All 65 Colleges and Universities in North Rhine Westphalia

Are you looking for all the colleges and universities in North Rhine Westphalia? Here, we will go over the list of private and public universities and colleges in North Rhine Westphalia.

In our database, there are a total of 65 institutions in North Rhine Westphalia including Academy of Media Arts Cologne, Alanus University of Arts and Social Sciences, and Bielefeld University . Out of those institutions, 43 are public and 22 are private. Some of the public institutions are Academy of Media Arts Cologne, Bielefeld University, and Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences. Some examples of private universities in North Rhine Westphalia are Alanus University of Arts and Social Sciences, Catholic University of Applied Sciences of North Rhine-Westphalia, and CBS International Business School.

In these universities and colleges in North Rhine Westphalia, the total number of students is 955,742, and the total number of international students is 56,357.

1. Academy of Media Arts Cologne

The Academy of Media Arts Cologne, also known as KHM (Kunsthochschule für Medien Köln), was founded in 1989. It is a public academic institution that offers courses in Media and Fine Arts, along with seminar-type classes in Art, Film and Television, and Literary Writing. The academy is home to over 400 students, with nearly 50% international students. 

2. Alanus University of Arts and Social Sciences

The Alanus University of Arts and Social Sciences is a private institution that offers degree programs in various fields of art, business, and humanities. All students at the university are required to take a general education program or Studium Generale. This includes having them attend interactive lectures and seminars with the intention of fostering the students' critical thinking, social skills, and  overall  development.

3. Bielefeld University

Bielefeld University is a public university in Germany. Since its opening in 1969, it has produced countless graduates who have gone on to become successful in their chosen fields. Furthermore, Bielefeld has 14 faculties that offer a wide range of study options.

4. Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences

Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences was established in 1971. It is a public university that blends theory and practice by combining internships, work placements, and other practical activities with classroom learning. It also works closely with different sectors of society in conducting several research projects aimed at addressing global issues. 

5. Bochum University of Applied Sciences

As one of the largest universities in Bochum, the Bochum University of Applied Sciences houses nearly 10,000 students and approximately 1,000 faculty & staff. Also known as BO, this institution primarily focuses on three different areas: engineering, space & construction, and economics. To further strengthen its academic renown, BO has partnered with universities around the globe, and it currently implements study abroad programs in Great Britain, France, and Spain. In order to replicate institutions in the United States, the university has remodeled the academic facilities to create individual workstations for each of its students.

6. Catholic University of Applied Sciences of North Rhine-Westphalia

Catholic University of Applied Sciences of North Rhine-Westphalia is a private, non-profit institution in Cologne, Germany. It is one of the country's largest religious universities with four campuses: Aachen, Cologne, Muenster, and Paderborn. Besides theology and religious courses, they also offer social services and health science degree programs.

7. CBS International Business School

CBS International Business School is a private university in Cologne, Germany specializing in Business Applied Sciences degree programs. It was founded in 1993 and has since built 7 campuses in the country. The university is currently home to over 4,000 students, with around 30% international students.

8. College of Church Music Herford-Witten

The College of Church Music Herford-Witten was established in 1947. It is a private institution situated in Herford, North Rhine-Westphalia. The College of Church Music Herford-Witten awards higher education degrees in different studies as recognized by the Ministry of Culture and Science of North Rhine-Westphalia.

9. Cologne University of Applied Sciences

Technische Hochschule Köln is also known as the Cologne University of Applied Sciences in English. However, it is widely known as TH Köln for short. This public institution offers 100+ programs in various fields: applied sciences, business, architecture, engineering, computer, social sciences, etc. Three campuses comprise TH Köln: Cologne, Gummersbach and Leverkusen.

10. Cologne University of Catholic Theology

The Cologne University of Catholic Theology was established in 1925. It is a private institution situated in Sankt Agustin, North Rhine-Westphalia. The Cologne University of Catholic Theology, as recognized by the Ministry of Culture and Science of North Rhine-Westphalia, grants higher education degrees in several areas of study.

11. Cologne University of Music

Known in German as Hochschule für Musik und Tanz Köln, the Cologne University of Music is one of the biggest music schools in Europe and one of the leading institutions in performing arts. Since it was among the first music schools in Europe, this university has gained several accolades and awards from the government, and even now, many musicians around the world compete for a place to perform in this prestigious music academy. If you are interested in music, applying for the Cologne University of Music can be a great career choice.

