Top Private Universities In Germany

Introduction

German private universities also have certain advantages as far as studying is concerned, like small class size, individual attention, and emphasis on vocation. For instance, a study was done recently and showed that with the ever-increasing private universities in Germany, the student-faculty ratio is on average 15:1. More students can be reached one-on-one, hence more interaction can occur. Read this blog to learn about the best private universities in Germany, their advantages, why you should study there, and the programs offered.

Top Private Universities in Germany

Today, Germany has a liberalized system of private universities that cater to the needs of the students in line with every institution’s specialty. Some of the top private universities in Germany include:

Munich Business School

• Location: Munich, Germany
• Overview of programs: International focus with popular International Business, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship programs.
  • Popular programs:
    • International Business
    • Innovation and Entrepreneurship
  • Tuition fees: Up to €40,000 per program
  • Admission requirements: Bachelor’s degree, proof of English proficiency, interview

SRH University Heidelberg

• Location: Heidelberg, Germany
• Focus: Interdisciplinary studies and innovative teaching methods
  • Popular programs:
    • International Management
    • Computer Science
  • Tuition fees: Approximately €4,900 per semester
  • Admission requirements: Bachelor’s degree, proof of English proficiency, statement of purpose

Jacobs University Bremen

• Location: Bremen, Germany
• Known for: Diverse international student body and interdisciplinary programs
  • Popular programs:
    • Data Engineering
    • Computer Science
  • Tuition fees: €10,000 – €20,000 per year
  • Admission requirements: Secondary school diploma, proof of English proficiency, interview

EBS University of Business and Law

• Location: Wiesbaden and Oestrich-Winkel, Germany
• Specializes in: Business and law education
  • Popular programs:
    • Management
    • Finance
    • MBA
  • Tuition fees: Up to €40,500 per program
  • Admission requirements: Bachelor’s degree, proof of English proficiency, interview

WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management

• Location: Vallendar and Düsseldorf, Germany
• Renowned for: Management programs and strong industry connections
  • Popular programs:
    • Management
    • Finance
    • MBA
  • Tuition fees: Up to €40,500 per program
  • Admission requirements: Bachelor’s degree, proof of English proficiency, interview

HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management

• Location: Leipzig, Germany
• Offers programs: Focused on management and finance
  • Popular programs:
    • Management
    • Finance
    • MBA
  • Tuition fees: Program-specific
  • Admission requirements: Bachelor’s degree, proof of English proficiency, interview

IU International University of Applied Sciences

• Multiple campuses: Across Germany
• Offers: A wide range of programs with a focus on practical education
  • Popular programs:
    • Business Administration
    • Computer Science
  • Tuition fees: From €7,000 per program
  • Admission requirements: Secondary school diploma, proof of English proficiency, interview

GISMA Business School

• Multiple campuses: Including Berlin, Hanover, and Hamburg
• Known for: Business and management programs
  • Popular programs:
    • International Business Management
    • Data Science
  • Tuition fees: €15,000 – €30,000 per program
  • Admission requirements: Bachelor’s degree, proof of English proficiency, interview

Berlin International University of Applied Sciences

• Location: Berlin, Germany
• Emphasizes: Innovative and practice-oriented education
  • Popular programs:
    • Business Administration
    • Digital Business
  • Tuition fees: €10,000 – €11,000 per year
  • Admission requirements: Secondary school diploma, proof of English proficiency, interview

Steinbeis University

• Location: Berlin, Germany
• Known for: Dual education model combining theoretical and practical knowledge
  • Popular programs:
    • Business Management
    • MBA
  • Tuition fees: Program-specific
  • Admission requirements: Bachelor’s degree, proof of English proficiency, interview

Fresenius University of Applied Sciences

• Multiple campuses: Across Germany
• Focuses on: Practical-oriented education with strong industry connections
  • Popular programs:
    • Media Management
    • Digital Management
  • Tuition fees: €6,000 – €8,000 per semester
  • Admission requirements: Secondary school diploma, proof of English proficiency, interview

Cologne Business School

• Location: Cologne, Germany
• Specializes in: Business and management education
  • Popular programs:
    • Business Psychology
    • Global Finance
  • Tuition fees: Program-specific
  • Admission requirements: Secondary school diploma, proof of English proficiency, interview

