Are you interested in studying at the University of Erfurt? On the following pages you will find all the important information about the range of courses on offer, application and enrolment, advice and services, as well as financing and living at the university city of Erfurt.
Small but lovely
Re-established in 1994 as a reform university, the University of Erfurt sees itself as a research-oriented, internationally focused institution committed to innovation in study programmes and teaching, particularly in teacher training. With its focus on the humanities, social sciences and educational sciences, it is a cosmopolitan hub for academic engagement with the key social and cultural challenges of our time.
Certified as ‘family-friendly’, the University of Erfurt has approximately 5,600 students, 105 professors and a total of around 700 staff members. As a reform-oriented university, it has focused from the outset on bachelor's programmes and master's programmes as well as on interdisciplinarity, and is committed to international academic cooperation with a view to global participation in knowledge and scholarship.
Located on a campus close to the city centre in the state capital, the University of Erfurt facilitates direct communication through its compact layout and promotes intensive study and interdisciplinary research. With its mentoring scheme, the ‘Studium Fundamentale’ programme and guidance on career paths, it also serves as a model for other higher education institutions.
Further information:
Profile of the University of Erfurt
Faculties and departments
The most popular degree programmes at the University of Erfurt, according to Studycheck:
- International Relations
- Educational Science
- Psychology of Teaching, Learning and Training
- Communication Studies
- Primary Education (Primary School Teaching)
Students are satisfied with their degree programme and 93 per cent would recommend the University of Erfurt to others. View the ratings for your chosen degree programme now:
A broad-based approach: interdisciplinary study on the dual-major Bachelor’s programme
With the dual-subject Bachelor’s programme, you will study one main subject and one minor subject at the University of Erfurt. You can combine almost any two bachelor's programmes with one another.
Benefits of a minor:
A minor within a dual-subject Bachelor’s programme enables you to complement your major with additional skills and new perspectives. In this way, you broaden your horizons, develop a unique profile and improve your prospects in the job market.
Studium Fundamentale in the main subject:
The Studium Fundamentale is integrated into your main subject. Additional courses within this programme allow you to apply what you have learnt in practice and acquire further key skills.
It offers you the opportunity to look beyond your own subject and engage with fascinating, socially relevant topics. You will learn to think and work in an interdisciplinary way – a skill that is becoming increasingly important in today’s world.
Why it’s worth it for you:
- You’ll broaden your horizons by gaining insights into various subject areas.
- You’ll develop key skills such as critical thinking and creative problem-solving approaches.
- You’ll improve your social and communication skills, which will benefit you during your studies and later in your career.
- You can contribute your personal interests and values and develop them further.
Studying at the University of Erfurt
What can I study at the University of Erfurt?
Course catalogue of the University of Erfurt
Which degree programmes can I combine?
STUDIMAT: combine easily, get information faster.
Well-equipped
In addition to the Gotha Research Library, the Erfurt University Library – with over a million books and media items – is available directly on campus to university members for learning, teaching and research. It offers a modern collection, as well as historical collections such as the ‘Bibliotheca Amploniana’ – one of the most significant collections of medieval manuscripts.
In addition, the lecture theatres, seminar rooms and computer labs are very well equipped. Laptops, projectors and cameras can be borrowed from the media technology department or the University and Computing Centre. Our podcast room, the Lernwerkstatt and the media education workshop round off the facilities on offer.
Further information:
University Library
Gotha Research Library
University Computer and Media Center (URMZ)
Lernwerkstatt
Werkstatt für Medienbildung
Short distances
The distances to the teaching buildings, residential homes, sports facilities and cafés are short. The university library and the administration offices are also located right on campus.
The subject area of Arts is based in the former School of Applied Arts in the Old Town, which can be reached in a few minutes by tram or on foot. The subject area of Music, in the city centre, is also directly accessible by tram. The Faculty of Catholic Theology, with its lecture theatres and seminar rooms, is situated in the cloister complex of the Gothic cathedral, the heart of Erfurt.
