University of Greifswald
Greifswald, Germany
University of Greifswald
Greifswald, Germany
Founded
1456
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
~10,000
Faculties
5
Discover the University of Greifswald: One of Europe's Oldest Universities
Discover the University of Greifswald: One of Europe's Oldest Universities
The University of Greifswald, officially Universitat Greifswald, is a public research university located in the historic Hanseatic city of Greifswald in the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Germany. Founded in 1456, it is one of the oldest universities in Europe and the fourth oldest in present-day Germany, after Heidelberg, Leipzig, and Rostock.
The university draws its research strength from intensive interdisciplinary collaboration across its five faculties, including University Medicine. Key research areas include life sciences, plasma physics, geosciences, cultural interaction in the Baltic and Nordic region, and law and economics. The university maintains international exchange relationships with more than 200 universities worldwide and hosts students and scholars from over 100 countries.
With approximately 10,000 students, the University of Greifswald offers an intimate academic environment with small class sizes and close student-faculty interaction. The university provides 131 possible degree courses across its five faculties, several of which are interdisciplinary, along with continuing education programs. Its location near the Baltic Sea also provides unique opportunities for marine and environmental research.
Key Milestones
- 1456: Founded on 17 October as Academia Gryphica with papal approval from Pope Calixtus III, with Heinrich Rubenow as its first rector.
- 1648: Became the oldest Swedish university following the Peace of Westphalia, when the region came under Swedish rule.
- 1946: Reopened on 15 February after World War II, resuming teaching activities and beginning post-war reconstruction.
- 2015: Received system accreditation for quality assurance in teaching, confirming its commitment to academic excellence.
Academic Structure and Faculties
Academic Structure and Faculties
The University of Greifswald is organized into five faculties that offer a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. The university promotes interdisciplinary studies and research-led teaching, with many programs benefiting from collaborations with renowned external research institutions in the region.
Faculty of Law and Economics
The only faculty in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania authorized to teach law since a 2013 education reform. It offers programs in law, business administration, and management with strong practical orientation.
- Law (State Examination)
- Business Administration (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
- Health Care Management (M.Sc.)
Faculty of Medicine (University Medicine)
One of the highest-ranked medical faculties in Germany, offering programs in human medicine and dentistry. It is closely linked to the University Hospital and conducts leading research in community medicine and individualized medicine.
- Human Medicine (State Examination)
- Dentistry (State Examination)
- Community Medicine Research Programs
Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences
Offers a wide range of programs in the natural sciences, with strong research ties to the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics and the Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology. Home to the renowned plasma physics research hub.
- Physics (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
- Biochemistry (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
- Pharmacy (State Examination)
Faculty of Arts and Humanities
Covers a diverse range of humanities and social science disciplines, with particular strength in Baltic and Scandinavian cultural studies. Programs emphasize cross-cultural understanding and interdisciplinary approaches.
- History (B.A./M.A.)
- Scandinavian Studies (B.A./M.A.)
- Psychology (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
Faculty of Theology
One of the original four founding faculties dating back to 1456, offering programs in Protestant theology and related disciplines. It maintains a strong tradition of theological scholarship within the Lutheran tradition.
- Protestant Theology (Magister Theologiae)
- Ecclesiastical Examination
- Sacred Music (Diploma)
Interdisciplinary Research Centers
The university hosts several cross-faculty research centers and collaborates with external institutions including the Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, the Helmholtz Institute for One Health, and the Alfried Krupp Kolleg fellowship program.
- Landscape Ecology and Nature Conservation (M.Sc.)
- Infection Biology and Immunology (M.Sc.)
- Sustainability Science (M.Sc.)
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Educational QualificationSchool-leaving certificate equivalent to the German Abitur, or completion of a Studienkolleg preparatory program
- German Language ProficiencyDSH-2, TestDaF Level 4, or equivalent (for German-taught programs)
- English ProficiencyIELTS, TOEFL, or TOEIC (for English-taught programs; B1 CEFR minimum for some subjects)
- Application Portaluni-assist portal for international applicants
- Additional RequirementsTestAS required for non-EU applicants to Medicine and Dentistry (core test percentile rank of at least 50)
Graduate Admission
- Educational QualificationRecognized bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant field
- German Language ProficiencyDSH-2, TestDaF Level 4, or equivalent (for German-taught programs)
- English ProficiencyIELTS, TOEFL, or TOEIC (required for English-taught master's programs)
- Application Portaluni-assist portal for international applicants
- Supporting DocumentsAcademic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, and certified translations in English or German
Application deadline for international students applying to programs starting in October via the uni-assist portal.
Application deadline for international students applying to programs starting in April via the uni-assist portal.
The winter semester begins in October. Orientation programs for new international students are held in the weeks before classes start.
The summer semester begins in April. Not all programs admit students for the summer intake; check specific program availability.
Tuition Fees, Semester Costs & Scholarships
Tuition Fees, Semester Costs & Scholarships
As a public university in Germany, the University of Greifswald does not charge tuition fees for most programs, including for international students. Students are required to pay a modest semester contribution fee that covers student services, the student body, and re-registration costs.
| Cost Category | Per Semester (EU/EEA) | Per Semester (International) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | EUR 0 | EUR 0 |
| Semester Contribution Fee | ~EUR 109 | ~EUR 109 |
| Health Insurance (approx.) | ~EUR 630 | ~EUR 630 |
| Living Expenses (approx.) | ~EUR 5,520 | ~EUR 5,520 |
| Total | ~EUR 6,259 per semester | ~EUR 6,259 per semester |
DAAD Scholarships for International Students
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a range of scholarships for international students at all academic levels to study at German universities, including the University of Greifswald.
