CODE University of Applied Sciences

The CODE University of Applied Sciences is a private, state-recognized university located in Berlin, specializing in training professionals for digital product development. It was founded in 2017 by Thomas Bachem, Manuel Dolderer, and Jonathan Rüth and received state recognition from the Berlin Senate Chancellery - Science and Research on July 14, 2017. By the winter semester of 2024/2025, 457 students were enrolled.

Since August 2024, the campus has been situated in the newly constructed KALLE building at Donaustraße 44 in Berlin-Neukölln. Previously, CODE was part of the start-up campus Factory Berlin at Görlitzer Park.

CODE aims to establish a novel, practice-oriented university education for the digital economy. This is where innovative thinkers and future shapers come together to redefine learning. They are supported by over 50 of Germany’s most successful startup founders.

Founded in 2017 with a clear vision, CODE aimed to bridge the gap between academic learning and the rapidly evolving demands of the tech industry. The university targets students interested in software development, digital design, product management, and entrepreneurship.

The educational concept of the university is based on self-directed, project-based, and competence-oriented learning. Key didactic approaches include Mastery Learning, Flipped Classroom, and Peer Learning. Students work in interdisciplinary teams on real projects, often in close collaboration with corporate partners. Learning follows a competency grid, with each student receiving an individual competency profile at the beginning of their studies, systematically developed throughout the course.

CODE offers four study programs: Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, Bachelor of Arts in Digital Design & Innovation, Bachelor of Arts in Business Management & Entrepreneurship, and Master of Science in Technology & Management, which can also be completed as a part-time model. All programs are state-accredited and taught entirely in English. A central component of the curriculum is the Science, Technology & Society (STS) program, addressing interdisciplinary societal, ethical, and philosophical issues.

The selection process for applicants is multi-stage and does not rely on traditional criteria like grades or standardized tests. It includes an online application, a video interview, a project-based task ("Challenge"), and an Assessment Day on-site or digitally. The goal is to identify highly motivated and creative individuals who fit the university's learning model. For the winter semester of 2017, 88 students were admitted from around 2,000 applications.

Tuition fees, typically €1,150 per month, finance the studies. To reduce financial barriers, CODE offers the "Pay Later Model," a reversed generational contract where graduates repay a percentage of their income only after reaching a certain minimum income. Over 80% of students utilise this model.

CODE positions itself as an international university: 33% of students and 36% of staff are international. The university is part of the Erasmus+ program and maintains partnerships with universities such as NTNU (Norway), Elisava (Spain), IADE (Portugal), and TU Eindhoven (Netherlands). Internationalisation, diversity, and intercultural learning are core values.

The campus provides a modern learning environment with flexible workspaces, a makerspace, a music studio, a shared kitchen, event spaces, and retreat areas. Special rooms include the "Lab" for prototyping, "Tetris" for large study units, "Muted" as a Silent Area, and "Eight Bit" as an audio studio. Students have 24/7 access. The building also houses community areas and creative spaces for collaboration and networking.

CODE is strongly connected to the tech and start-up scene, founded by entrepreneurs and collaborating with companies like Meta, Porsche, Telekom, Masterplan, and many others. There is an intense exchange with practical projects, events, and research collaborations. Students' entrepreneurial thinking is particularly encouraged, with over 120 start-ups founded by CODE students to date.

The university prioritises diversity, inclusion, and mental health. Specific support services are available for FLINTA and LGBTQIA+ individuals, accessible infrastructure, retreat and prayer rooms, and psychological counselling. The university regularly conducts workshops and discussions on socially relevant issues and actively participates in inclusive initiatives.

Organizationally, the university is a member of the Stifterverband für die Deutsche Wissenschaft, the Association of Private Universities, the Federal Association of German Startups, and the Society for Computer Science. Founder Thomas Bachem is also a member of the Senate of the German Academy of Engineering Sciences.

With an innovative learning model, strong practical orientation, international focus, and comprehensive commitment to diversity and social responsibility, CODE positions itself as a pioneering university for the digital world.

The university focuses on curiosity and core competencies that enable students to succeed in a rapidly changing world – even in fields that do not yet exist today. Because C❮❯DE stands for Curiosity-Driven Education.