12. Diakonie University of Applied Sciences

The Diakonie University of Applied Sciences was established in 2006. It is situated in Bielefeld, North Rhine-Westphalia. The Diakonie University of Applied Sciences grants higher education degrees as recognized by the Ministry of Culture and Science of North Rhine-Westphalia.

13. Düsseldorf Art Academy

The Düsseldorf Art Academy, or Kunstakademie Düsseldorf in German, is an institution that provides academic training in Arts and arts-related sciences. Some of the programs the academy offers are Architecture, Sculpture, Stage Design, and Film and Video. It was founded in 1773 as the Electoral Palatinate Academy of Painting, Sculpture, and Architecture.

14. EBZ Business School

EBZ Business School is a young and modern university built in 2008. It's a premier higher education institution for business administration, project management, and real estate licensing. The institution is supported by EBZ Foundation and offers government-approved degree programs. Moreover, the university aims to provide high-quality teaching and train its students with a thorough foundation in the skills and in-depth knowledge that are highly sought in the industry.

15. European University of Applied Sciences

European University of Applied Sciences (EU|FH), known in german as Europäische Fachhochschule, is a private university that provides higher education in the field of medicine, social science, and education. This selection of academic disciplines was specifically chosen by the university as these are deemed to play an essential role in society and, simultaneously, prevent any shortage of workers in these aforementioned industry sectors. Above all, the institution aims to cultivate a pool of experts to help sustain and contribute to the country’s stable and ever-growing economy.

16. Fachhochschule Dortmund – University of Applied Sciences and Arts

Fachhochschule Dortmund - University of Applied Sciences and Arts is a public institution in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Three campuses and seven faculties comprise the university. These faculties are applied social sciences, architecture, design, electrical engineering, computer science, information technology, mechanical engineering, and business studies. They offer a few English-taught master's programs.

17. Federal University of Applied Administrative Sciences

The Federal University of Applied Administrative Sciences was established in 1978. It focuses on higher federal administrative services. The Federal University of Applied Administrative Sciences offers courses such as business management, constitutional law, political science, public finance, economics, and psychology, among others.

18. FH Aachen

FH Aachen is also known as the Aachen University of Applied Sciences. The school has two locations: Aachen and Julich. There is a variety of degree programs being offered, especially the university's specialist areas like business, engineering, and technology.

19. FH Münster

FH Münster, or Fachhochschule Münster, is one of the largest German public applied sciences universities. It is no surprise that it offers 100+ programs in the sciences, business, engineering, management, health, etc. Another notable feat is that it is the first applied science university to be accredited in Germany.

20. Fliedner University of Applied Sciences of Düsseldorf

Founded in 2011, Fliedner University of Applied Sciences of Düsseldorf is a small-scale private institution in Düsseldorf, Germany. The higher education programs offered are primarily focused on health and social services. These carefully selected degree programs are always in demand and considered relevant careers to society.  Moreover, this young university has network connections from different regional sectors, specifically in the healthcare and social work industries. Students will benefit from these vital connections and have countless opportunities upon graduating.

21. Folkwang University of the Arts

Folkwang University of the Arts is a public institution that offers a selection of arts courses, as well as, academic studies programs. It was established in 1927 and is located in Essen. It also has other facilities situated in Duisburg, Bochum, and Dortmund.

22. FOM University of Applied Sciences for Economics and Management

FOM University of Applied Sciences for Economics and Management, shortly referred to as FOM, is a private university in Essen, Germany. With more than 57,000 students, it is one of the largest private institutions in the country. The university offers degree programs in Business, Economics, IT, Engineering, and Health.

23. Georg Agricola University of Applied Sciences

Named after a mining pioneer Georg Agricola, the Georg Agricola University of Applied Sciences (THGA) was first established as a mining school to train workers to supplement the mining facilities. As years went on, the former mining school transformed into an engineering college, and now, it is a fully-fledged institution that teaches a variety of academic programs. Currently, this university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in process engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and industrial engineering. If you are interested in research into post-mining, applying to THGA might be a great option for you.

24. German Sport University Cologne

German Sport University Cologne takes a very special position as the only sports university in Germany. It offers various sports-related courses and is equipped with adequate facilities and resources. The university has greatly expanded with its research and innovative infrastructures to provide more high-quality education for its students.

25. Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences

Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences (German: Hochschule Hamm-Lippstadt), is a public university located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. It's two campuses in Hamm and Lippstadt offer students technologically advanced facilities for future-oriented education. At present, more than 5,700 students are taking up bachelor's and master's courses in Engineering and Business.

26. Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf

Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf is a German educational institution that is open to students at all tertiary levels. It is located in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. Moreover, the institution specializes in arts, business, humanities, law, mathematics, and more.

27. Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, University of Applied Sciences

Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, University of Applied Sciences (H-BRS) is a public university found in the area around Cologne and Bonn. It has three primary locations: Sankt Augustin, Rheinbach and Hennef/Sieg. The university also runs another institution, Bonn-Aachen International Center for Information Technology, with other universities (Bonn University and Aachen Technical University). More than 30 programs are available at H-BRS.

28. Hochschule für Musik Detmold

Hochschule für Musik Detmold is a public music school in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. It is a relatively small institution that offers specialized programs in orchestral instruments, piano, singing, guitar, accordion, saxophone, recorder, church music, organ, conducting, music education, and music production. Established in 1946, Hochschule für Musik Detmold now ranks 246th in Germany and 43rd in North Rhine-Westphalia by EduRank.

29. International School of Management

International School of Management puts emphasis on practical training. It prepares students for the business industry's complexities and molds them to become experts in the field someday. The institution has various campuses in and out of the country, which is why it has a strong linkage with foreign enterprises.

30. IST University of Applied Sciences

IST University of Applied Sciences provides high-quality study programs at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. As an applied science university, most of its courses are concentrated in the field of management, such as tourism and hospitality, communication and business, and sports business. Furthermore, one of the university’s key features is implementing blended learning, a preferred learning approach that will enable students to study anywhere at any time.

31. IU International University of Applied Sciences

Located in the central part of Germany, the IU International University of Applied Science is a privately-run institution that specializes in distance learning and education that mixes distance learning and on-campus lessons. Established in 1998, this university was first founded to conduct in-class sessions; however, due to the recent pandemic, this institution has added the term International to encourage learning even through virtual means.

32. IUBH School of Business and Management

IUBH School of Business and Management was established in 1998. It is a private university located in Bad Honnef. The IUBH School of Business and Management offers various courses such as Online Marketing, Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Finance, Accounting, and Taxation, among others.

33. Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences

Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences was established in 1971. It is considered one of the top applied-science universities in Germany. Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences covers different fields of study such as engineering, sciences, healthcare, and economics, among others.

34. OWL University of Applied Sciences and Arts

OWL University of Applied Sciences and Arts is one of the top-performing research institutes in Germany. It operates across three campuses and offers programs in the fields of architecture, design, and engineering. Through rigorous practical learning and coursework, the university aims to train the next generation of talents who will lead in the development of their chosen fields.

35. Paderborn University

Located in Paderborn, a city known for its contributions to the country's IT industry, Paderborn University is recognized for its outstanding education and research in computer science and its applications to different disciplines. The university strives to make an impact on the global information society through conducting different international research activities. It also believes that teaching and research must work hand-in-hand to produce socially aware and technologically skilled individuals who would help improve society. 

36. Protestant University of Applied Sciences Rhineland-Westphalia-Lippe

The Protestant University of Applied Sciences Rhineland-Westphalia-Lippe was founded in 1971. Through the years, it is one of the institutions that was transformed into a university of applied sciences. The Protestant University of Applied Sciences Rhineland-Westphalia-Lippe offers courses in social work, management, education, etc.

37. RFH – University of Applied Science Cologne

RFH - University of Applied Science, Cologne has been providing world-class quality engineering, management, media, and health education for more than 60 years. The university has established strong partnerships with companies from different industries in the region where students can gain practical learning through industry projects and internships. It also greatly supports its students and faculty in conducting research for topics that most interest them. 

38. Rhenish Friedrich Wilhelm University of Bonn

The Rhenish Friedrich Wilhelm University of Bonn offers more than 200 courses for over 35,000 German and international students. It is known for its academic excellence and innovative research aimed at promoting sustainability and addressing different social and scientific issues. It is also recognized as the university that has produced the most Nobel Prize winners and recipients of other notable awards in Germany. 

39. Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences

Founded in 2009, Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences is a public institution of higher learning in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. The university is known for its global academic orientation, as proven by its wide selection of English-taught courses. At present, its student population consists of more than 7,000, with over 50% international students.