Further information:
Care and support right from the start
The University of Erfurt supports its students right from the start with intensive guidance. During the Student Orientation Days , they get to know not only their new fellow students but also the campus and the modern library. Above all, they receive plenty of useful tips, for example on how to manage their timetable.
In the early stages of their studies, our mentoring programme also helps them settle in quickly. Mentors are university lecturers who support our students in finding the right approach to their studies and are on hand should any difficulties arise.
Further information:
Excellent career prospects
Our students are happy with their studies in Erfurt. They explain why this is the case in short written and video messages on our blog ‘I like my uni’. There, we also share stories from everyday university life.
Careers with a future: We’ve also asked our graduates. They’re now in exciting jobs and look back on their time studying in Erfurt for us. Follow their career paths on our blog!
By the way: Our Founders Service is happy to advise anyone who wants to turn their idea into a business.
Further information:
“I Love My University” blog (students & former students)
University of Erfurt Alumni Network
University of Erfurt Founders Service
Special support for academic careers
The University of Erfurt places great emphasis on supporting young academics and career development. Even after completing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, there are a wide range of opportunities available here.
For example , it ispossible to undertake a doctorate in all subject areas. Those interested in pursuing a doctorate, as well as advanced doctoral candidates, can opt to undertake their doctorate within a certified research training group or at the Max-Weber-Kolleg as part of the structured ‘Erfurt Doctorate and Postdoctoral Programme’ (EPPP). In addition, there is the option of a ‘traditional’ individual PhD within the relevant faculty.
The university also offers various scholarship programmes.
Further information:
Career paths at the University of Erfurt
Graduate Services
Competence-oriented personnel development for academics
Operating internationally
Semester abroad
The University of Erfurt currently has more than 500 international students who enrich the campus with their languages and cultures. At the same time, every year numerous German students take up the opportunity to study for one or two semesters at one of our 172 partner universities or to take part in the ERASMUS programme . The International Office is happy to assist with organising your stay abroad.
Further information:
Organising a semester abroad independently
Studying at a partner university
Working abroad (internships)
A university town with historic charm
From the University of Erfurt campus, you can reach the beautiful old town in ten minutes by tram or bike. It is one of the most beautiful medieval city centres in Germany. As the capital of Thuringia, with a population of around 200,000, Erfurt is a modern city with a historic charm.
Student life in cosy cafés, pubs and clubs, an opera house, as well as parks, museums and galleries, characterise the city’s rich cultural offering. The nearby Thuringian Forest offers numerous opportunities for day trips and relaxation in the countryside.
Further information:
Discover Erfurt, a university city
Website of the City of Erfurt
Living and housing at relatively affordable prices
The cost of living in Erfurt is low compared to other cities. You can enjoy a nice room, healthy food, and trips to the cinema and bars even on a tight budget. With the Germany Semester Ticket, which is included in the semester contribution, students can travel on public transport at low cost. And with the Culture Semester Ticket , they get free entry to numerous municipal cultural venues in Erfurt.
Further information:
Funding your studies
Living in Erfurt
Getting around with the Semester Ticket
Studying at the University of Erfurt - travelling with...
Our students Nathalie (Bachelor's degree in Literary Studies & Management) and Pauline (Bachelor's degree in German Studies & Protestant Religion) will take you on a tour of Erfurt and show you the University of Erfurt campus and their favourite places in the city of Erfurt.
Please note: Once you watch the video, data will be transmitted to Youtube/Google. For more information, see Google Privacy.
A-levels and then?
What are the requirements for studying in Erfurt? In order to study at the University of Erfurt, you generally need the general higher education entrance qualification, in short the Abitur.
There are additional special admission requirements for some bachelor's programmes. These can be, for example, aptitude tests in the fields of Arts, Music or Sport or an aptitude test, such as for Communication Science.
For some master's programmes, participation in the selection process is required.
Degree programmes at the University of Erfurt
What degree programmes are available at the University of Erfurt? How can I find a suitable degree programme? Our course catalogue includes almost 50 bachelor's, Magister and master's programmes with good career prospects, including most subjects without an admission quota.
