University of Oldenburg
Oldenburg, Germany
Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg
Oldenburg, Germany
Founded
1973
Institution Type
Public University
Total Students
16,000+
Study Programs
170+
Discover the University of Oldenburg: History & Mission
Discover the University of Oldenburg: History & Mission
The Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg is a public research university founded in 1973, making it one of Germany's youngest universities. Named after Nobel Peace Prize laureate Carl von Ossietzky, the university is committed to conducting research in a socially responsible manner in the service of peace and democracy.
Located in the city of Oldenburg in Lower Saxony, the university has grown into a prominent institution with approximately 16,000 students and over 170 study programs. It is particularly renowned for its interdisciplinary research strengths in renewable energy, environmental sciences, hearing research, and marine science.
The university cooperates closely with more than 200 universities worldwide and maintains a strong cross-border partnership with the University of Groningen in the Netherlands, dating back to 1980. Its motto, 'Open to new paths,' is reflected in its pioneering approach to sustainability, interdisciplinary teaching, and support for entrepreneurial start-ups.
Key Milestones
- 1793: First teacher training seminary established in Oldenburg by Duke Peter Friedrich Ludwig.
- 1973: University of Oldenburg officially founded by resolution of the Lower Saxony State Parliament.
- 1991: University officially named after Nobel Peace Prize laureate Carl von Ossietzky.
- 2012: Establishment of the School of Medicine and Health Sciences and inauguration of the European Medical School Oldenburg-Groningen.
Academic Structure & Schools
Academic Structure & Schools
The University of Oldenburg is organized into six schools (Fakultäten), each encompassing multiple departments and institutes. This structure supports the university's commitment to interdisciplinary research and teaching across a broad range of disciplines, from humanities and social sciences to natural sciences and medicine.
School I: Education and Social Sciences
Focuses on educational sciences, pedagogy, and social sciences with a strong tradition in teacher training programs that have been central to the university since its founding.
- Education Sciences
- Special Needs Education
- Social Sciences
School II: Computing Science, Business Administration, Economics, and Law
Combines computing science with business administration, economics, and law, fostering interdisciplinary approaches to modern challenges in technology, business, and governance.
- Computing Science
- Business Administration and Economics
- Comparative and European Law (Hanse Law School)
School III: Linguistics and Cultural Studies
Houses institutes for English, German, Dutch, and Slavic studies alongside music, art, and visual culture, offering a rich humanities curriculum with international perspectives.
- English Studies
- German Studies
- Art and Visual Culture
School IV: Humanities and Social Sciences
Covers philosophy, history, theology, and sport science, providing students with a broad foundation in the humanities and critical social inquiry.
- Philosophy
- History
- Sport Science
School V: Mathematics and Science
Encompasses biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics, and the Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Sea (ICBM), with a strong research focus on renewable energy and marine sciences.
- Sustainable Renewable Energy Technologies
- Marine Environmental Sciences
- Physics
School VI: Medicine and Health Sciences
The youngest school, established in 2012 as part of the European Medical School Oldenburg-Groningen, offering programs in human medicine, neuroscience, psychology, and health services research.
- Human Medicine (Staatsexamen)
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Educational QualificationSecondary school certificate equivalent to German Abitur or Fachhochschulreife
- German LanguageDSH-2 or TestDaF 4x4 (most programs taught in German)
- Application PortalVia uni-assist or the university's online portal
- Documents RequiredCertified transcripts, language certificates, CV, and motivation letter
- Preparatory CourseStudienkolleg available for applicants without direct university entrance qualification
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeRelevant bachelor's degree from a recognized university
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 80+ (for English-taught programs)
- German ProficiencyDSH-2 or TestDaF 4x4 (for German-taught programs)
- Supporting DocumentsAcademic transcripts, CV, motivation letter, and letters of recommendation
- Program-SpecificSome programs require a research proposal or subject-specific prerequisites
Application deadline for most programs starting in the winter semester (October).
Application deadline for programs with summer semester intake (April), where available.
Some English-taught master's programs have earlier deadlines. Check the specific program page.
Doctoral positions are typically advertised individually. Contact potential supervisors directly.
Tuition Fees, Semester Contributions & Scholarships
Tuition Fees, Semester Contributions & Scholarships
As a state-financed public university, the University of Oldenburg does not charge tuition fees for most degree programs, including for international students. However, all students are required to pay a semester contribution that covers student services, public transport, and administration.
| Fee Component | EU Students (per semester) | Non-EU Students (per semester) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (standard programs) | EUR 0 | EUR 0 |
| Semester Contribution | EUR 415.80 | EUR 415.80 |
| Health Insurance (approx.) | EUR 140/month | EUR 140/month |
| Living Expenses (approx.) | EUR 1,000/month | EUR 1,000/month |
| Total | EUR 415.80 per semester + living costs | EUR 415.80 per semester + living costs |
DAAD Scholarships
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers various scholarships for international students pursuing studies in Germany, including at the University of Oldenburg.
