University of Potsdam

The university is one of the most beautifully situated in Germany. It is surrounded by such a great cultural landscape that you can feel the spirit of great scholars and artists in your presence. It is designed as a classical university and has more than 20,000 students. The University of Potsdam has established a clear profile within the rich academic tradition of Brandenburg's capital. Five faculties form the pillars of the institution: 1. The Faculty of Arts 2. The Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences 3. The Faculty of Law 4. The Faculty of Human Sciences 5. The Faculty of Science Key competences have been concentrated in four research foci: Cognitive Sciences, Earth Sciences, Functional Ecology and Evolution, and Plant Genomics and Systems Biology. The university is also connected to institutions of international standing: the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research and the German Institute of Human Nutrition, the Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics as well as the Helmholtz Centre Potsdam - German Research Centre for Geosciences. Close cooperation and joint professorships exist with the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Plant Physiology, the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics, and many other research institutions. This is why Potsdam is known as one of the most densely settled research landscapes in Germany nowadays. More than 8,000 people work in scholarship and science. Making the best possible use of synergies, "pearls - Potsdam Research Network" organises a joint discourse on future research areas. The university is rigorously implementing its plan to improve teaching. Findings from research and development go right back into teaching, and students can feel the intellectual dynamism in their fields. They also notice that their programmes of study are continuously checked for quality. Modular study programmes and the accompanying exams allow students to finish their degree programmes quickly and successfully. The Potsdam Graduate School (POGS) offers more than 20 PhD programmes in different disciplines. It was established to ensure academic support for PhD candidates and to improve the quality of their work. POGS spans across the different departments and makes Potsdam an even more attractive academic site for young scholars from all over the world. After completion of studies or a PhD, the Career Service offers assistance in professional orientation during the crucial application period. Key skills acquired here ease the transition into professional life. Internships as well as contacts to companies can also be established. Graduates with business ideas can seek advice from the university's start-up service Potsdam-Transfer, supported by the Institute for Start-Up and Innovation. A visible sign of success is the Go:Incubator, a start-up centre that allows business ideas to grow.

Founded in 1991, the University of Potsdam is a relatively young institution located in the federal state of Brandenburg, Germany. It was established through the merger of existing higher education institutions in the region, notably including the Hochschule für Literatur und Kunst and the Pädagogische Hochschule Potsdam. The university's creation aimed to consolidate regional academic resources and foster interdisciplinary research and teaching. Over the years, it has grown significantly, now hosting approximately 22,000 students and over 3,000 staff members, making it one of the prominent universities in eastern Germany. The university's development was driven by the vision to promote academic excellence and international cooperation, which is reflected in its diverse course offerings and extensive research programs. It comprises several faculties, including Humanities, Education and Psychology, Law, Economics and Social Sciences, Science, and others. Its campus features historical buildings and modern facilities, creating a vibrant academic environment. The University of Potsdam emphasizes research in areas such as environmental sciences, human sciences, digital media, and more, contributing valuable insights to contemporary global challenges. It has established numerous international partnerships and actively encourages exchange programs, fostering a global academic community. The university also prioritizes academic innovation, digitalization, and sustainability initiatives. Notable alumni and faculty have contributed significantly to various fields, and the institution continues to expand its influence through research and teaching excellence. Its strategic location near Berlin offers students and staff access to a wide array of cultural and professional opportunities. The university's history reflects its commitment to fostering research, education, and regional development, positioning it as a key academic institution in Germany.

Acceptance requirements at the University of Potsdam primarily depend on the specific program and level of study. For undergraduate studies, applicants generally need to have completed secondary education comparable to the German Hochschulreife, with evidence of proficiency in English or German, depending on the language of instruction of the selected program. International students are usually required to provide proof of language skills through standardized tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, or DSH, and may also need to pass entrance examinations or interviews for certain courses.

For master's programs, applicants must hold a relevant undergraduate degree from a recognized university. Specific prerequisites vary by program and may include prerequisite coursework, a minimum GPA, or work experience. Many postgraduate courses are taught in English, so applicants must demonstrate sufficient proficiency in English, often by submitting test scores like TOEFL or IELTS; some programs may also accept other language certificates or require German language skills, especially if instructed in German.

The application process typically involves submitting an online application form, academic transcripts, proof of language competencies, a CV, motivation letter, and sometimes references or a portfolio, depending on the program. Non-EU international students often need to provide an application for residence permit and may undergo additional admission procedures. The university provides specific admission deadlines and detailed instructions on the application process on its official website. Applicants are advised to check the particular requirements and deadlines for their chosen program well in advance to ensure compliance and successful admission. In some cases, additional entrance examinations or interviews may be required as part of the evaluation process.