Fields of study: Which degree programme is right for me?
You don't know what you want to study yet? Then the fields of study, which represent specific interests, will help you.
They are an important orientation aid if you are looking for a suitable degree programme. They also make it easier for you to find alternatives with similar course content.
Bachelor-Master system
The University of Erfurt offers a tiered study system. It consists of two consecutive study programmes: the Bachelor's and the Master's degree.
Firstly, a (basic) Bachelor's degree programme must be completed, which generally requires the Abitur as a general university entrance qualification (three years).
You then have the option of taking up a Master's degree programme (two years). The prerequisite for this is usually proof of a first university degree.
Programme structure with modules
The degree programme at the University of Erfurt consists of several modules, thematically linked teaching units. A module deals with an overarching topic over one or two semesters.
Modules are in turn made up of sub-modules . Within these sub-modules, specific courses are offered, such as lectures, seminars, exercises or internships. Each module concludes with a module examination (written exam, written paper or oral examination).
For the successful completion of a module, you will receive credit points, which are calculated according to the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). These points reflect the amount of work involved.
The degree programme is made up of compulsory modules, which all students must complete, and elective modules, which you can choose from. This allows you to specialise and design your studies individually.
In the final semesters, students are required to complete a major thesis (e.g. bachelor's or master's thesis), which is a module in its own right.
Credit points (LP/ECTS)
The time spent studying is expressed in credit points according to the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (LP/ECTS).
- 1 credit point = 30 hours of work
You collect around 30 credit pointsper semester, which amounts to a total of 180 ECTS for a Bachelor's degree programme. Behind this are 900 hours of work per semester. This corresponds to a 40-hour week including statutory holidays.
Dual-subject Bachelor’s degree & Studium Fundamentale
A distinctive feature of the University of Erfurt is the dual-subject Bachelor’s degree. During your Bachelor’s programme, you will study two subjects: a major and a minor.
The minor subject complements and refines your individual profile by providing additional qualifications for your future educational path or the job market. In addition, the University of Erfurt offers a further area of study integrated into the major subject – the Studium Fundamentale.
Which degree programmes can I combine?
When combining your major with your minor, you may need to follow a few rules, depending on your degree programme. To help you understand the combination rules, the University of Erfurt has developed the online tool Studimat. It helps you find the right combination with just a few clicks.
Secure your place on a Bachelor’s degree programme now!
We’re delighted that you’ve decided to study at the University of Erfurt. We’re happy to assist you with information on the application process and on putting together your application documents. A key factor for your application is whether your chosen degree programmes (main and minor subjects) are open for admission (without an admission quota) or subject to admission restrictions (with an admission quota).
Application for admission-free bachelor's programmes (studying without admissions restricted courses)
- Overview of admission-free degree programmes at the University of Erfurt
- Enrolment period for admission-free degree programmes (without NC) in each case:
- from 01.05. to 15.09.
Start of applications
for bachelor's programmes with no entry requirements (no numerus clausus)
application deadline
for bachelor's programmes with no entry requirements (no numerus clausus)
Application for admissions restricted bachelor's programmes (studying with admissions restricted courses)
- admission-restricted degree programmes at the University of Erfurt:
- International Relations
- Teaching, Learning and Training Psychology (major subject only)
- Primary Education (teaching profession primary schools)
- Application period for degree programmes with restricted admission (with NC) in each case:
- from 01.05. to 15.07.
Start of applications
for bachelor's programmes with restricted admission (with an NC)
application deadline
for bachelor's programmes with restricted admission (subject to a minimum entry mark)
Application for the Master's programme
A Master's degree programme is an advanced degree programme that builds on the Bachelor's degree and usually lasts two years. In this degree programme, you deepen your knowledge in a specific subject area or prepare for a specific appointment.
During the Master's programme, you take advanced courses and seminars. At the end, you write a master's thesis. A Master's degree can increase your chances of finding better jobs and give you access to higher positions in various industries.
Do you already have your Bachelor's degree in your pocket? Then apply for a Master's programme at the University of Erfurt.
