GERMANY · DORTMUND
Fachhochschule Dortmund
public · Founded 1971 · Languages: de, en
In short
Fachhochschule Dortmund is a practice-oriented public university in Germany offering affordable education with nominal semester fees and strong industry connections. It provides a welcoming environment for international students with comprehensive support services.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1971
- Students
- 13,559
- International students
- 2,200
- Languages
- DE, EN
- Location
- Dortmund, Germany
Fachhochschule Dortmund (Dortmund University of Applied Sciences and Arts) is a practice-oriented public institution in Dortmund, Germany, founded in 1971. With roughly 13,500 students, it offers bachelor's and master's programmes in engineering, computer science, business, social work, and design across three city campuses. Germany's universities of applied sciences charge only nominal semester fees — around EUR 300–500 — making FH Dortmund a highly affordable option for international students. Its location in the Ruhr area places graduates at the heart of Germany's largest industrial and tech cluster.
Why study here
- Near-zero tuition: semester fees of only EUR 300–500 for all students, including internationals.
- Strong industry connections in the Ruhr area — Germany's largest economic region — aid internships and graduate employment.
- Dedicated International Office with a Buddy Programme, language cafés, and year-round counselling for international students.
- Practice-oriented programmes with project work integrated from the first semester, bridging theory and real-world application.
- Central location in Dortmund with excellent transport links to Düsseldorf, Cologne, and Amsterdam.
Student life
Fachhochschule Dortmund promotes a vibrant and inclusive student life with a focus on intercultural exchange. The International Office organises events, excursions to the NRW State Parliament, and runs a Buddy Programme to help international students integrate. Language cafés (Talk & More) allow students to practise German and other languages. Dortmund itself offers a lively pub and culture scene, the Westfalenpark, and easy access to the wider Ruhr cultural area.
Fees
InternationalNo tuition fees for international students; only a semester contribution of approximately EUR 300–500 covering student services and public transport.
HomeSame as international — nominal semester fees of EUR 300–500.
LivingMonthly living costs in Dortmund are estimated at EUR 700–950, covering a student room, food, transport, and personal expenses.
Germany's public universities of applied sciences do not charge tuition for most programmes. Check the university website for the current semester fee schedule.
Admissions
Language ProficiencyProof of German (typically B2/C1 for German-taught programmes) or English proficiency for English-taught programmes.
Academic TranscriptCertified copies of all secondary and higher education transcripts.
Passport CopyValid passport.
Residence Permit / VisaNon-EU students require a German student visa; proof of financial means (EUR 992/month) required.
IELTS AcademicMinimum 6.0 overall for English-taught programmes
TOEFL iBTMinimum 72 for English-taught programmes
University scholarships
DAAD Scholarship for Final Study PhaseFinancial support (amount varies); funded by DAAD/Federal Foreign Office
NRWege ins StudiumFinancial support for students with refugee background
Scholarship for More Equal OpportunitiesNeeds-based support for students facing social challenges
Accreditation
Fachhochschule Dortmund is a state-recognised university under North Rhine-Westphalia law, accredited by the German Accreditation Council (Akkreditierungsrat). Individual programmes hold AQAS and ASIIN accreditations.
For international students
GermanyStudent visa & funds
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.
Working while you study
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 you graduate
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.
English tests
- IELTS6.0–6.5 for English-taught bachelor’s; 6.5–7.0 for most master’s
- TOEFL iBT80–90 for most programs; competitive universities (e.g. TUM) 88–95
- German (TestDaF/DSH)German-taught programs require TestDaF level 4 (TDN 4) or DSH-2
Main intakes
OctoberApril
Typical living cost
€1,050/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
Programs
a selectionFachhochschule Dortmund · Germany
Digital Design (Master of Science)
The Master's in Digital Design at FH Dortmund is designed for individuals who want to actively shape the digital transformation of society and the economy. The program focuses on creating holistic digital solutions that are sustainable, usable, technically feasible, and economically viable. Beauty in design is seen as a matter of substance, not just surface. Artificial intelligence is integrated as an important tool and material, offering new possibilities and supporting the design and development process.