New European College

• Location: Munich, Germany
• Offers programs: In business administration and international management
  • Popular programs:
    • International Business Management
    • Marketing Management
  • Tuition fees: Program-specific
  • Admission requirements: Secondary school diploma, proof of English proficiency, interview

FOM University of Applied Sciences for Economics and Management

• Multiple campuses: Across Germany
• Known for: Programs designed for working professionals
  • Popular programs:
    • Business Administration
    • Economics
  • Tuition fees: Program-specific
  • Admission requirements: Secondary school diploma, proof of English proficiency, interview

Macromedia University of Applied Sciences

• Multiple campuses: Including Munich, Berlin, and Cologne
• Focuses on: Media, design, and management programs
  • Popular programs:
    • Media Management
    • Design Thinking
  • Tuition fees: Program-specific
  • Admission requirements: Secondary school diploma, proof of English proficiency, interview

BSP Business School Berlin

• Location: Berlin, Germany
• Offers: A variety of business and psychology programs
  • Popular programs:
    • Business Psychology
    • International Business Management
  • Tuition fees: Program-specific
  • Admission requirements: Secondary school diploma, proof of English proficiency, interview

The Reputation of Private Universities in Germany

The present research focuses on the reputation of private universities in Germany. Germany’s private university systems have developed a solid image both nationally and globally, attracting students from across the globe. These institutions are reputed for providing quality education, industry connections, and better employment rates for their graduates.

Internationally Recognized Institutions

Most of the top private universities in Germany have established themselves as centers of excellence across the globe. For example:

• WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management is among the top business schools in Europe.
• Hertie School is well-known for its programs in public policy and governance.

Many of these universities offer joint-degree programs and foreign exchange programs, enhancing their global accreditation.

Smaller Class Sizes and Personalized Attention

Private universities in Germany offer smaller class sizes and personalized attention. With an average student-professor ratio of 15:1, students receive individual attention from their professors. This intimate learning environment promotes mutual understanding and cooperation.

Strong Industry Connections

Private universities in Germany maintain strong ties with the business world. Advisory boards often include industry practitioners, whose input helps shape curricula to meet market demands. This industry engagement opens up opportunities for internships, project-based learning, and job placements after graduation.

Better Employment Opportunities for Graduates

Graduates from private universities in Germany benefit from the combination of academic credentials, personalized attention, and strong corporate connections. Studies show that private university graduates tend to start with higher salaries and experience faster promotions compared to public university graduates.

List of Best Private Universities by Discipline

Private universities in Germany provide education across various fields. Below is a list of top private universities by discipline:

Business and Management

University	Notable Programs	Strengths
WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management	MBA, Master in Finance, Master in Management	Focus on entrepreneurship, innovation, and international business
Frankfurt School of Finance and Management	Masters in Finance, Business, Management	Strong industry affiliations, practical learning
Munich Business School	Master of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, MBA General Management	Skills-based, internationally oriented
Cologne Business School	MBA in International Business, Digital Business Management	Practical focus, international connections

Engineering and Technology

University	Notable Programs	Strengths
Technische Hochschule (TH Nuremberg, TH Ingolstadt)	Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering	Applied sciences, industry relationships
RWTH Aachen University (Public)	Engineering, Technology	Strong industry connections, remarkable apparatus
Jacobs University Bremen	Computer Science, Robotics, Data Engineering	Reputable for sciences and technologies

Health Sciences

University	Notable Programs	Strengths
Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin	Medicine, Health Sciences, Health Economics	Strong ties to healthcare market
German University of Prevention and Health Management	Sporting and Health Management, Public Health	Focused on health disciplines
MSH Medical School Hamburg	Medicine, Health Science, Health Economics	Close connections to the healthcare sector

Media and Communication

University	Notable Programs	Strengths
HMKW Hochschule für Medien, Kommunikation und Wirtschaft	Media Management, Media Communications, Design	Programs across Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne
Macromedia University of Applied Sciences	Media Design, Digital Business & Marketing	Several educational centers across Germany
Hamburg Media School	Media Management, Film, Digital Media	Located in one of the world’s creative industry centers, Hamburg

Interdisciplinary and Liberal Arts

University	Notable Programs	Strengths
Zeppelin University	Social Sciences, Management, Communication	Interdisciplinary programs
Witten/Herdecke University	Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology	Focus on humanistic and interdisciplinary studies
Bard College Berlin	Humanities, Social Sciences	International program with a liberal arts focus

The Full List of Accredited Private Universities in Germany

Germany has a varied geography of private institutions of higher learning, offering students an alternative to public universities. These private institutions provide a wide range of opportunities across different fields of study.