- Coverage: Monthly stipend, health insurance, travel allowance
- Eligibility: International students with strong academic records
- Application: Apply through the DAAD portal; deadlines vary by program
Deutschlandstipendium
A national scholarship program co-funded by the German government and private sponsors, awarded to high-achieving students regardless of nationality.
- Amount: EUR 300 per month for at least two semesters
- Eligibility: Outstanding academic performance and social engagement
- Application: Apply directly through the University of Oldenburg
Campus & Facilities at the University of Oldenburg
Campus & Facilities at the University of Oldenburg
The University of Oldenburg operates two main campuses — Haarentor and Wechloy — connected by a protected landscape corridor ideal for cycling. Both campuses feature modern architecture, green spaces, and well-equipped facilities supporting research and student life.
The main campus near the city center houses humanities, social sciences, economics, law, and the central library and administration.
Located in northern Oldenburg, this campus is home to natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, and medicine.
The Library and Information System (BIS) provides extensive print and digital resources across both campuses.
Housing & Dining
Student Housing
The Studierendenwerk Oldenburg manages several student dormitories near both campuses, offering affordable accommodation for students.
- Student dormitories with single and shared rooms
- Private rental apartments and shared flats (WGs)
- Housing assistance from the International Office
Dining Options
The Studierendenwerk operates canteens (Mensa) on both campuses, offering affordable and diverse meal options including vegetarian and vegan choices.
- Award-winning Mensa at Haarentor Campus
- Cafeteria and canteen at Wechloy Campus
- Additional cafés and snack bars on both campuses
Student Life at the University of Oldenburg
Student Life at the University of Oldenburg
Student life at the University of Oldenburg is vibrant and community-oriented. The university's compact campus layout fosters close interaction between students and faculty, while numerous clubs, cultural events, and sports activities create a well-rounded experience.
Oldenburg, Germany: A Student-Friendly City
Oldenburg, Germany: A Student-Friendly City
Life in Oldenburg
Oldenburg is a mid-sized city in northwestern Germany with a population of around 170,000. Known as a cycling city with an excellent quality of life, Oldenburg offers affordable living costs, a rich cultural scene, and close proximity to the North Sea coast, making it an ideal setting for students.
Cycling Capital
Oldenburg is one of Germany's top cycling cities, with extensive bike paths making it easy and convenient to get around without a car.
Cultural Scene
The city features the Oldenburg State Theater, numerous museums, galleries, and annual cultural festivals, including the Oldenburg International Film Festival.
Green Spaces & Nature
Surrounded by parks, gardens, and the protected Eversten Holz forest, Oldenburg offers plenty of outdoor recreation. The North Sea coast is just a short trip away.
Affordable Living
Compared to larger German cities, Oldenburg offers significantly lower rent and living costs, with students typically spending around EUR 1,000 per month for all expenses.
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Notable Employers & Partners
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The International Office supports international students from application through graduation, offering orientation sessions, visa assistance, and integration programs. Contact: welcome@uol.de
The university offers German language courses at various levels throughout the academic year, helping international students improve their language skills for academic and daily life.
International students are paired with domestic students through the buddy program, providing cultural and academic integration support during the first semesters.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Oldenburg: Worldwide Rankings
University of Oldenburg: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Oldenburg is consistently featured among the top 1,000 universities globally and ranks within the top 50-60 universities in Germany. It is particularly well-regarded for its research in environmental sciences, physics, hearing research, and renewable energy.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science | EduRank | #662 Worldwide |
| Physics | EduRank | #681 Worldwide |
| Oceanography | US News | #76 Worldwide |
| Engineering | EduRank | #741 Worldwide |
Features
Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg is recognized for its interdisciplinary approach to education and research. Key highlights include:\n\nSustainability and Environmental Research: The university has a long-standing commitment to environmental protection and sustainability, with research centers like the Helmholtz Institute for Functional Marine Biodiversity and the ForWind Center for Wind Energy Research \n\nInterdisciplinary Programs: Offers a broad range of disciplines, including language studies, cultural studies, humanities, educational sciences, economics, natural sciences, and health sciences \n\nInternational Collaboration: Maintains partnerships with over 200 universities worldwide and participates in the Erasmus+ program \n\nStudent Support Services: Provides comprehensive support through the Studierendenwerk, including counseling, childcare services, and cultural programs \n
Accommodation
Yes, the University of Oldenburg offers accommodation services for students through the Studierendenwerk Oldenburg.
Work While Studying
Yes students can work up to 20 hours per week.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Yes, the University of Oldenburg offers comprehensive internship services to support students in gaining practical experience and enhancing their employability.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
December - January
May - July
Location
Ammerländer Heerstraße 114-118, 26129 Oldenburg, Germany
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