Master's
Level
Free
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Fachhochschule Dortmund · Germany
Editorial Design Master of Arts
The Master of Arts in Editorial Design at Fachhochschule Dortmund is a practice-oriented program focused on developing independent, responsible, and visionary professionals. The curriculum is inter- and cross-media, integrating both digital and analog methods. You will explore questions related to media-specific design for publications like books, magazines, and newspapers, visual research, authorship, and the strategic application of media. The program is designed to enhance your skills in visual research, conceptual development, and strategic thinking within the field of editorial design. You will benefit from the expertise of full-time faculty and guest lecturers who are leaders in their respective fields. The university provides access to well-equipped workshops covering various analog and digital printing techniques, virtual reality, photography, and film. This three-semester program begins in the summer semester. The first two semesters include significant design modules and a science module focused on media. The third semester is dedicated to a practical module and the master's thesis. Learning methods include project work, seminars, lectures, excursions, and workshops. Application is open from December to January.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
18 mo
Duration
Fachhochschule Dortmund · Germany
Embedded Systems Engineering - Master of Engineering
The Master of Engineering in Embedded Systems Engineering program prepares you for advanced roles in research and professional practice, equipping you with skills for technical careers and project management. The program covers how to model control systems, implement algorithms for distributed embedded systems, evaluate software engineering tools, and lead cross-domain mechatronic system designs. It offers a comprehensive understanding of the complete systems engineering design flow, enabling you to work effectively in international, cross-domain project teams. The 4-semester program includes foundational compulsory courses in the first two semesters, followed by a 2-semester research phase with electives and thesis work. It integrates with the Ruhr Master School (RMS) for cross-university electives, international projects, summer schools, and symposia. The total workload is 3,600 hours, including the Master's thesis, requiring the accumulation of 120 ECTS credit points.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Fachhochschule Dortmund · Germany
European Master in Project Management (EuroMPM)
The European Master in Project Management (EuroMPM) is a consecutive, application-oriented Master's program designed to equip you with advanced skills for managing projects effectively. It focuses on developing both academic knowledge and practical expertise, preparing you for leadership roles in project management across various industries, particularly in the IT sector. The program emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of project management, integrating multiple disciplines and fostering cross-domain understanding. It also highlights the importance of communication, digital transformation, and leadership within project contexts. With an international focus, the program involves a network of renowned European universities, offering opportunities for study abroad to broaden your global perspective.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Fachhochschule Dortmund · Germany
Film & Sound - Bachelor of Arts
The Bachelor's program in Film & Sound explores the dynamic interplay between audio and visual elements in filmmaking. This program is designed for students passionate about storytelling through moving images and sound, aiming to equip them with a comprehensive understanding of both creative levels. You'll learn to enhance, expand, and counterpoint a film's message through sound design, fostering a deep appreciation for how image and sound work together professionally. This unique, practice-oriented, and career-focused seven-semester program uniquely brings together students from film and sound design specializations. You will collaborate on various film projects, gaining essential experience in audiovisual storytelling. The curriculum includes fictional, documentary, and experimental film projects, preparing you for diverse roles in the industry.
Bachelor's
Level
Free
Tuition
21 mo
Duration
Fachhochschule Dortmund · Germany
Master Digital Transformation (M.Sc.)
The Master Digital Transformation (MDT) program offers an academically and professionally advanced degree focused on leading digital transformation projects. It emphasizes the technical aspects, including process, methods, and tools of software engineering, as well as the development and application of digital systems. The program prepares students to work in cross-domain projects, apply systems engineering approaches, involve users and stakeholders, and integrate results from various fields. Upon completion, graduates earn a Master of Science (M.Sc.) and are qualified for roles in industry, research and development, consulting, and civil services.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Germany
full fundingThe Software Lab (CISPA & University of Stuttgart)
CISPA & University of Stuttgart Software Lab PhD Scholarships
Open 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
Funding
€60k
Max
Dec 31, 2026
Deadline
full fundingMunich School for Data Science (MUDS)
Munich School for Data Science (MUDS) PhD Scholarships
Open 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
Funding
€55k
Max
May 6, 2027
Deadline
full fundingHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon, Institute of Hydrogen Technology
Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon PhD Position in Materials Science and Mechanical Engineering
Open 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.
full
Funding
€55k
Max
May 11, 2027
Deadline
full fundingLeibniz University Hannover
Leibniz University Hannover Soil Science PhD Scholarship
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
Funding
€45k
Max
14d left
Deadline
full fundingForschungszentrum Julich
Forschungszentrum Julich Funded PhD Positions
Open 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
Funding
€42k
Max
Dec 31, 2026
Deadline
full fundingAlexander von Humboldt Foundation
Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellowships (for Postdoctoral and Experienced Researchers)
For 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.
full
Funding
€40k
Max
Nov 15, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students at Fachhochschule Dortmund?
+
Fachhochschule Dortmund does not charge tuition fees for international students. Students only need to pay a nominal semester contribution of approximately EUR 300–500, which covers student services and public transport.
What are the estimated living costs for students in Dortmund?
+
Monthly living costs in Dortmund are estimated to be between EUR 700 and EUR 950. This estimate covers accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
What academic programmes are offered at Fachhochschule Dortmund?
+
Fachhochschule Dortmund offers bachelor's and master's programmes in fields such as engineering, computer science, business, social work, and design.
How does Fachhochschule Dortmund support its international students?
+
The university has a dedicated International Office that offers a Buddy Programme, language cafés, and year-round counselling. They also organize events and excursions to help international students integrate.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for English-taught programmes?
+
For English-taught programmes, international students typically need to provide proof of English proficiency with a minimum IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall or a TOEFL iBT score of at least 72.
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