Germany’s Young, Dynamic University for Future-Oriented Engineering
Institutional Overview & Key Facts
Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences (Hochschule Hamm-Lippstadt) is a young, dynamic public university founded in 2009 in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.
With its two modern, purpose-built campuses in Hamm and Lippstadt, HSHL offers a future-oriented, practice-integrated education that prepares students for current and future market demands.
Key Facts (2026)
| Category | Information |
| Founded | 2009 |
| Location | Hamm and Lippstadt, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany |
| Type | Public University of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule) |
| Total Enrollment | Approximately 5,275 students |
| International Students | Approximately 10% of student body |
| Campuses | Two: Hamm Campus and Lippstadt Campus |
| Teaching Approach | Small groups, practice-oriented, interdisciplinary |
| Research Focus | Application-oriented, future-oriented, multifaceted |
Global Rankings (2025)
| Ranking Body | Category | Position | Percentile |
| SAA Best University Rankings 2025 | World Rankings | #5,400 | Top 64% |
| SAA Best University Rankings 2025 | Europe Rankings | #1,576 | Top 63% |
| SAA Best University Rankings 2025 | Germany Rankings | #264 | – |
| SAA Best Value University Rankings 2025 | World Rankings | #5,499 | Top 65% |
| SAA Best Value University Rankings 2025 | Europe Rankings | #1,539 | Top 61% |
| SAA Best Value University Rankings 2025 | Germany Rankings | #237 | – |
Note: As a young university founded in 2009, HSHL’s ranking position reflects its rapid growth trajectory rather than historical prestige. Its strength lies in practical orientation, modern facilities, and strong industry connections.
Locations
(Two Vibrant Campuses in North Rhine-Westphalia)
1. Hamm Campus
Hamm is a former coal mining town that has successfully transformed itself into a cultural metropolis. Today, it is home to many promising industries important for the energy transition and combating global climate change. The city offers a rich cultural scene and excellent connections to the rest of North Rhine-Westphalia.
2. Lippstadt Campus
Lippstadt is a town of approximately 67,000 inhabitants in North Rhine-Westphalia. It is home to numerous “hidden champions” of the international automotive industry, including HELLA, a globally active automotive supplier based directly adjacent to the university campus. With about 6,000 employees, this high-tech corporation is the largest employer in the city and offers excellent career prospects for students.
Regional Advantages
- North Rhine-Westphalia: Germany’s most densely populated state, bordering the Netherlands
- Diverse Population: More than 5 million people with a migration background (almost one in three residents)
- Transport Links: Railway station within a 10-minute walk from Lippstadt campus; B55 road connects to the motorway; Paderborn-Lippstadt airport offers affordable national and international destinations
- CARTEC Technology Centre: Located in Lippstadt, where many successful companies have been founded
Academic Excellence & Teaching Philosophy
Teaching Approach
HSHL’s educational philosophy is built on several distinctive pillars:
| Characteritic | Description |
| Small Groups | Students learn in small groups with close contact to lecturers |
| Practice-Oriented | Strong focus on current and future market requirements |
| Experienced Faculty | Young team of professors with extensive practical business experience |
| Interdisciplinary Setup | Teaching focuses on individual strengths and social competencies (teamwork) |
| Project-Oriented | Great importance attached to project-oriented working from the start |
| Creativity & Communication | Key factors in preparing experts for engineering, sciences, computer sciences, and economics |
Research Focus
- Application-oriented and future-oriented research
- Continuously growing research activities across various future areas
- Multifaceted approach to solving real-world problems
Global Perspective
HSHL believes that global issues of the 21st century define what they teach. The university actively promotes international exchange through:
- Partner universities worldwide
- International research networks
- Students from different countries completing entire programs or exchange semesters
- Internship and study abroad semesters integrated into degree programs
Programmes Offered (2026)
HSHL offers a wide range of interdisciplinary, practice-oriented Bachelor’s and Master’s programs. The university has 14 Bachelor’s degree programs and 5 Master’s degree programs.
Spotlight: Bachelor’s in Electronic Engineering (English-Taught)
The Bachelor of Engineering in Electronic Engineering is HSHL’s flagship English-taught program, designed to prepare students for careers in the age of digitisation.
