University of Cologne logo

University of Cologne

Cologne, DE · Ranking #280

The University of Cologne is one of the oldest and largest public research universities in Germany, founded in 1388 and re-established in 1919. It offers a wide range of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs in economics, law, social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, and medicine. The university is internationally recognized for its strong research output, particularly in economics and business. It promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and global partnerships. Students benefit from modern facilities, libraries, and research centers. Campus life is vibrant, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and sports activities. International students are supported through language and integration programs.

University of Cologne logo

University of Cologne

About the university

The University of Cologne is one of the oldest and largest public research universities in Germany, founded in 1388 and re-established in 1919. It offers a wide range of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs in economics, law, social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, and medicine. The university is internationally recognized for its strong research output, particularly in economics and business. It promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and global partnerships. Students benefit from modern facilities, libraries, and research centers. Campus life is vibrant, with numerous student organizations, cultural events, and sports activities. International students are supported through language and integration programs.

Key information

  • Location: Cologne, DE
  • Ranking #280
  • QS #268
  • THE #157
  • US News #224
  • National ranking #9
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • Economics
  • Business Administration
  • Law
  • Social Sciences
  • Humanities
  • Natural Sciences
  • Medicine

Programs (30)

  • Medicine
  • Computer Science
  • Pharmacy
  • Psychology
  • Architecture
  • Business Administration
  • Economics
  • Marketing
  • Finance and Accounting
  • Law
  • Sociology
  • Journalism and Communication
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • History
  • Philosophy
  • Philology and Languages
  • Translation and Interpreting
  • Fine Arts
  • Education
  • Engineering
  • International Relations
  • Data Science
  • Political Science
  • Art History
  • Environmental Science
  • Anthropology
  • Linguistics

Student body

  • Total students: 50,000
  • Undergraduate: 30,000
  • Graduate: 16,500
  • International students: 13%

Campus life

Campus life at the University of Cologne is dynamic and diverse. Students participate in academic projects, student organizations, cultural events, and sports. The university offers modern facilities including libraries, research centers, and sports complexes. International students benefit from integration programs, language courses, and career services. Cologne provides a vibrant urban environment with strong cultural, social, and professional opportunities.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: €400 - €800 / per month

Housing options

  • Student dormitories
  • shared apartments
  • private apartments
  • student residence halls

Student clubs and organizations

  • Student unions
  • business clubs
  • cultural associations
  • international clubs
  • sports clubs

Sports

  • Football
  • basketball
  • volleyball
  • athletics
  • rowing

Career & internships

Employment rate: 85%

Partner companies

  • PwC
  • Deloitte
  • EY
  • KPMG
  • Deutsche Bank
  • Bayer
  • BASF
  • Siemens

Internships: Internships are integrated into many programs, especially in business, economics, and social sciences. Students gain practical experience in companies, research institutes, and public organizations. Career services provide support with job placement, CV writing, and networking. Many internships lead to employment in Germany and internationally.

Admission requirements

Required documents

  • La Universidad de Colonia ofrece becas a través de DAAD
  • programas por mérito y financiación específica de facultades. También hay apoyo financiero para vivienda y manutención. Se recomienda a los estudiantes internacionales aplicar con antelación debido a la alta competencia.

Minimum GPA: 3

Tuition costs

  • €300 - €350 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 45.00%
  • Scholarships available: The University of Cologne offers scholarships through DAAD, merit-based programs, and faculty-specific funding. Additional financial support for housing and living expenses is available. International students are advised to apply early due to competitive funding opportunities.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1388
  • Teaching languages: english, german
  • Study formats: offline

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