- Coverage: Monthly stipend, travel allowance, health insurance
- Eligibility: International students with strong academic records
- Application: Apply through the DAAD portal; deadlines vary by program
DAAD Prize for Outstanding International Students
The University of Greifswald awards the DAAD Prize annually to exceptional international students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and social engagement.
- Award Amount: Contact the university for current prize value
- Eligibility: Currently enrolled international students
- Selection Criteria: Academic excellence and community involvement
Campus & Facilities at the University of Greifswald
Campus & Facilities at the University of Greifswald
The University of Greifswald features a unique blend of historic and modern campus facilities spread across the charming Hanseatic old town and the newer Beitzplatz Science Campus. Over EUR 417 million has been invested since German reunification to renovate historic buildings and construct modern research and teaching facilities.
The medieval city center houses beautifully restored red-brick academic buildings including the faculties of Law and Economics, Arts and Humanities, and Theology.
The modern science campus east of the city center houses state-of-the-art facilities for natural sciences, mathematics, medicine, pharmacy, and dentistry.
The Greifswald University Library holds over 2.5 million printed books and extensive digital resources, with multiple locations open daily until 10pm offering over 1,000 workspaces.
Housing & Student Services
Student Housing
The Studierendenwerk (Student Services) offers affordable dormitory rooms and shared apartments for students. Greifswald's compact size means all university facilities are easily accessible by bicycle.
- Affordable dormitory rooms through Studierendenwerk
- Private housing options in the city center and surrounding areas
- All campus locations accessible by bike within minutes
Sports & Recreation
The university offers approximately 300 sports courses per semester, ranging from team sports to yoga and water sports. Its Baltic Sea location provides unique opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and beach activities.
- Own sports fields, halls, and fitness gym on campus
- Water sports on the Baltic Sea and Greifswald Bay
- Over 300 sports courses offered each semester
Student Life at the University of Greifswald
Student Life at the University of Greifswald
Student life in Greifswald is shaped by the city's intimate size, vibrant cultural scene, and strong sense of community. With roughly one in four residents being a student, the city pulses with youthful energy, offering a rich array of clubs, cultural events, and traditions.
Greifswald: A Historic Hanseatic City on the Baltic Sea
Greifswald: A Historic Hanseatic City on the Baltic Sea
Life in Greifswald
Greifswald is a charming university town of approximately 59,000 residents located on the Baltic Sea coast between the islands of Rugen and Usedom in northeastern Germany. Approximately 230 km north of Berlin, the city is known for its well-preserved medieval Brick Gothic architecture, museum harbor, and as the birthplace of Romantic painter Caspar David Friedrich. Its compact size makes it easily walkable and bicycle-friendly, while offering a high quality of life at an affordable cost.
Baltic Sea Proximity
Located directly on the Baltic coast with access to beaches, the Greifswald Bay, and the nearby islands of Rugen and Usedom for water sports, hiking, and nature exploration.
Hanseatic Heritage
A proud member of the historic Hanseatic League, Greifswald features a beautifully preserved old town with Gothic churches, a medieval market square, and a picturesque museum harbor.
Cultural Attractions
Home to the Pomeranian State Museum, the Caspar David Friedrich Center, and a year-round calendar of festivals including the Greifswald Bach Week and Fishermen's Jousting Tournament.
Affordable Living
Greifswald offers a low cost of living compared to larger German cities, with estimated monthly expenses of approximately EUR 920 including housing, food, transport, and leisure.
Career Outcomes & Notable Alumni
Career Outcomes & Notable Alumni
Notable Research Partners & Employers
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The International Office advises prospective and current international students on admissions, visa matters, accommodation, cultural integration, and study-related issues. They also coordinate exchange programs and partnerships.
The Department of Teaching German as a Foreign Language offers intensive courses and technical language courses. The university also provides preparatory German courses (DSH) and a language tandem database to pair students with native speakers.
The university maintains a dedicated International Career Service office and the NOVA job portal featuring listings for jobs and internships. Graduates can apply for an 18-month post-study work visa to seek employment in Germany.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Greifswald: Worldwide Rankings
University of Greifswald: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Greifswald is consistently recognized in major international university rankings, reflecting its research output and academic reputation. It is particularly well-regarded for its programs in medicine, pharmacy, life sciences, and environmental studies.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences | THE Subject Rankings | #101 |
| Medicine | EduRank | #37 in Germany |
| Interdisciplinary Science | Times Higher Education | #201 |
| Biology | EduRank | #49 in Germany |
Features
The University of Greifswald, founded in 1456, is among Germany's oldest universities. With approximately 10,298 students and a favorable student-to-professor ratio, it offers a personalized academic environment. The university comprises five faculties: Theology, Law and Economics, Medicine, Arts and Humanities, and Mathematics and Natural Sciences. It emphasizes interdisciplinary research in areas like community medicine, environmental change, and Baltic Sea region cultures. International partnerships with over 200 universities enhance its global engagement. The campus blends historic architecture with modern facilities, providing a rich cultural and academic experience.\n
Accommodation
Yes, the University of Greifswald offers accommodation services to its students, including international students.
Work While Studying
Yes, international students at the University of Greifswald are permitted to work while studying, subject to German regulations.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Yes, the University of Greifswald offers comprehensive internship services to support students in gaining practical experience during their studies.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
December - January
Location
Domstraße 11, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
