University of Potsdam logo

University of Potsdam

Potsdam, DE · Ranking #420

The University of Potsdam is a public research university located in Brandenburg, Germany, near Berlin. Founded in 1991, it offers programs at bachelor, master, and doctoral levels across natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, law, economics, and education. It is recognized for research in digital transformation, climate science, and cognitive science. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, international collaboration, and research-led teaching. Campuses are equipped with modern laboratories, libraries, and study facilities. Student life is active, with cultural events, sports, and numerous student organizations.

University of Potsdam logo

University of Potsdam

About the university

The University of Potsdam is a public research university located in Brandenburg, Germany, near Berlin. Founded in 1991, it offers programs at bachelor, master, and doctoral levels across natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, law, economics, and education. It is recognized for research in digital transformation, climate science, and cognitive science. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, international collaboration, and research-led teaching. Campuses are equipped with modern laboratories, libraries, and study facilities. Student life is active, with cultural events, sports, and numerous student organizations.

Key information

  • Location: Potsdam, DE
  • Ranking #420
  • QS #601
  • THE #401
  • US News #380
  • National ranking #23
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • Law
  • Economics
  • Education
  • Psychology
  • Computer Science
  • Humanities
  • Social Sciences

Programs (30)

  • Medicine
  • Pharmacy
  • Psychology
  • Computer Science
  • 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: 21,000
  • Undergraduate: 13,500
  • Graduate: 6,500
  • International students: 16%

Campus life

Campus life at the University of Potsdam is dynamic and culturally rich. Students participate in academic societies, sports, music, arts, and community projects. Modern libraries, laboratories, and lecture halls support learning and research. The proximity to Berlin enhances access to cultural events, internships, and international networking opportunities.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: €280 - €600 / per month

Housing options

  • Student dormitories
  • shared apartments
  • private apartments

Student clubs and organizations

  • Cultural associations
  • debate societies
  • student government
  • music and arts clubs
  • international student clubs

Sports

  • Football
  • basketball
  • volleyball
  • rowing
  • athletics

Career & internships

Employment rate: 82%

Partner companies

  • Siemens
  • Bosch
  • Deutsche Telekom
  • Allianz
  • PwC
  • SAP
  • BMW

Internships: Internships are integrated across programs, especially in law, economics, and computer science. Students collaborate with companies, research institutes, and government organizations. Career services provide placement support, networking, and professional development. Many internships lead to employment in Germany and internationally.

Admission requirements

Required documents

  • Academic transcripts
  • diploma certificate
  • CV
  • motivation letter
  • language proficiency certificate
  • passport copy
  • recommendation letters

Minimum GPA: 2.8

Tuition costs

  • €300 - €350 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 50.00%
  • Scholarships available: The University of Potsdam offers scholarships via DAAD, Deutschlandstipendium, and internal merit-based programs. Additional support is available for international students, including subsidies for living costs. Early application is recommended due to limited funding.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1991
  • Teaching languages: english, german
  • Study formats: offline

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