Why choose the University of Cologne?

The University of Cologne offers a great variety of degree programmes in nearly all academic disciplines. From established degree programmes preparing students for specific professions, to rare subjects and unique interdisciplinary programmes available only in Cologne, a wide variety of academic interests are supported. Depending on the programme, there are individual combinations and elective options possible.

Our degree programmes are research-oriented and characterized by their high level of quality. The system accreditation, and comprehensive quality management, awards, and top rankings are indicators of our excellence in studying, teaching and research.

At the University of Cologne, education is based on excellent research. You will acquire skills to shape and contribute to the society of the future – creating impact through transfer . For us, studying and teaching are the starting point for innovation, sustainable development, and meaningful engagement. Our approach to education is based on the Teaching & Learning Mission Statement.

We are committed to diversity, varied perspectives, and equal opportunities. We foster a culture in which the individual, social, and cultural diversity of our students and staff is valued as a strength and a marker of quality.

With five Clusters of Excellence, our university is one of the top universities in the Excellence Strategy of the German federal and state governments. Our success in securing research funding and conducting top-level research also benefits our teaching. Some of our degree programmes are directly rooted in this cutting-edge research.

Thanks to strong connections with alumni, regional companies, the local community, political actors, and supporters, students can start building networks with fellow students, graduates, potential employers and sponsors while still studying.

The University of Cologne is located in the heart of a vibrant city known for its open spirit and tolerance. But Cologne is more than just carnival – friendly people, diverse and authentic neighbourhoods (“Veedel”), and creative, thriving scenes make this metropolis a place where it’s easy to feel at home. Studying in Cologne, a European centre for science and business, offers the perfect opportunity to start your personal development.

In addition to its regional and national networks, the University of Cologne offers a wide range of opportunities for studying or working abroad, including spending a semester in another country, completing an internship, or writing a thesis. As a member of the European University Alliance EUniWell (European University for Well-Being), the University of Cologne also offers its members short-term programmes such as summer schools on well-being and sustainability.

Sustainability is a core part of our Teaching & Learning Mission Statement and is guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Students can get actively involved via the Green Office Cologne and other programmes. A student-led pilot project, the sustainability map offers an overview of relevant locations, measures, and initiatives.

As one of Europe’s largest universities, the University of Cologne offers a broad range of services and contact points relating to studying and teaching. These include programmes for pupils, orientation events, academic and study advice, advice & support for students and scientific career development. In addition to the central contact points and facilities such as the Center for Teacher Education (ZfL), the IT Center University of Cologne (ITCC), or the University and City Library (USB), each Faculty offers its own subject-specific support services.

We encourage students to broaden their horizons by taking advantage of our extensive extracurricular learning opportunities, such as those offered by the ProfessionalCenter. For faculty, we provide comprehensive guidelines and materials to help them design innovative teaching formats and further develop skills in digital and AI-supported education.