Best Universities in Germany Based on Their Majors

Who doesn’t want to study in Germany? The tuition is free, it’s multicultural, and it has centralized educational cities. However, choosing the best universities in Germany is not an easy matter because they have specializations that you might not know about, plus a curriculum that is very different from Indonesia.

This country offers more than 400 quality higher education institutions with a variety of excellent majors. Are you considering continuing your studies in Germany? This article will help you find the best universities based on the excellence of their respective study programs.

Best Universities in Germany by Major

Here is a list of universities that are consistently recognized as the best, based on their excellence in various fields of study.

1. Technical University of Munich (TUM)

The Technical University of Munich ranks first in Germany and is the only public university fully dedicated to science and technology. This university has produced 17 Nobel laureates in physics, chemistry, and medicine since 1927. 

You will find an academic environment that is very supportive of innovation and cutting-edge research in the field of technology. TUM offers special excellence in engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, agriculture, food technology and brewing, and medicine. 

If you are interested in mechanical engineering, TUM is the number one university in Germany for engineering, according to the QS World University Rankings 2024-25.

2. Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU)

Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich was founded in 1472. It is a public research university with comprehensive programs from undergraduate to doctoral. This university offers exceptional excellence in the fields of social sciences, humanities, and medicine. You will get the experience of studying at one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. LMU Munich is famous for its research strength in philosophy, history, and political science.

3. Universität Heidelberg

Universität Heidelberg, founded in 1386, is the oldest university in Germany. Heidelberg is the highest-ranked German university in ‘medicine and life sciences’. This campus is in 38th place globally according to the QS World University Rankings 2024-25. Heidelberg has produced 27 Nobel laureates.

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4. Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin

Humboldt University of Berlin is the best university in Berlin. This is a public institution in Germany that was founded in 1810. It has a very strong reputation in the fields of natural sciences, mathematics, and philosophy. 

If you are interested in the humanities and social sciences, Humboldt offers excellent programs with an interdisciplinary approach. This university is also known for its popular alumni, such as Karl Marx, Friedrich Nietzsche, and the composer Robert Schumann.

5. Freie Universität Berlin

Freie University of Berlin (FUB) was founded in 1948 and is a public research university with comprehensive programs from undergraduate to doctoral. This university is also very famous for its political science and international relations programs. 

You have the opportunity to study at one of the most important political study centers in Europe. FU Berlin has a wide international network with more than 100 partner universities worldwide.

6. RWTH Aachen University

RWTH Aachen University was founded in 1870. This is a public research university that specializes in technology. This campus ranks 7th in Germany and 150th globally. In the field of mechanical engineering, RWTH Aachen is in 19th place globally, making it the best campus in Germany for this specialization. This university offers a very supportive environment for those who are interested in engineering and applied technology.

7. Technische Universität Berlin

Technical University of Berlin (TUB) is a public research university that specializes in engineering and technology. TU Berlin is also home to the BIFOLD Institute, one of six institutions funded by the federal government in the German Centers of Excellence for AI Research. There are 12 research groups that focus on Big Data Management and Machine Learning. You will find cutting-edge information technology programs at TU Berlin.

8. Universität Hamburg

The University of Hamburg (UHH) is a public research university with comprehensive programs from undergraduate to doctoral. This campus ranks 8th in Germany and 163rd globally and has a special excellence in the fields of oceanography, meteorology, and climate research. Hamburg offers a strategic location as a port city that supports marine and international trade studies. You will get access to world-class research facilities.

9. Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology ranks 102nd globally for the 2024-25 academic year. KIT is the result of a merger between a research university and a national research center. They created a unique institution that combines education with applied research. 

You will find special excellence in the fields of renewable energy, nanotechnology, and robotics at KIT. The university has large-scale research facilities, including a research reactor and a supercomputer center.

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10. Universität Freiburg

This university is famous for its environmental and forestry programs, which are the best in Germany. Located in the Black Forest region, Freiburg offers an ideal environment for those who are interested in environmental and sustainability studies. 

This university has programs that combine natural sciences, technology, and social sciences. Its excellent programs include forestry science, renewable energy, and sustainability studies.

Tips and Requirements for International Students

Getting a spot at one of these universities is not easy. You must prepare yourself thoroughly.

• Academic Requirements: A good GPA is very important. You might also need to take a standardized test like TestAS, which tests your cognitive and academic abilities.
• Language Skills: Most study programs in Germany are taught in German. Therefore, you must prove your German language proficiency with a test like TestDaF or the Goethe-Zertifikat. Although some programs are taught in English, mastering German will greatly help you adapt.
• Documents: You must prepare important documents like transcripts, recommendation letters, and a Statement of Purpose (SOP).
• Application Process: The application process can be complicated, so start well in advance. Many universities use the Uni-Assist platform to process international student applications.
• Finances: You must show proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses, which is usually around €11,208 per year, as a requirement to get a student visa.

Choosing the best university in Germany is a strategic decision that should be influenced by the major you are interested in. By targeting universities that are strong in your desired field, you will not only get a high-quality education but also better career opportunities. Although the competition is tough, with thorough preparation and a clear understanding of the requirements, you can increase your chances of being accepted into your dream university.