University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE)

The University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE) is a state-recognized private university with its headquarters in Potsdam and additional locations in Berlin, Hamburg, Iserlohn, and an international campus in Dubai. The university was founded in the year 2000 under the name Business and Information Technology School (BiTS) in Iserlohn. After merging with the Berlin Technical Art School (BTK) in 2017, it was initially known as the University of Applied Sciences Europe and was finally renamed the University of Europe for Applied Sciences in 2021. Since 2018, it has been part of the international education group Global University Systems (GUS).

In the winter semester 2024/2025, the university had a total of 6,251 students and follows a modern educational model with a focus on interdisciplinary, practice-oriented training. The range of courses includes a wide variety of bachelor's and master's programmes in the fields of Business & Sport, Health & Psychology, Technology & Software, and Art & Design.

Prospective students benefit from a close connection between theory and practice, as well as project-based learning with a strong practical orientation. Excursions, guest lectures, business projects, and internships are integral parts of many programmes.

The courses are offered in both German and English. Admission is granted without a NC (Numerus Clausus). In addition to a high-school diploma, professional qualifications with relevant work experience are recognized as admission requirements. International applicants need to provide language certificates (German or English at level B2). For some courses, especially in the field of Art & Design, a portfolio is required. A bachelor's degree program typically consists of six semesters with an integrated practical or semester abroad in the fifth semester. Master's programs vary between two and four semesters. The degrees comprise 180 ECTS in the bachelor's and 60, 90, or 120 ECTS in the master's.

The four German locations of UE each offer different study focuses and modern infrastructure: The Berlin campus is situated at Potsdamer Platz and particularly hosts programs in Business, Tech, and Design. The Hamburg campus in Altona is located in a historical building and emphasises creativity and entrepreneurial thinking. The Iserlohn campus, as the originating location of the university, maintains a familial atmosphere and offers a wide range of studies in sports, health, and economics. The UE Innovation Hub at the SAP Think Campus in Potsdam focuses on pioneering technological developments and digital transformation. The newest location in Dubai gives students the opportunity to obtain a German university degree in an international context.

International orientation is highly valued at UE: The university maintains partnerships with over 50 renowned universities worldwide. These include institutions such as San Diego State University, University of Westminster, OCAD University Toronto, University of Technology Sydney, and Chung-Ang University Seoul. Studies abroad are usually integrated into the fifth semester of the bachelor's program and are supported through programs like Erasmus+.

The technical equipment at all locations meets the highest standards: iMac workstations, VR and gaming labs, photo studios, green screen rooms, sound studios, as well as design and media laboratories are available to students. A significant advantage of the university is its close cooperation with leading companies such as Audi, Unilever, BASF, Canon, DHL, Merck, Daimler, and RTL. The UE Career Development Center offers career training, job application support, and access to a comprehensive network. According to an internal survey of graduates from 2023, over 90% of UE graduates find employment within twelve months of completing their studies.

The university also offers a variety of scholarships, including the BVB Scholarship (in cooperation with Borussia Dortmund), the Sherryl Kintu Scholarship for creative and committed Art & Design students, the Digital Pioneers Scholarship, the Cultural Diversity Scholarship, and the Women in Tech Scholarship, which specifically supports female talent in technical disciplines. Additional scholarships, for siblings or spouses, assist in financial planning for studying at UE.

The University of Europe for Applied Sciences is institutionally accredited by the FIBAA and ZEvA agencies and is a member of the international university network AACSB. In the academic year 2024/25, the university was awarded the highest rating of 5 stars by the STERN magazine in collaboration with Globis in the field of further education providers. In rankings by the Art Directors Club (ADC) between 2017 and 2019, UE consistently achieved placements in the top 20 creative universities in Germany.

Through its online campus, UE enables flexible teaching formats and digital access to study content. The study program can thus be organised independent of location. As an international university with students from over 129 countries, UE sees itself as a modern educational provider in the digital age, promoting innovation, diversity, practical relevance, and international networking.