Comprehensive List of Accredited Private Institutions in Germany

Below is a comprehensive list of accredited private universities in Germany:

Business and Management Schools

• Berlin School of Business and Innovation
• GISMA Business School
• University of Europe for Applied Sciences
• Munich Business School
• WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management
• Hamburg School of Business Administration
• Cologne Business School
• Quadriga University of Applied Sciences Berlin

Universities Specializing in Applied Sciences

• CODE University of Applied Sciences
• Steinbeis-Hochschule Berlin
• IUBH University of Applied Sciences
• University of Applied Sciences Europe
• Macromedia College
• Technical College George Agricola
• University of Applied Sciences FHDW
• European University of Applied Sciences (EU | FH)

Other Specialized Universities

• FOM University of Applied Sciences, Economics and Management
• Hertie School of Governance
• International Psychoanalytic University Berlin
• Touro College Berlin
• German University for Health & Sports
• EBZ Business School
• Brand Academy – College of Design and Communication
• Allensbach University of Konstanz

Health and Medical Schools

• MSH Medical School Hamburg
• MSB Medical School Berlin
• Akkon University of Human Sciences
• University of Health-oriented Sciences Rhein-Neckar

Media, Arts, and Design Universities

• Media Design College
• Merz Academy – College of Design, Art, and Media
• Design Academy Berlin – SRH College of Communication and Design

State-Accredited Private Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule) in Germany

Germany also has state-recognized private universities of applied sciences, known as Fachhochschulen, which offer industry-specific programs. These institutions complement the public university system by focusing on practical, career-oriented education.

Top Private Universities of Applied Sciences in Germany

Some of the top private universities of applied sciences in Germany include:

• IUBH University of Applied Sciences
• FOM College
• Hamburger Fern-Hochschule
• College Fresenius
• German University for Prevention and Health Management
• European Fernhochschule Hamburg
• Wilhelm Buchner University
• Diploma College

Key Programs and Industry Relevance

Private universities of applied sciences in Germany offer job-oriented courses with strong industry partnerships. Popular programs offered include:

• Business Administration
• International Business
• Digital Business and Innovation
• Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil)
• Health Management
• Logistics and Supply Chain Management
• Information Technology and Computer Science
• Media and Communication
• Tourism and Hospitality Management

These programs aim to equip students with practical skills through internships and collaborations with businesses, enhancing their employability in competitive job markets.

Comparison Between Private Universities and Private Universities of Applied Sciences

Here’s a comparison of key aspects between traditional private universities and private universities of applied sciences:

Aspect	Private Universities	Private Universities of Applied Sciences
Focus	Stronger emphasis on theoretical knowledge and research	Greater focus on practical, industry-oriented education
Programs	Offer a wider range of traditional academic programs	Specialize in vocational, career-focused programs
Facilities	Extensive research facilities and resources	Modern, industry-standard facilities for hands-on learning
Admission	Generally more competitive admission process	Slightly less competitive admission requirements
Tuition Fees	Typically higher tuition fees	May have slightly lower tuition fees
Employability	Strong reputation and alumni networks enhance employability	Practical, industry-relevant education boosts job prospects

Admission Requirements for Private Universities in Germany

Admission Criteria

Private universities are less selective compared to public ones due to the absence of the “numerus clausus” principle. The typical admission requirements include:

• Secondary school diploma or equivalent
• Proof of language proficiency (German or English)
• Application form and supporting documents
• Entrance exams or interviews (in some cases)
• Application fee

Tuition Fees at Private Universities in Germany

Cost of Tuition Fees

The tuition fees in private universities in Germany can range from €10,000 to €40,000 per year, depending on the program and university. These costs are relatively higher compared to public universities, which often provide education at a token or highly subsidized fee.

Many private universities also offer more scholarship or financial assistance opportunities for international students.