Overall, the University of Potsdam emphasizes academic excellence, language proficiency, and relevant preparation for acceptance into its diverse range of bachelor's and master's programs, aiming to admit qualified students from around the world.

University of Potsdam is accredited by the German Council of Science and Humanities (Wissenschaftsrat), which is the main accreditation and quality assurance agency in Germany responsible for evaluating universities and their study programs. The accreditation process ensures that the university meets high standards of academic quality, research excellence, and administrative effectiveness. The University of Potsdam has also received accreditation for specific study programs from recognized agencies, such as ACQUIN (Akkreditierungsagentur für Studiengänge im Bereich der Gesundheitswissenschaften, der Humanmedizin, der Wissenschaften und der Wirtschaft), which evaluates individual degree programs to ensure they meet national and international standards. The accreditation of the university and its programs confirms the institution's commitment to maintaining academic rigor, fostering research, and providing a high-quality education to students. The process involves rigorous assessments, peer reviews, and compliance with national quality standards. Additionally, the university undergoes periodic re-evaluation to sustain its accreditation status. This accreditation status facilitates the recognition of the university's degrees both nationally and internationally, enables students to access various funding and exchange programs, and encourages continuous improvement across all academic and administrative areas. The University of Potsdam's accreditation status also signifies its adherence to the Bologna Process in Europe, which aims to harmonize higher education systems across the continent for better comparability and mobility. Overall, accreditation plays a crucial role in ensuring that the University of Potsdam continues to provide excellent education and research opportunities, maintains transparency and accountability, and remains competitive in the global higher education landscape.

A world heritage site and once a city of kings and royal residences, today Potsdam is the capital of Brandenburg and at the same time a European city of culture, science, and media. The heart of Prussia is famous for its palaces and parks, its gardens and villas, and its numerous museums. It is traditionally a city of learning and research whose worldwide reputation rests substantially upon work in the natural sciences in the fields of astro- and gravitation physics and Earth sciences. Beyond that, Potsdam is a vivid city in the vibrant metropolitan area of Berlin-Brandenburg. For many inhabitants, it is a very attractive place to live. Because of its unique location, you will find green oases where you can unwind within walking distance, and at the same time you can reach the German capital, Berlin, in just 30 minutes by public transport. In the historic city centre of Potsdam, the Hans Otto theatre, the Nikolaisaal concert hall, the House of Brandenburg-Prussian History, and the Film Museum provide opportunities to enjoy classical as well as modern culture. Those who enjoy the arts scene are also in the right place in Potsdam. Readings, small concerts, and theatre performances can be experienced in many different locations spread across the entire city, sometimes even on a boat. Thus, you can embark upon a cultural journey through literature, theatre, fine arts, music, film, and museums and enjoy the culture of Potsdam for yourself. As a young, growing city, Potsdam offers good conditions for young families, providing lots of childcare and family support facilities. Potsdam has been ranked as the most family-friendly city in Germany. In a nutshell, Potsdam has the infrastructure of a metropolis while still retaining its comfortable ambiance.

The International Office provides advice to international students on all administrative issues as well as on legal and financial questions. All programmes have coordinators who should be contacted with any questions regarding the study programme, application, and details of the specific programme. The University of Potsdam offers various programmes and courses to support international students (Buddy Programme, Tandem Programme, preparatory courses). The Buddy Programme offers a support network in which students of the university assist newly arrived students before and upon their arrival in Potsdam and at the university.

The University of Potsdam offers a unique academic environment characterized by its strong focus on research, international collaboration, and interdisciplinary approaches. It is located in the picturesque city of Potsdam, close to Berlin, providing students with access to a vibrant cultural and political hub while enjoying a tranquil campus setting. The university is renowned for its high-quality teaching and research in fields such as humanities, social sciences, environmental sciences, and digital technologies, making it an attractive choice for students seeking a comprehensive and innovative education. Its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies encourages students to explore multiple perspectives and develop critical thinking skills. The university actively promotes international exchange programs and has numerous partnerships with institutions worldwide, fostering a global perspective and cultural diversity among students. Additionally, University of Potsdam invests in modern facilities, digital learning tools, and supportive academic services to enhance student success. The campus offers a welcoming atmosphere, student clubs, and a range of extracurricular activities that contribute to a well-rounded university experience. The university's commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is reflected in its curriculum and research initiatives, preparing students to address pressing global challenges. Overall, the University of Potsdam combines academic excellence, international orientation, and a supportive community, making it an excellent choice for prospective students seeking a forward-thinking university education in Germany.