Berlin is one of the world’s leading centres for higher education and research. In Germany, the city is renowned for having the highest number of universities and higher education facilities. There are 4 state universities and around 27 private higher education centres in Berlin. The most famous of these four state universities is, of course, the Humboldt University.
Humboldt University Berlin: Europe’s Forerunner
Founded by Friedrich Wilhelm in 1811, this university is the oldest in Berlin. The higher education model it pioneered has been a source of inspiration for other universities around the world. For this reason, Humboldt is also referred to as the “mother of all universities.” Many famous scholars, including Albert Einstein, have chosen this institution as their workplace. The Humboldt University, where 41 Nobel Prize-winning academics either studied or taught, is among the best universities in Europe. In the field of social sciences, it is one of the most prestigious institutions in the world. Today, the university’s four faculties offer 189 courses to 34,000 students.
A Day in the Life of a Humboldt Student
The main campus of the University of Humboldt is located at the city centre, in Mitte. When you approach the main building, you see the statue of Wilhelm von Humboldt, the founder of the university. There are usually many stalls selling second hand books on either side of the statue. As soon as you enter from the main door, you are immediately greeted by the words of Karl Marx: “Philosophers have only interpreted the world; but the point is to change it”. It is possible to see the traces of other famous thinkers who have studied or worked here. Despite being such a long-established and old institution, the staff use the most contemporary educational methods and tools in bright, spacious and modern classrooms.
During the summer, the students of Humboldt University either study or relax in the green backyard. They can find books on any subject in the many university libraries. There is one main library, but each faculty has one to itself. Six million books and other types of educational material are at the students’ disposal at any moment. Over 200,000 e-books, 16,000 articles and 200 databases are at their fingertips.
If you have a good academic background, you have countless reasons to choose this university. You can take advantage of their international student service to learn more about studying at Humboldt University Berlin. Remember, you can attend our German courses in Berlin as preparation for your academic studies.