University of Lüneburg (Leuphana University)
Lüneburg, Germany
Leuphana University of Lüneburg
Lüneburg, Germany
Founded
1946
Institution Type
Public (Foundation under Public Law)
Total Students
~10,000
International Students
~12%
Discover Leuphana University of Lüneburg
Discover Leuphana University of Lüneburg
Leuphana University of Lüneburg is a public university in Lower Saxony, Germany, known for its innovative interdisciplinary approach to education and strong commitment to sustainability. The university emerged from a special mandate of the Lower Saxony state parliament to create a model university for the Bologna Process, and it operates as a foundation under public law with extended autonomy.
Leuphana has developed a unique study model with three schools for teaching and learning: the College for undergraduate studies, the Graduate School for master's and doctoral programs, and the Professional School for continuing education and lifelong learning. Its five research schools focus on education, culture and society, management and technology, sustainability, and public affairs.
The university's mission is built on three core concepts: humanism, sustainability, and application orientation. Leuphana has been climate neutral since 2014, holds Fairtrade University status since 2016, and has received multiple awards from the Stifterverband für die Deutsche Wissenschaft and other prestigious organizations for its forward-thinking approach to higher education.
Key Milestones
- 1946: Founded as a College of Education (Pädagogische Hochschule) in Lüneburg on the initiative of the British occupation authorities.
- 1989: Officially granted full university status by the Lower Saxony state parliament, expanding beyond teacher education into economics, social sciences, and cultural studies.
- 2003: Converted into a foundation under public law, becoming one of the first five universities in Germany to gain extended institutional autonomy.
- 2007: Renamed to Leuphana University of Lüneburg and launched its award-winning study model with College, Graduate School, and Professional School.
Academic Structure & Programs
Academic Structure & Programs
Leuphana organizes its academic offerings through a distinctive model that integrates undergraduate, graduate, and professional education. The university's four faculties and multiple interdisciplinary research centers cover a broad range of disciplines from sustainability science to digital media and entrepreneurship.
Faculty of Education
Focuses on teacher education and improving educational opportunities for people of all ages and life situations. Research and teaching address pedagogical innovation and educational equity.
- Education (B.A. / M.Ed.)
- Teaching Degree Programs
- Digital Education
Faculty of Culture
Explores the role of culture in society through interdisciplinary programs spanning arts, media, philosophy, and cultural studies. Emphasizes critical thinking and creative approaches to societal challenges.
- Cultural Studies (B.A.)
- Digital Media (B.A.) — with City University of Hong Kong
- Sound Studies
Faculty of Business and Economics
Investigates the economic and legal conditions of entrepreneurial thinking and action. Programs combine management, economics, law, and technology with a strong entrepreneurship focus.
- International Business Administration & Entrepreneurship (B.Sc.)
- Management & Data Science (M.Sc.)
- MBA Sustainability Management
Faculty of Sustainability
A pioneer in sustainability science, this faculty addresses ecological, economic, and social sustainability through research and education. Leuphana is internationally recognized for its contributions to sustainability studies.
- Environmental and Sustainability Studies (B.Sc.)
- Global Sustainability Science (M.Sc.) — with Arizona State University
- Sustainability Science (M.Sc.)
Graduate School
Offers interdisciplinary master's programs across six thematic fields — Culture, Education, Governance and Law, Management, Psychology, and Sustainability — with direct pathways to doctoral studies.
- International Economic Law (LL.M.)
- Work and Organizational Psychology (M.Sc.)
- Governance and Human Rights (M.A.)
Professional School
Provides continuing education for working professionals through part-time master's degrees, MBA programs, and certificate courses, supporting lifelong learning and career advancement.
- MBA Sustainability Management (Part-time)
- MBA Performance Management
- Certificate Programs in Digital Transformation
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- QualificationGerman Abitur or recognized international equivalent (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung)
- Application PortalVia uni-assist for non-EU/EEA applicants; direct application for IB, European Baccalaureate holders
- German ProficiencyTestDaF 16 points (min. 4 per section) or DSH-2 for German-taught programs
- English ProficiencyIELTS 5.5+ or TOEFL iBT 85+ for English-taught programs
- Application FeeEUR 75 for international applicants
Graduate Admission
- QualificationRelevant bachelor's degree (minimum 180 ECTS)
- English ProficiencyTOEFL iBT 85+, IELTS 5.5+, or TOEIC 785+ for English programs
- German ProficiencyRequired for German-language master's programs; proof can be submitted by March 31
- Additional MaterialsMotivation letter, CV, and program-specific requirements vary by course
- Application PortalOnline application through the university's official portal
Application deadline for most bachelor's programs starting in October. Non-EU applicants should apply via uni-assist well in advance.
Standard deadline for most master's programs at the Graduate School for the winter semester intake.
Some programs accept applications for the summer semester. Check individual program pages for availability.
Annual deadline for several scholarship programs including the Heinrich Böll Scholarship for international master's and PhD students.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
As a public university in Lower Saxony, Leuphana does not charge tuition fees for most degree programs for either domestic or international students. All students pay a modest semester contribution that covers administrative costs, the student union, and a public transportation ticket (Deutschlandticket).
| Fee Category | EU/EEA Students | Non-EU/EEA Students |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (per semester) | EUR 0 | EUR 0 |
| Semester Contribution | ~EUR 453 | ~EUR 453 |
| Living Expenses (est. monthly) | EUR 800 - 1,000 | EUR 800 - 1,000 |
| Health Insurance (est. monthly) | ~EUR 110 | ~EUR 110 |
| Total | ~EUR 453 per semester + living costs | ~EUR 453 per semester + living costs |
Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
A national merit-based scholarship supporting high-performing students with monthly financial support, funded jointly by the federal government and private sponsors.
