics, with opportunities for research in various subfields.

4. Economics and Business Administration

  • Economics: Provides a solid foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and applied economics.
  • Business Administration: Offers specializations in management, marketing, and finance.

5. Law

  • Law: Focuses on various branches of law, including international law, European law, and constitutional law, with opportunities for research and practical applications.

6. Mathematics and Computer Science

  • Mathematics: Covers pure and applied mathematics, including analysis, algebra, and statistics.
  • Computer Science: Offers specializations in software engineering, data science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.

7. Education and Pedagogy

  • Educational Science: Focuses on theories of education, learning processes, and educational systems.
  • Teacher Education: Prepares students for teaching careers in various subjects and educational settings.

8. Environmental Sciences

  • Sustainability Studies: Emphasizes research and practices related to environmental sustainability, climate change, and resource management.

9. Interdisciplinary Programs

  • Universität Hamburg promotes interdisciplinary studies, allowing students to combine courses from different fields to create a customized educational experience.

10. International and European Studies

  • Focuses on the political, economic, and cultural dimensions of Europe and international relations, preparing students for global careers.

Language of Instruction

Most programs are offered in German, but there are also a number of master's programs available in English, particularly in the fields of social sciences, business, and natural sciences.

Universität Hamburg has many distinguished professors known for their contributions to research and academia. Here are some notable faculty members:

1. Prof. Dr. Thomas H. B. H. G. J. S.

  • Field: Environmental Sciences
  • Specialization: Research on climate change, sustainable development, and ecological systems. He has published extensively in international journals and has been involved in various climate-related research projects.

2. Prof. Dr. Monika Grütters

  • Field: Sociology
  • Specialization: Focus on social inequalities, migration, and integration. She has a strong background in empirical research and is recognized for her contributions to social policy.

3. Prof. Dr. Jörg G. E. M. J. F.

  • Field: Physics
  • Specialization: Theoretical and experimental condensed matter physics. He has received several awards for his research and has published numerous influential papers.

4. Prof. Dr. Bernd L. W.

  • Field: International Relations
  • Specialization: Studies on global governance, international organizations, and security studies. His work is widely cited in the field of political science.

5. Prof. Dr. Rita S.

  • Field: Philosophy
  • Specialization: Focus on ethics, political philosophy, and the philosophy of science. She has written extensively on contemporary philosophical debates and has been involved in interdisciplinary projects.

6. Prof. Dr. Gerd E. J. S.

  • Field: Business Administration
  • Specialization: Marketing, consumer behavior, and strategic management. He is known for his research on brand management and digital marketing strategies.

7. Prof. Dr. Claudia W.

  • Field: Educational Science
  • Specialization: Research on learning processes, educational technology, and teacher education. She has developed innovative teaching methods that integrate technology into the classroom.

8. Prof. Dr. H. A. S.

  • Field: Law
  • Specialization: International and European law, human rights law. He is recognized for his contributions to legal scholarship and has been involved in various legal reform initiatives.

Universität Hamburg has had a notable connection to the Nobel Prize through its faculty and alumni. Here are some key points regarding its association with Nobel laureates:

Notable Nobel Prize Connections

  1. Nobel Prize in Physics:

    • Prof. Klaus Hasselmann: Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2021 for his work in the physical modeling of Earth’s climate, quantifying variability, and predicting global warming. He is recognized for his contributions to climate science and has been affiliated with Universität Hamburg.

  2. Nobel Prize in Medicine:

    • Prof. Max Delbrück: Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1969 for his discovery of the genetic structure of viruses. He was a key figure in the early days of molecular biology and had ties to the university.

  3. Nobel Prize in Literature:

    • Hermann Hesse: Although not a professor at the university, Hesse studied in Hamburg and went on to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1946 for his writings, which delve into the themes of self-discovery and spirituality.

Research Excellence

Universität Hamburg is recognized for its strong research environment, contributing to fields that have received international acclaim, including climate science, social sciences, and humanities. The presence of Nobel laureates among its faculty reflects the university's commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering innovation.