Fachhochschule des Mittelstandes (FHM) is a state-recognised private university in Germany offering career-oriented Bachelor's and Master's programmes with flexible study options. It emphasizes practical application and strong ties to the German economy.
Fachhochschule des Mittelstandes (FHM) is a state-recognised private university of applied sciences in Germany, founded in 2000 in Bielefeld. With campuses in major German cities and a robust online platform, FHM delivers career-oriented Bachelor's and Master's programmes in business, health, sport, social work, and pedagogy. Its model combines rigorous academic content with strong practical orientation, serving both school-leavers and working professionals.
FHM's campuses maintain a tight-knit, collegial atmosphere. Students benefit from direct contact with professors, project-based learning, and regular industry guest lectures. Career services and alumni networks connect graduates with Mittelstand and corporate employers throughout Germany. Online students are supported through virtual events and digital student communities.
Instalment payment plans are available. Some employers sponsor FHM study costs for part-time students.
FHM is state-recognised (staatlich anerkannte Fachhochschule) under the laws of North Rhine-Westphalia and other federal states. Programmes are accredited by FIBAA and/or AQAS.
Non-EU/EEA students must obtain a national student visa (Type D) before arrival and then convert it to a student residence permit at the local Foreigners’ Authority (Ausländerbehörde). To prove financial self-sufficiency, most applicants open a blocked account (Sperrkonto) holding €11,904 — €992 per month for twelve months — an amount in effect since 2024 and unchanged for 2026. The blocked account caps monthly withdrawals at €992 so the funds last the year.
Non-EU international students may work up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per calendar year without approval from the Federal Employment Agency — an allowance raised from the previous 120/240-day limit under the 2024 skilled-immigration reform. A shift of more than four hours counts as a full day. Student-assistant roles at the university (Hiwi positions) generally fall outside this cap, and hours during semester breaks count toward the same annual allowance.
After completing a degree at a German university, non-EU graduates are entitled to an 18-month residence permit to seek work under the Residence Act, during which any employment is allowed. Separately, the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte), introduced in June 2024, lets qualifying non-EU nationals enter to look for work for up to a year using a points system, with limited part-time work permitted. Recent German graduates qualify for the 18-month post-study permit directly, without the points test.
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
Fachhochschule des Mittelstandes (FHM) offers a variety of study programs designed to prepare you for your future career. Whether you are looking to pursue a Bachelor's, Master's, or even a Doctorate, FHM provides options that cater to different interests and career goals. The university offers flexible study models, including part-time and full-time options, as well as distance learning. This allows you to balance your studies with work, family, or other commitments. FHM focuses on providing practical, career-oriented education across diverse fields like business, health, psychology, technology, and media.
The Bachelor of Science program in Physiotherapy provides a scientifically-grounded and practical education for a career in physiotherapy. You will develop expertise in the human musculoskeletal system and learn to treat patients whose mobility is affected by age, illness, or accidents. The program aims to equip you with extensive physiotherapeutic, biomedical, and biomechanical knowledge and skills. It also incorporates psychosocial fundamentals to address the interconnectedness of body and mind.
full fundingOpen to applicants who hold or expect a Master's degree in Computer Science or a related field, with strong coding skills, an interest in large-scale software projects and the ability to write and present in English (no German required). Candidates should be passionate about high-quality academic research, willing to mentor undergraduate students, and have a long-term vision and persistence for deep research. Positions are filled on a rolling basis as suitable candidates are identified.
full fundingOpen to international students of all nationalities with a strong academic background in computer science, data science, or a related field, or a degree in a domain science (such as life sciences, medicine, health, earth observation, or robotics) or interdisciplinary fields (such as geoinformatics or bioinformatics) with a strong data science emphasis. Applicants need a passion for applying state-of-the-art data science techniques to real-world scientific challenges. Selection is based on academic record, research potential, and motivation.
full fundingOpen to applicants who hold a Master's degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering or a related field, with strong knowledge of metallurgy, slip/twinning mechanisms and the mechanical behaviour of metals. Experience with magnesium (Mg) alloys, micro-compression or SEM techniques is an advantage. Candidates need strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary, international environment. The post is a salaried PhD position open to international applicants.
Open to applicants of all nationalities who hold a Master's degree in soil science, geosciences, environmental sciences or a closely related field, are proficient in written and spoken English, and are physically fit for extended fieldwork in tropical regions (Ghana and India). Experience with soil analysis, spectral tools and drone operations is an advantage but not mandatory.
full fundingOpen to international applicants who hold a master's degree in Chemical, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or a related field with strong academic performance, with experience in electrochemical modelling and simulation, knowledge of PEM and AEM electrolyser technology, skills in automation and data analysis (Python, LabVIEW), and proficiency in German and English.
full fundingFor researchers from abroad — postdoctoral (normally within 4 years of a PhD) or experienced (within 12 years of a PhD) — to carry out a long-term research stay in Germany with a host of their choice. Selection is on academic record and research potential; applications can be submitted at any time.
International students at FHM can expect tuition fees of approximately €450–€800 per month, totaling €5,400–€9,600 per year, depending on the specific programme and study model. Instalment payment plans are available.
Living costs in German cities, including rent, food, and transport, generally average between €800–€1,100 per month. This is in addition to tuition fees.
For admission, you typically need a Hochschulzugangsberechtigung, which is the German Abitur, Fachhochschulreife, or an internationally recognised equivalent. For German-taught programmes, proof of German language proficiency (DSH-2 or TestDaF 4) is required, while English-taught programmes need a B2 level of English.
Yes, FHM offers scholarships such as the Deutschlandstipendium, which provides €300 per month based on merit and need, and the FHM Leistungsstipendium, offering partial tuition reductions for high-achieving students.
FHM provides personalized academic support through small learning groups and individual mentoring. Career services and alumni networks assist graduates in connecting with employers, while online students receive support through virtual events and digital communities.