English 
Deutsch 
Kiel has around 247,000 residents and is the capital of Schleswig-Holstein, located directly on the Kiel Fjord. Over 34,000 students shape the cityscape – primarily through the large Christian-Albrechts-Universität (CAU). The private university offering is limited: Dual University of Schleswig-Holstein (DHSH) offers around 3 dual study programmes. Kiel is first and foremost a public university city – those wanting to study privately have a limited selection.
Which private universities are in Kiel?
Dual University of Schleswig-Holstein
DHSH offers around 4 dual study programmes in business and administration. The dual model combines theory phases at the university with practice phases at partner companies. Admission is NC-free – a practice partner is required.
FHM
The University of Applied Sciences for Business runs a small study centre in Kiel with a limited number of degree programmes. The offer complements the DHSH, but is aimed at a small group of students.
What does student life cost in Kiel?
Kiel is relatively affordable for a state capital. The cost of living index is 64 (Numbeo). A shared flat room costs around €380 on average – more moderate than Hamburg or Lübeck.
- Rent (shared flat): €380
- Health insurance: €110
- Groceries & household: €210
- Transport: €40
- Leisure: €80
- Total: approx. €820 per month (excluding tuition)
What makes Kiel special as a study location?
Kiel offers a unique maritime atmosphere. The Kiel Fjord, the beach at Schilksee, and Kieler Woche – the world's largest sailing event – define the city. Sailing, surfing and stand-up paddling are part of student life here. The city has a lively café and pub scene along Holtenauer Straße.
Frequently asked questions about private study in Kiel
DHSH offers a distinct model: dual study alternates theory and practice, and you earn money while studying. This is a different approach from the research-oriented CAU. For a wider range of private programmes, you would need to look to Hamburg.
Yes. The CAU's university sports programme offers affordable sailing courses on the fjord – open to students from other institutions as well. Kiel is the best place in Germany to combine sailing with studying.
Hamburg is reachable by regional train in around 90 minutes. Lübeck is 60 minutes away. Ferries to Scandinavia depart from Kiel – a bonus for international contacts and weekend trips.
Hello, I'm Mrs. Weber, your personal study advisor ✨
Study Advice
Questions about the topic? Use our study advisory service, we are happy to help.