- Amount: EUR 300 per month
- Duration: 2 semesters (renewable)
- Eligibility: Outstanding academic performance and social engagement
DAAD Scholarships
The German Academic Exchange Service offers a range of scholarships for international students, researchers, and academics studying at German universities including Leuphana.
- Amount: Varies by program (EUR 861 - 1,200+ per month)
- Coverage: Living expenses, travel allowance, health insurance
- Eligibility: International students; criteria vary by specific DAAD program
Campus & Facilities
Campus & Facilities
Leuphana's compact campus is located in the heart of Lüneburg, built on the grounds of a former military barracks (Scharnhorst-Kaserne) that was converted in the 1990s. The campus blends renovated historic buildings with striking modern architecture, most notably the Central Building designed by internationally renowned architect Daniel Libeskind.
The iconic Central Building features a 1,100-seat auditorium and serves as a hub for teaching, research, student activities, and cultural exchange.
The campus features inviting green spaces and courtyards ideal for studying, socializing, and outdoor activities between classes.
The university library provides extensive print and digital collections, quiet study areas, and collaborative workspaces for students and researchers.
Housing & Dining
Student Housing
The Studierendenwerk manages several student dormitories near the main campus and city center, offering affordable shared and single apartments.
- Seven student dormitories near campus
- Shared flats (WG) and single apartments available
- International housing assistance office
Dining & Services
The campus Mensa (dining hall) operated by the Studierendenwerk offers affordable daily meals with vegetarian, vegan, and international options.
- Campus Mensa with diverse meal options
- Cafeterias and coffee bars on campus
- Gym, beach volleyball court, and sports facilities
Student Life at Leuphana
Student Life at Leuphana
Student life at Leuphana is intimate, engaging, and community-oriented. With a compact campus and a close-knit student body, you will quickly become part of a vibrant community that values collaboration, creativity, and social engagement.
Lüneburg — A Charming Medieval City
Lüneburg — A Charming Medieval City
Life in Lüneburg
Lüneburg is a picturesque medieval city of approximately 70,000 inhabitants in Lower Saxony, northern Germany. Known for its well-preserved Gothic brick architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and vibrant student culture, the city offers an ideal blend of historical character and modern amenities. Located just 30 minutes south of Hamburg by train, students enjoy easy access to a major European metropolis while living in a relaxed, bike-friendly university town.
Proximity to Hamburg
Only 50 km from Hamburg, Germany's second-largest city, giving students easy access to world-class cultural events, an international airport, and diverse career opportunities.
Historic Old Town
One of the few northern German towns not destroyed in World War II, Lüneburg features a stunning 13th-century town hall, Gothic churches, and the historic harbor with its old crane.
Lüneburg Heath Nature Reserve
The surrounding Lüneburg Heath offers spectacular natural landscapes for hiking, cycling, and outdoor recreation, with the Ilmenau River providing opportunities for canoeing and paddle boarding.
Student-Friendly Atmosphere
With a high student-to-resident ratio, Lüneburg offers affordable living, cozy cafés, lively bars, cultural centers, and a welcoming community that makes it easy to feel at home.
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Notable Partners & Employers
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
The Leuphana International Centre supports international students with visa guidance, enrollment procedures, orientation programs, and integration into campus life.
German language courses and cultural integration activities are available to help international students adapt. English-taught programs are offered at both bachelor's and master's levels.
Leuphana's Career Service offers résumé workshops, interview coaching, an annual Career Fair, Recruiting Dinners, and dedicated support for international students entering the German job market.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Worldwide University Rankings
Worldwide University Rankings
Leuphana University of Lüneburg has steadily improved its international standing and is recognized for its research strengths in sustainability science, business, and social sciences. The university ranks among the top 25% of nearly 2,200 research-intensive universities worldwide considered by major ranking bodies.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Sustainability Science | International recognition | Among global leaders |
| Business & Economics | EduRank | #46 in Germany |
| Economics | EduRank | #37 in Germany |
| Environmental Science | EduRank | #58 in Germany |
Features
Against this background, Leuphana understands the basic idea in the long tradition of humanism to be that man has the freedom to form his own character. This freedom to self-determination takes the university members of Leuphana into responsibility and requires a constant willingness to learn.\n\nIn order to promote this responsibility as well as self-determined learning processes in their studies, one third of the studies at the College and one quarter of the studies at the Graduate School consist of a special core curriculum: the Leuphana semester (at the College) and the complementary studies. In addition, Leuphana's doctoral programs are also specifically designed to stimulate reflection on academic self-understanding.\nIn research, digitality, cultures of criticism, democracy research, entrepreneurship, sustainability and diversity are important focal points on the fundamental question of freedom and responsibility.
Accommodation
Accommodation service is not available.\n
Work While Studying
Students can work while studying.\n
Co-op/Internship Participation
There is an internship service.\n
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
May - July
Location
Universitätsallee 1 21335 Lüneburg\n
Map not found.
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