FHDW University of Applied Sciences

The FHDW University of Applied Sciences is a private, state-recognised university  based in North Rhine-Westphalia. It was founded in 1993, making it one of the first private universities of applied sciences in NRW. For the winter semester 2024/2025, 2,059 students were enrolled at the FHDW. The university is privately owned, but its recognition by the Ministry of Science of NRW guarantees the equivalence of its degrees with those of state universities.

The FHDW is system accredited by the accreditation agency FIBAA. Additionally, in 2008, it was institutionally accredited by the Council of Science and lastly in 2019 with a reaccreditation for ten years. This means that the university meets all requirements for academic quality, staffing, and financial stability. Its degree programmes are based on the ECTS system, are modularised, and comply with international standards.

The FHDW offers a specialised range of courses in the fields of Business Administration, Business Informatics, and Applied Computer Science. It relies on two study models: the dual study programme and the part-time study programme. The dual study programme is characterised by a regular rotation of about three months each between theoretical phases at the university and practical phases in companies. This close integration of academic teaching and practical experience optimally prepares students for entry into the workforce. The university's network includes around 800 partner companies, many of which cover tuition fees and offer long-term employment prospects.

The part-time study programme is aimed at individuals who wish to further their academic qualifications alongside their professional activities. It comprises both Bachelor's and Master's programmes and is tailored to the needs of working professionals in terms of schedule and content. The Master's programmes focus on specialisations in business administration and information technology, specifically preparing students for leadership positions.

The university places great value on a personal study atmosphere. Small study groups, intense supervision by lecturers, direct communication, and individual career guidance enable close support throughout the entire course of study. The study organisation is focused on efficiency and individual suitability. Students receive comprehensive support in academic work, career choices, and balancing study with everyday life responsibilities.

Internationalisation is a central element of FHDW. The university maintains a broad network of partner universities worldwide and promotes the mobility of students and lecturers abroad through programs such as Erasmus+ and PROMOS. All campuses have an International Office that provides organisational support for students during their stays abroad, from choosing a university and advising on scholarships to finding accommodation in the host country.

Research at the FHDW is application-oriented and practical. It is carried out in close collaboration with companies and in institute-related structures. Research institutes include the Center for Automotive Management (CAM), the Institute for Financial Management (IFF), the German Institute for Asset Accumulation and Old-Age Provisions (DIVA), and the German Center for Sustainable Economic Development and Skilled Labour (DZNF). Thematic focuses include Artificial Intelligence in the Workplace, Information Security, Mobile Services, and Digitalisation.

Equality, inclusion, and diversity are central components of the university's philosophy. FHDW actively promotes gender equality, supports individual lifestyle choices, and implements measures to improve the compatibility of study, family, and work responsibilities. This is reflected in the structure of its part-time programmes and in its structural support offerings.

Particularly noteworthy is the ethically reflective approach to the topic of Artificial Intelligence. FHDW integrates AI as a forward-looking technology in teaching and research, but also promotes a critical examination of its applications and limitations. By providing clear guidelines, supportive pedagogy, and transparent assessments, responsible use of AI in studies is ensured.

The FHDW has a presence at five locations: Paderborn (founding location), Bergisch Gladbach, Bielefeld, Mettmann, and Marburg. Each campus is equipped with modern infrastructure, seminar and lounge rooms, and in some cases, connected dormitories. The regional integration in economically strong areas and proximity to urban centres such as Cologne, Düsseldorf, or Frankfurt provide students with an attractive environment for study and leisure.

Overall, the University of Applied Sciences for Business is characterised by a highly practice-oriented study concept, strong entrepreneurial networking, international focus, intensive support, and a research-oriented academic profile. It thus offers ideal conditions for a successful academic and professional development in the economic and information technology environment.