HomeGlobal NetworksHamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences (HSHL)

Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences (HSHL)

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)

CategoryInformation
Founded2009
LocationHamm and Lippstadt, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
TypePublic University of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule)
Total EnrollmentApproximately 5,275 students
International StudentsApproximately 10% of student body
CampusesTwo: Hamm Campus and Lippstadt Campus
Teaching ApproachSmall groups, practice-oriented, interdisciplinary
Research FocusApplication-oriented, future-oriented, multifaceted

Global Rankings (2025)

Ranking BodyCategoryPositionPercentile
SAA Best University Rankings 2025World Rankings#5,400Top 64%
SAA Best University Rankings 2025Europe Rankings#1,576Top 63%
SAA Best University Rankings 2025Germany Rankings#264
SAA Best Value University Rankings 2025World Rankings#5,499Top 65%
SAA Best Value University Rankings 2025Europe Rankings#1,539Top 61%
SAA Best Value University Rankings 2025Germany 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:

CharacteriticDescription
Small GroupsStudents learn in small groups with close contact to lecturers
Practice-OrientedStrong focus on current and future market requirements
Experienced FacultyYoung team of professors with extensive practical business experience
Interdisciplinary SetupTeaching focuses on individual strengths and social competencies (teamwork)
Project-OrientedGreat importance attached to project-oriented working from the start
Creativity & CommunicationKey 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.

SemesterFee AmountIncludes
Winter Semester 2025/26 €334.30Administrative 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 CategoryMonthly Cost (EUR)
Accommodation (rent, utilities)Varies (see accommodation section)
Health InsuranceIncluded in €850 estimate
FoodIncluded in €850 estimate
TransportationCovered by a semester ticket
Personal ExpensesIncluded in €850 estimate
Total Recommended Monthly BudgetApproximately €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:

ScholarshipDescriptionEligibility
DeutschlandstipendiumMerit-based scholarship providing financial supportOutstanding students; Electronic Engineering students have successfully applied
Other university scholarshipsVarious optionsCheck 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 TypeLanguageRequired ProficiencyAccepted Certificates
Engligh-taught programmesEnglishB2 (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)

ProgrammeIntakeApplication PeriodDeadline
Master’s programs Summer Semester 2026 December 4, 2025 – January 15, 2026 January 15, 2026
Electronic Engineering (Bachelor’s)Winter Semester 2026/27December 4, 2025 – September 9, 2026September 9, 2026
Business Administration (Master’s)Winter SemesterJuly 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.

ResourceDescription
HSHL HandoutDetailed information, addresses, and tips provided by university
Local housing marketPrivate rentals, shared flats (WG), student dormitories
TimelineStart 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

TaskTimingDetails
Registration (Einwohnermeldeamt)Within 2 weeksRegister at local Residents’ Registration Office
Residence Permit (non-EU)As soon as possibleApply at Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde); valid one year, renewable
Bank AccountUpon arrivalFree student accounts available
Broadcasting Fee (Rundfunkgebühren)After registrationEvery 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

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