Humboldt University of Berlin Summary
The Humboldt University of Berlin is one of the most historic and academically influential public research universities in Germany. The university is located in the middle of Berlin and is famous for the humanities, social sciences, law, economics, natural sciences, life sciences, mathematics, computer science, education, philosophy, history, cultural studies, language studies, political science and interdisciplinary research. One of the best known universities in Germany, it has played a major role in the creation of the modern research university model.
Founded in 1810, the university is closely associated with the Humboldtian idea of the unity of teaching and research. This means that students are trained in the classroom and are also encouraged to develop independent academic thinking, research skills and intellectual depth. Humboldt University is especially suitable for students who want a traditional German university with a strong academic culture, public research identity and access to one of the most important political, cultural and professional cities in Europe.
Several programs offered at the Humboldt University of Berlin are offered in German at the undergraduate level. International applicants should check requirements for German language carefully before applying. Undergraduate fields of study are law, economics, business administration, social sciences, history, philosophy, cultural studies, German literature, English studies, language studies, education, psychology-related study, mathematics, computer science, physics, chemistry, biology, geography, agricultural sciences and related fields. Some subjects may be available via mono-bachelor, combined bachelor and teacher education structures.
Humboldt University offers German-taught, English-taught and bilingual routes at master’s level, depending on the subject. Popular postgraduate subjects are Economics, Business Administration, Computer Science, Global History, Social Sciences, European History, Philosophy, Linguistics, Mind and Brain, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Integrated Natural Resource Management, Agricultural Economics and Gender Studies. The university is especially attractive for students interested in the fields of humanities, social research, public policy, economics, language studies, science and interdisciplinary academic work.
Humboldt University encourages research at doctoral level in the humanities and social sciences, law, economics, natural sciences, life sciences, mathematics, informatics, education and interdisciplinary areas. Doctoral candidates are assigned to faculties, graduate programs, research groups and supervisors. Berlin provides PhD candidates with access to libraries, archives, museums, public institutions, policy organizations and academic networks within the research landscape.
Tuition fees at Humboldt University of Berlin are not charged for regular degree programs in general. Students pay semester fees and contributions. These fees usually include administrative costs, student services and public transport related benefits depending on current rules. Some continuing education, special, exchange, or professional programs may have separate fees. Berlin is also less expensive than Munich, but you will need to plan well in terms of accommodation, health insurance, food, transportation and personal expenses.
Humboldt University Berlin is best for students interested in a historic public research university with strong academic depth, a central Berlin location and an excellent reputation in the humanities, social sciences, law, economics and sciences. It is especially suited to students who want to pursue careers in research, academia, public policy, international organizations, law, education, culture, media, government, NGOs, science and doctoral study.

