GERMANY · POTSDAM

Fachhochschule Potsdam

public · Founded 1991 · Languages: en, de

In short

Fachhochschule Potsdam (FHP) is a public university in Germany focused on combining study, research, and practical work. It offers a family-friendly and inclusive environment with a strong emphasis on digital learning and interdisciplinary projects.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1991
Students: 4,027
International students: 398
Acceptance rate: 65%
Tuition (intl): €2–3k/yr
Languages: EN, DE
Location: Potsdam, Germany

For international students

Germany

Student 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.

SourcesStudy in Germany — Proof of financial resources · Make it in Germany — Studying and working · BAMF — To Germany as a graduate · Make it in Germany — Opportunity Card · DAAD — Admission requirements · DAAD — Costs of education and living

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

Fachhochschule Potsdam · Germany

Architecture and Urban Design (BA)

This Bachelor of Arts program in Architecture and Urban Design focuses on the study of urban architecture, equipping you with the technical, cultural, and design fundamentals needed for responsible practice. The 8-semester program emphasizes the close relationship between design, theory, history, landscape architecture, and design. Its goal is to foster an independent, critical, and historically informed architectural perspective to address contemporary urban development challenges. You will learn to analyze and design buildings and urban spaces, considering both their historical context and future potential. The program encourages an understanding of architecture as a synthesis of technical, artistic, and social considerations.

Fachhochschule Potsdam · Germany

Architecture and Urban Design (MA)

The Master of Arts in Architecture and Urban Design is a two-semester full-time program focused on strategies for planning and design within complex urban environments. It encourages a critical reflection of European urban culture, addressing issues from master planning to individual building design. The program emphasizes understanding and addressing challenges related to urban expansion, redevelopment, and densification, while also considering the preservation and integration of historical buildings. Students will engage in a continuous Master's project, often involving a specific European city or region, analyzing its historical, morphological, and architectural specifics. This process involves on-site research, analysis, and the development of design solutions at various scales. The program aims to equip students with the ability to identify, analyze, and creatively solve urban conflicts, fostering individual interpretation and collaborative project development. Graduates are prepared for a variety of career paths in architectural firms, planning offices, urban planning departments, and the real estate industry. The degree is internationally recognized and can qualify individuals for self-employed architectural practice globally. The program also provides a strong foundation for careers in academia, teaching, science, and research.

Fachhochschule Potsdam · Germany

Archival Science (MA)

The Master of Arts (MA) in Archival Science is a part-time continuing education program designed to qualify you for higher archival service positions. It offers a unique blend of archival theory and practice, with a strong emphasis on scientific, information technology, and interdisciplinary skills. The program aims to equip you with competencies in archive management, project management, preservation, digital long-term archiving, and marketing, enabling you to systematically manage archival tasks under evolving professional and social demands. The curriculum is structured around a 'Potsdam model' that integrates information science with a high proportion of technical and scientific skills, complementing traditional archival training. You will engage in intensive learning through two three-day lecture blocks per semester, supported by an e-learning platform. The program is designed for professionals already working in archives, offering a pathway to advanced roles.

Fachhochschule Potsdam · Germany

Archival Studies (BA)

Archives serve as the memory of society, preserving and making accessible important historical and digital records. The Archival Studies bachelor's program equips you with the skills to evaluate analogue and digital materials for their future relevance and to present them effectively to diverse audiences. This program emphasizes practical application, providing a realistic understanding of your future professional field. Graduates are well-prepared for a variety of roles in public archives, private companies, and other institutions, leveraging their specialized knowledge and learned methodologies in high demand on the job market.

Fachhochschule Potsdam · Germany

Arts Management and Cultural Work (B.A.)

This Bachelor of Arts program in Arts Management and Cultural Work offers a broad, interdisciplinary education. It combines insights from cultural, media, and social sciences with essential business administration and management knowledge. The program is designed to provide both theoretical understanding and practical application, preparing students for real-world challenges in the cultural sector through project-based learning.

Fachhochschule Potsdam · Germany

Building Conservation and Construction Work on Existing Buildings (MEng)

This Master's program focuses on the responsible treatment of existing buildings, covering their preservation, renovation, and restoration. It equips graduates with specialized knowledge of historical building structures and materials, emphasizing the technical aspects of conservation. The program prepares you to manage and implement conversion and reuse projects, bridging the gap between monument preservation goals and modern usage requirements. It fosters interdisciplinary collaboration between civil engineers and architects, promoting essential teamwork and communication skills.

Scholarships

for Germany

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

The 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.

Munich 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.

Helmholtz-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.

Leibniz 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.

Forschungszentrum 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.

Alexander 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.

Frequently asked questions

What are the tuition fees at Fachhochschule Potsdam?

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Fachhochschule Potsdam does not charge tuition fees for most programmes. Students are required to pay a semester contribution of approximately €300-350. Some master's programmes may have additional fees, so it's advisable to check the official FHP website.

What are the estimated living costs for students in Potsdam?

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Monthly living costs in Potsdam are estimated to be around €800-1,000. This figure includes expenses for accommodation, food, and transportation.

What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?

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For programmes taught in English, international students typically need to demonstrate English proficiency with a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or a TOEFL iBT score of 80.

Does Fachhochschule Potsdam offer support for international students?

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Yes, Fachhochschule Potsdam has a diverse student body from over 70 countries and emphasizes an inclusive environment. The university offers various services to support student well-being and academic success, and promotes a family-friendly campus.

What kind of research opportunities are available?

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FHP actively engages in research and transfer projects, often in collaboration with regional partners. These projects focus on developing innovative solutions for societal challenges, particularly in sustainable development and digitalization.

Fachhochschule Potsdam

Why study here

Student life

For international students