That’s us! Get to know even more students at the University of Erfurt through their personal accounts!
General Student Advice and Counselling Service
Guidance and advice for prospective students
The General Student Advice and Counselling Service provides personalised advice on all matters relating to your studies, from the orientation phase right through to graduation. If you are unsure who to contact, they will be happy to put you in touch with the right people to help with your enquiry.
The General Student Advice and Counselling Service provides information and advice on the following topics:
- course catalogue
- Study guides
- further education
- Entry requirements
- application
- Admission restrictions/procedures
- aptitude test
- Aptitude Tests
- semester contribution
- re-registration
- Leave of absence
- Change of degree programme
Open Day & Discovery Days
Open Day on 10.04.2027
Numerous information and counselling services offer you the opportunity to see the study and living conditions in Erfurt for yourself at the Open Day. Get to know the green campus and the beautiful old town centre on guided tours.
Information and programme:
Please note: Once you watch the video, data will be transmitted to Youtube/Google. For more information, see Google Privacy.
Discovery Days 21.06.-25.06.2027
Discovery Days at the University of Erfurt mean experiencing "studying up close". Within a week (on as many days as you like) you can attend selected courses (lectures or seminars) and get a taste of campus life.
Information and programme:
Please note: Once you watch the video, data will be transmitted to Youtube/Google. For more information, see Google Privacy.
Subject advice and counselling on the degree programmes
Do you have any questions about the degree programme?
Advice on subject-specific aspects of the degree programme is provided by subject advisers :
- course catalogue
- Combination options
- Course content
- Entry requirements
- application
- Admission restrictions/procedures
- aptitude test
- Aptitude Tests
- Course content and key areas,
- Study regulations/study plans, examination regulations,
- Academic requirements and evidence of achievement,
- Recognition of previously completed academic achievements (when changing degree programmes and/or universities).
They also provide advice and support with personal planning and organising your degree programme (structuring your timetable, study techniques, exam preparation).
You can find the relevant contact persons on the respective programme pages in our course catalogue.
Studying Abroad – Information on semesters abroad and international study programmes
For student applicants from abroad, the International Office is the first point of contact regarding applications and admission, as well as for any questions or issues that may arise during their studies. A range of integration projects are designed to help students settle in easily and succeed in their studies.
Exchange programmes at the University of Erfurt
Our students can obtain advice and information from the International Office on exchange programmes at the University of Erfurt, as well as on study periods and internships abroad.
Well informed! A guide to starting university
All the information in one booklet
You’ve got your A-levels – what next? Meeting new people – in a great city to live and work in? An affordable flat with good transport links, a rich cultural scene, cool pubs and plenty of leisure activities? We’ve got a brilliant idea for you: studying at the University of Erfurt.
With our ‘Guide to Starting Your Studies: Studying in Erfurt’, we aim to spark your interest, provide you with some basic information about studying at the University of Erfurt, answer the most frequently asked questions and, of course, put you in touch with the right people for any further queries.
Order or download information material
Request free information packs now
Would you like to have a copy of the course brochure? Then request our free information pack with no obligation. You’ll receive it by post, delivered straight to your door, in just a few days.
Order your information pack now!
Don’t want to wait? Then download the leaflet now from the Download Centre.
Our former students are sought-after experts in a wide variety of fields. Studying at the University of Erfurt opens up a wide range of career prospects for you. Be inspired by the career paths of our former students. Discover exciting career fields and individual success stories.
Find out more about our course offerings and the application process for our Bachelor's, Master's and Magister programmes at HIT.
Student orientation days - well prepared for your studies
Starting a degree programme, transferring to another university or moving to another city is a big step that we want to support you with. We offer Student Orientation Days (STET) in the week before classes begin. When you start your studies as a first-semester student, students from the higher semesters, your student tutors, will be there to support you. In addition to preparing you for your studies, you will learn a lot of interesting and exciting facts about studying and student life in Erfurt.
to the Student Orientation Days
Information from the International Office on starting your studies at the University of Erfurt
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