Program Overview:
- Degree: Bachelor of Engineering
- Location: Lippstadt Campus
- Duration: 7 semesters
- Teaching Language: English (100%)
- Beginning: Winter semester (September)
- Tuition Fees: None
Tuition Fees & Affordability (2026)
Zero Tuition Fees
HSHL charges no tuition fees for international students at both Bachelor’s and Master’s levels. This makes it an exceptionally affordable option for high-quality German engineering education.
Semester Contribution
All students must pay a semester fee each semester upon enrolment and re-registration. The fee includes the NRW-Ticket for public transportation throughout North Rhine-Westphalia.
| Semester | Fee Amount | Includes |
| Winter Semester 2025/26 | €334.30 | Administrative costs, NRW-Ticket, AStA fees, university sports |
Note: The amount may change slightly each semester. Students must pay this fee even if they have not yet arrived in Germany due to visa delays.
Living Costs
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (EUR) |
| Accommodation (rent, utilities) | Varies (see accommodation section) |
| Health Insurance | Included in €850 estimate |
| Food | Included in €850 estimate |
| Transportation | Covered by a semester ticket |
| Personal Expenses | Included in €850 estimate |
| Total Recommended Monthly Budget | Approximately €850 |
Important Financial Notes
- Budget more for the first few months due to rental deposits and accommodation setup costs
- International students from outside the EU cannot work indefinitely while studying
- Part-time jobs can supplement but not fully cover living expenses
- Scholarships are recommended (see below)
Scholarships & Financial Support
HSHL offers various scholarship opportunities for international students:
| Scholarship | Description | Eligibility |
| Deutschlandstipendium | Merit-based scholarship providing financial support | Outstanding students; Electronic Engineering students have successfully applied |
| Other university scholarships | Various options | Check with International Office |
Recommendation: Students should actively seek scholarships before arrival, as part-time work cannot fully finance living costs.
Admission Requirements (2026)
University Entrance Qualification (HZB)
To study at HSHL, you need a higher education entrance qualification equivalent to the German “Abitur” or “Fachabitur”.
This is typically your secondary school leaving certificate. Uni-assist and HSHL evaluate your documents during the official application period.
Language Requirements
| Programme Type | Language | Required Proficiency | Accepted Certificates |
| Engligh-taught programmes | English | B2 (CEFR) | IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent (check programme website) |
Important Notes
- The two English-taught programs are exempt from German requirements
Program-Specific Requirements
- No entrance examinations
- No pre-study internships required
- Some programs require: English knowledge, a minimum grade, or specific Bachelor’s content
Application Deadlines (2026)
| Programme | Intake | Application Period | Deadline |
| Master’s programs | Summer Semester 2026 | December 4, 2025 – January 15, 2026 | January 15, 2026 |
| Electronic Engineering (Bachelor’s) | Winter Semester 2026/27 | December 4, 2025 – September 9, 2026 | September 9, 2026 |
| Business Administration (Master’s) | Winter Semester | – | July 31 (Germans and inhabitants) |
Recommendation: Apply as early as possible to avoid delays in visa processing and arrival.
Accommodation & Arrival
Accommodation
HSHL cannot provide accommodation. Students must arrange their own housing. The search often takes several weeks, so start immediately after receiving admission.
| Resource | Description |
| HSHL Handout | Detailed information, addresses, and tips provided by university |
| Local housing market | Private rentals, shared flats (WG), student dormitories |
| Timeline | Start search as soon as you receive admission |
Late Arrival
If visa delays cause late arrival:
- You can start later or in a subsequent semester if fully enrolled and insured
- “Visa support letter” available upon request
- Warning: Late arrival significantly complicates studies (missed introductions, altered course sequence)
- HSHL is a face-to-face university; few online courses
- Exams usually only on site
- Semester and health insurance fees must be paid even before arrival
First Steps After Arrival
| Task | Timing | Details |
| Registration (Einwohnermeldeamt) | Within 2 weeks | Register at local Residents’ Registration Office |
| Residence Permit (non-EU) | As soon as possible | Apply at Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde); valid one year, renewable |
| Bank Account | Upon arrival | Free student accounts available |
| Broadcasting Fee (Rundfunkgebühren) | After registration | Every household pays for public broadcasting |
Important Notes for Prospective Students
Health Insurance
- Mandatory for enrolment
- Must be presented before studies can begin
- Cannot start without it
Work Limitations
- Non-EU students cannot work indefinitely
- Part-time jobs can supplement but not fully finance living costs
- Plan finances carefully