40. Robert Schumann Conservatory

The Robert Schumann Conservatory is the leading school for music in Germany. It aims to prepare students for a wide range of musical professions - from composition to performance. The university uses a balanced mix of learning through practice and theory to ensure that students develop a deep understanding of their craft.

41. Ruhr University Bochum

Ruhr University Bochum is one of the largest public universities in Germany, with over 42,000 students. The university is also home to more than 6,000 international students and over 6,000 academic and non-academic staff. It offers bachelor's and master's programs in Social Science, Theology, History, Engineering, and Sciences.

42. Ruhr West University of Applied Sciences

Ruhr West University of Applied Sciences provides high-quality and practice-oriented education to more than 6,300 students in different fields such as business administration, computer science, and engineering. Before graduating, students at the university have to undergo a practical semester for them to apply their learnings. They also gain professional experience through internships and work placement programs.

43. RWTH Aachen University

RWTH Aachen University is among the top universities in Germany and is most recognized for its excellence in engineering and natural sciences. The university strongly focuses on research and practical learning, which is why it continues to maintain close ties with its industry partners. The university also takes pride in producing many notable individuals who have received various awards in research and innovation. 

44. South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences

South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences was established in 2002; however, its predecessors can be traced back to early 1824. The university offers a broad spectrum of future-oriented study programs. Most of its courses are widely known as top-rated programs in Germany. Furthermore, the institution has five strategically scattered locations in North Rhine-Westphalia. Each campus has modern facilities, laboratories, study halls, and training rooms.

45. SRH University in North Rhine-Westphalia

Located in the western part of Germany, SRH University in North Rhine-Westphalia is a private institution that puts its emphasis on four academic fields, which are psychology, economics, social sciences, and logistics. Compared to its other counterparts, this university is pretty young due to its founding in 2005; however, its academic programs in the applied sciences are one of the best picks in the region. Offering a variety of bachelor's and master's courses, this institution is a great choice for students who are interested in studying in the above four fields.

46. Technical University Dortmund

The Technical University of Dortmund, also referred to as TU Dortmund University, is a public higher education institution. The school has a variety of bachelor's and master's courses being offered. It has been placed in research rankings for subject areas, such as economics, chemistry, engineering, and physics.

47. University of Applied Health Sciences, Bochum

University of Applied Health Sciences, Bochum follows a strong combination of theoretical and practical learning, especially since it highly focuses on science and technology programs. The university is equipped with all the necessary tools and facilities to aid in the students' learning process. Throughout the years, it has already created vast external connections and emerged as one of the region's leading universities.

48. University of Applied Sciences (FHDW)

Known in German for short as FHDW, this University of Applied Sciences combines computer science and business to create high-quality academic programs for its prospective students. Specializing in business administration and business informatics, this institution offers an array of programs that will meet your academic tastes and preferences. In addition to top-tier academic courses, FHDW University of Applied Sciences also offers interesting career opportunities to all of its graduates.

49. University of Applied Sciences Düsseldorf

University of Applied Sciences Düsseldorf, or Hochschule Düsseldorf (HSD) in German, is among the premier applied sciences institutions in the country. HSD takes an interdisciplinary approach when it comes to education and research, imparting practical knowledge and skills to students. As a global institution, HSD has also multiple partnerships with various universities abroad in order to facilitate different programs and encourage international exchange.

50. University of Applied Sciences for Medium-Sized Companies

The University of Applied Sciences for Medium-Sized Companies was founded in 2000. It is situated in the city of Bielefeld, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. It is a private institution that grants higher education degrees.

51. University of Applied Sciences for Police and Public Administration in North Rhine-Westphalia

The University of Applied Sciences for Police and Public Administration in North Rhine-Westphalia, or Hochschule für Polizei und öffentliche Verwaltung Nordrhein-Westfalen (HSPV NRW) in German, is one of the the country's biggest universities for public administration studies. It offers three-year bachelor's programs that train students to become future public servants. Only two faculties (Police and General Public Administration) comprise the institution, offering six programs.

52. University of Applied Sciences for the Administration of Justice North Rhine-Westphalia

Having a really long name, the University of Applied Sciences for the Administration of Justice North Rhine-Westphalia was first established to train civil servants in the fields of justice and peace. Currently, this university trains prospective lawyers, attorneys, and judges to serve in the civil courts. In addition to all these positions, it also accepts applicants who want to serve in prisons since the prison guards & supervising positions are all tenure, which means you can have that job for a lifetime.

