Universities of Applied Sciences demonstrate excellence through hands-on learning and scientific research, backed by global studies.
In a significant move, Germany's universities of applied sciences are bolstering their ties with practical application and companies, showcasing their strengths in scientific research and career preparation.
Minister Dorothee, in her confirmation upon assuming office in May 2025, highlighted the importance of these institutions. Scientific research, she asserted, plays a significant role in universities of applied sciences in Germany, and it is a priority for them.
One such example is the development of a smart textiles bachelor program at the University of Applied Sciences in Niederrhein, in collaboration with partner universities in Belgium, Finland, Sweden, and Indonesia. This program underscores the universities' commitment to international collaboration and innovation.
Another notable initiative is the "Global Women in Engineering and IT" project, led by the University of Applied Sciences and Economics in Berlin. This project aims to promote academic exchange for women in these fields through a collaboration with partner universities, although the specific universities involved have not been explicitly listed.
The German Research Foundation (DFG) is also supporting the exchange of researchers between German universities of applied sciences and their counterparts in Central Asia, particularly Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. This initiative covers topics such as digitization, sustainable urban development, renewable energy, and resource management.
Recently, Scotland and Jordan have also emerged as key players in the international exchange program for universities of applied sciences, further expanding the global reach of these collaborations.
The HAW.International program of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) has been fostering multi-faceted networking among universities of applied sciences for over five years. Institutions like the University of Applied Sciences in Neu-Ulm and the University of Applied Sciences in Niederrhein are prime examples of universities involved in these international partnerships.
One tangible outcome of these partnerships is the establishment of an international startup network at the University of Applied Sciences in Neu-Ulm. This network underscores the practical application and industry relevance that these universities strive to achieve.
A conference held in May 2025 in Dortmund showcased the diversity of these international partnerships, demonstrating the growing importance of these collaborations in the global academic landscape. It is planned to develop programs like "Scientific Research at Universities of Applied Sciences" in Germany, further cementing the country's commitment to these institutions and their role in scientific research and innovation.
While internationalization is not explicitly mentioned as a priority, given the context of universities working closely with companies, it may be inferred that internationalization could be an implicit priority due to the potential for collaboration with international companies. These universities are not only preparing students for future careers but are also fostering a global network of innovation and collaboration.
