Hochschule Neu-Ulm (HNU) is a public university of applied sciences in Bavaria, Germany, offering practice-oriented programs in fields like business informatics, cyber security, and AI. It is known for high student satisfaction and does not typically charge tuition fees for international students.
Hochschule Neu-Ulm (HNU) is a university of applied sciences located in Neu-Ulm, Germany. Known for its strong practical relevance, HNU focuses on applied research and maintains close cooperation with partners from business and society. The university offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, preparing students for real-world challenges. HNU has recently expanded its study programs to include new Bachelor's and Master's degrees in areas like Cyber Security, Smart Mobility Management, Artificial Intelligence and Health Informatics, and Digital Leadership in Information Management. The university has also been recognized for high student satisfaction in the CHE University Ranking 2026/27. Research at HNU is centered around "Digital Innovations for a Changing Society," with key areas addressing future-oriented challenges in companies and society. The university has been granted the independent right to award doctorates through a joint doctoral center, further enhancing its research capabilities. HNU provides a modern campus environment and state-of-the-art facilities that support both teaching and research.
Student life at HNU is enriched by practical experiences and international opportunities, such as the 'International Start-up Tour' where Master's students explore innovation ecosystems abroad. The university also organizes events like the 'Girls @ HNU Summer Lab' to introduce programming basics to schoolgirls, fostering a vibrant and engaging campus community. Students visit professional firms, such as auditing companies in Ulm, to gain real-world insights into their fields of study.
Specific tuition fees for non-consecutive master's programs or specific types of international students were not detailed. It is advisable to check the official HNU website for the most up-to-date information on semester contributions and any potential tuition fees.
Hochschule Neu-Ulm is a state-recognised public university of applied sciences in Bavaria, Germany, subject to Bavarian Higher Education Act accreditation procedures. HNU has been granted the independent right to award doctorates through its doctoral centre.
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.
The Bachelor of Science in Applied Cyber Security (ACS) program focuses on understanding, protecting, and defending digital systems. You will learn to analyze cyberattacks, secure IT infrastructures, and investigate digital incidents through practical exercises, projects, and case studies. The curriculum covers cyber security, ethical hacking, forensics, and security management, preparing you to become a specialist in shaping a secure digital future. The program emphasizes a blend of technical IT expertise with organizational, legal, and economic competencies, ensuring a holistic understanding of cyber security challenges.
The Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics at Hochschule Neu-Ulm (HNU) focuses on transforming large, complex datasets into actionable knowledge for informed business decisions. This program equips you with the skills to build a 'data-based enterprise,' applicable in fields such as marketing, logistics, controlling, and customer relationship management.
The Digital Leadership in Information Management (DLI) Master of Science program is designed for students with a background in Business Information Systems, Business Administration, or Computer Science who want to lead and shape digital transformation. It focuses on understanding and managing complex digital challenges, including AI and future socio-technical processes. The program emphasizes a hands-on approach, integrating analytical excellence with real-world impact through an 18-month research project that tackles industry-identified challenges. This program equips you with future-ready skills like problem-solving, digital literacy, and change management, preparing you for management roles in IT, consulting, or even an academic career. You will learn to think in systems, make evidence-based decisions, lead from day one, and design solutions with practical impact.
This Master of Science program focuses on designing and implementing successful digital business models for the future. You will learn methods and gain the mindset needed to identify potential for innovation and bring it to market. The program emphasizes practical application through labs, preparing you to become an entrepreneur or intrapreneur in an international context. You will develop new ways of thinking to leverage global opportunities, identify innovations driving digital transformation, and shape its implementation. The curriculum includes a team project to develop scalable ideas from concept to market maturity.
This Bachelor of Science program equips you with specialized skills in business informatics, focusing on practical problem-solving within the automotive and mobility sectors. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of industry players, products, services, and business processes, with a particular emphasis on the challenges and opportunities presented by the digitization of mobility. The curriculum is designed to teach you how information systems support these functions and enable better products and services, preparing you for key roles in the ongoing transformation of the automotive and mobility industries.
This Master of Science program equips you to become a leader in global entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainability. You will learn to develop sustainable business models and navigate digital transformations within an international context. The interdisciplinary curriculum allows you to tailor your studies through a wide range of electives, preparing you for roles in international companies, for starting your own business, or for further academic pursuits. The program emphasizes practical application through a Junior Consulting Project and research-focused Master's thesis.
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.
As a public university in Bavaria, Germany, Hochschule Neu-Ulm generally does not charge tuition fees for most undergraduate and consecutive master's programs. However, semester fees may apply, and it's advisable to check the official HNU website for the most current information.
International students need a recognized university-entrance qualification equivalent to the German Abitur. For English-taught programs, a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL iBT score of 80 is required. Specific guidance for EU and non-EU applicants is available from the International Office.
HNU offers Bachelor's and Master's degrees with a strong focus on applied sciences. Recent expansions include programs in Cyber Security, Smart Mobility Management, Artificial Intelligence and Health Informatics, and Digital Leadership in Information Management.
Hochschule Neu-Ulm has been recognized for high student satisfaction, achieving a 'Top Group – high student satisfaction' ranking in the CHE University Ranking 2026/27.
Research at HNU is centered around 'Digital Innovations for a Changing Society,' addressing future-oriented challenges in companies and society. The university also has the independent right to award doctorates through a joint doctoral center.