53. University of Cologne

The University of Cologne is recognized as one of the well-distinguished and research-focused institutions in Germany. It is one of the oldest schools founded in Central Europe, and it is also one of the biggest institutions in its country. The university has notable alumni that have received awards, such as the Noble Prize and Leibniz Prize.

54. University of Duisburg-Essen

The University of Duisberg-Essen was founded in 2003, though its history can be traced back to 1654. With more than 41,000 students and two main campuses in Duisberg and Essen, it is one of the largest public universities in Germany. The university currently has 12 faculties, offering more than 260 study programs in Social Sciences, Humanities, Business, Natural Sciences, and Engineering.

55. University of Europe for Applied Sciences

University of Europe for Applied Sciences offers exceptional and advanced English-taught programs in art and design, business studies, and technology and software. To accommodate all students from different backgrounds, the university has currently set up five campuses located in different cities in Germany. In addition, this private institution has a friendly and small environment. Students will experience a unique teaching approach as lectures are taught in small groups, guaranteeing positive outcomes of success in their overall student performance.

56. University of Finance North Rhine-Westphalia

The University of Finance North Rhine-Westphalia was established in 1958 as a state university of applied sciences in public administration. It was formerly known as the Finance Academy of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia, which later became a university of applied sciences. The university trains future tax administration professionals and offers dual study in partnership with the University of Applied Sciences for Finance Nordkirchen. It also allows its students to apply their professional skills at the tax offices within the state.

57. University of Fine Arts Münster

The University of Fine Arts Münster or Kunstakademie Münster in German is an academic institution for arts and teacher training in Germany. It was founded in 1971 as the Institute of Arts Educators for the Academy of Arts Düsseldorf, and eventually became an independent institution in 1987. At present, the university is home to around 360 students.  

58. University of Hagen

The University of Hagen was established in 1974 as a public university. Situated in Hagen, the University of Hagen focuses on distance teaching. The University of Hagen has several affiliations such as EUA, AQUIN, AQAS, and FIBAA, among others.

59. University of Münster

The University of Münster has a profound and rich history that can be traced back to the 16th century. The institution has had a fair share of ups and downs, but it has flourished to become one of the most renowned and well-respected universities in Germany and across the globe. Over the years, it has designed and developed countless cutting-edge programs to accommodate a diverse group of students. And at present, several of its unique programs are considered to be globally acknowledged and desired by a significant number of prospective students.

60. University of Philosophy and Theology in Münster

University of Philosophy and Theology in Münster offers a productive space for learners looking for further training in the spirituality field. It provides professional qualifications that will help you in your future endeavors. Since its establishment, the university has welcomed students from various universities worldwide and continues delivering quality theological teaching.

61. University of Siegen

The University of Siegen is a public institution and one of the top research institutions in Germany. The school was established in 1972, and it is located in North Rhine-Westphalia. It has around 130 program offerings for different areas of study, such as arts, humanities, and sciences.

62. University of the Savings Banks Finance Group

Being a privately-run university in Germany, the University of the Savings Banks Finance Group is a brand-new institution that was established in 2003. Setting academic standards based on international factors, the educational quality at this school is going through extensive renovation and various upgrades. Specifically targeting students who want to work in the financial sector, this university offers academic programs that are suitable for potential bankers and corporate businessmen.

63. University of Wuppertal

The University of Wuppertal was founded in 1972 and is a scientific institution. They have three campuses: Campus Grifflenberg which is the main campus, Campus Freudenberg, and Campus Haspel. The University of Wuppertal has different schools of discipline such as cultural studies, arts, design, humanities, engineering, etc.

64. Westphalian University of Applied Sciences

Located in the center of the former industrial complex, the Westphalian University of Applied Science is a highly modern institution that houses nearly 10,000 people. Featuring three different campuses filled with the latest technology, the Westphalian University showcases top-tier academic programs in the fields related to engineering, technology, natural sciences, and business. In addition to its high-quality teaching, the university also boasts outstanding research capabilities that continue to attract geniuses from all over the globe.

65. Witten/Herdecke University

Witten/Herdecke University was established in 1983 as a private university. Witten/Herdecke University is also part of an international research network. They have colleges/schools that offer courses such as business, health, humanities, and arts, etc.