Comparison of Tuition Fees

University	Undergraduate Tuition (per year)	Postgraduate Tuition (per year)
WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management	€24,900 – €39,900	€24,900 – €39,900
Frankfurt School of Finance and Management	Up to €39,000	Up to €39,000
Munich Business School	€24,900 – €39,900	€24,900 – €39,900
Hertie School	€18,250 – €36,500	€18,250 – €36,500
GISMA Business School	€15,000 – €30,000	€15,000 – €30,000
Bard College Berlin	€23,820 – €33,420	€23,820 – €33,420

The average annual tuition fee at private universities in Germany is about €20,000.

Additional Costs

In addition to tuition fees, students may also need to pay the following:

• Application Fee: €50 to €150
• Enrollment Fee: €200 to €500
• Semester Contribution: €200 to €400 per semester

Benefits of Studying at Private Universities in Germany

Advantages of Private Universities

• Specialized and practical-oriented education
• Small class sizes and personalized attention
• Strong industry connections
• International outlook
• Modern facilities and resources

Public vs. Private Universities

Aspect	Public Universities	Private Universities
Tuition Fees	Lower or no tuition fees	Higher tuition fees
Class Sizes	Larger class sizes, less personalized	Smaller class sizes, more personalized attention
Admission Process	More competitive	Less selective
Research Facilities	Extensive research resources	Less research-focused
Scholarships	Limited scholarships for international students	More scholarships and financial aid are available
Program Offerings	Extensive and diverse	Specialized, industry-focused programs
Career Support	Limited industry connections	Strong industry connections and career support

Specialized Programs at Private Universities

Popular Fields of Study

• Business and Management: Universities such as Munich Business School, GISMA Business School, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management provide top-quality courses in finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, digital business, etc.
• Engineering and Technology: Institutions like Constructor University (formerly Jacobs University Bremen) and CODE University of Applied Sciences are renowned for engineering and computer science programs.
• Health Sciences: Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin offers top-tier medical education.
• Arts and Design: Merz Academy in Stuttgart and Macromedia University of Applied Sciences specialize in design and media.

Scholarships & Student Finances

Types of Scholarships

• Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded for academic, athletic, or artistic achievements.
• Need-Based Scholarships: Offered to students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Specialized Scholarships: Available for specific fields of study or programs.
• International Scholarships: Targeted at international students to cover tuition fees and living expenses.

Application Process for Scholarships

• Submit an application form
• Provide supporting documents (academic transcripts, recommendation letters, etc.)
• Meet submission deadlines
• Attend interviews (in some cases)

Examples of Scholarships

Scholarship	Description
Bard College Berlin Scholarship	For academically excellent and financially needy students
GISMA Business School Scholarship	Targets business-related course students
Hertie School Scholarship	For students focused on policy and governance
Munich Business School Scholarship	Awarded to exceptional students with financial need
Frankfurt School of Finance and Management Scholarship	For academically excellent students facing financial difficulties

Campus Life and Student Support Services

Infrastructure and Services

Private universities in Germany invest in modern infrastructure, including:

• Modern lecture theatres and classrooms
• Well-equipped laboratories and technology facilities

Student Support Services

• Orientation programs
• Language courses
• Housing assistance
• Career counseling and job placement services

Student Life and Extracurricular Activities

Private universities offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including:

• Sports, arts, and community volunteerism
• Cultural exchange programs
• Innovation centers for student business proposals

Benefits of Small Class Sizes

With an average student-to-faculty ratio of around 15:1, students can expect:

• Engaging in discussions and active participation
• Individualized feedback from professors
• Research and independent study opportunities

Practical-Oriented Education and Industry Connections

Private universities in Germany emphasize practical education through:

• Collaborations with industries
• Guest lectures and workshops by experts
• Employer visits and job fairs

Diverse Student Community and Cultural Exchange

Private universities in Germany foster a multicultural environment, providing opportunities for:

• Cultural exchange with peers from various backgrounds
• Language learning and exchange programs

Conclusion 

In this article, we have seen the Top Private Universities In Germany, Germany currently appears to have a good number of private universities for business, engineering, health science, and arts students. Each of these institutions has its special niche; hence, one can detect that after striking the balance of all the factors there is a college or university that will fit you like a glove and will enable you to achieve all the academic and career aspirations.