Westfälische Hochschule, also known as the Westphalian University of Applied Sciences, is a modern institution located in Germany's former industrial center around the River Ruhr. Established in 1992, the university operates across three campuses in Gelsenkirchen, Bocholt, and Recklinghausen. It serves a diverse student body of approximately 9,000 individuals from over 50 countries, guided by more than 200 highly qualified professors.
Mission and Vision
The university is committed to delivering high-quality, practice-oriented education, emphasizing the development of competencies necessary for successful problem-solving in professional settings. It aims to foster creativity, project management skills, multidisciplinary collaboration, foreign language proficiency, and intercultural understanding among its students. The institution also promotes lifelong learning, encouraging graduates to continually update their knowledge to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving information society.
Academic Focus and Programs
Westfälische Hochschule offers a broad spectrum of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including engineering, technology, natural sciences, business studies, law, and journalism. The curriculum is designed to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical applications, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges of their respective industries. Practical experience phases are embedded into all courses of study, providing students with initial exposure to their chosen professions.
Research and Innovation
The university places a strong emphasis on applied research and development, often collaborating with regional and international partners in industry and the economy. This focus on practical learning and cooperation supports international careers and contributes to the innovative capacity of the surrounding region. High-quality teaching, coupled with outstanding research and development technologies, attracts more than 2,000 new students annually.
International Partnerships
With over 60 partner universities worldwide, Westfälische Hochschule is part of an international community that provides a truly intercultural environment for both learning and research. These partnerships enable students and staff to benefit from intercultural teams and offer opportunities for exchange studies, internships, research stays, and language training. This international dimension stimulates creativity and innovation, aligning with the university's mission to take responsibility for the future and find solutions for tomorrow.
Leadership Team
The university's leadership includes:
- Prof. Dr. Bernd Kriegesmann: Serving as the President since 2008, he is also the founder and director of the Institute for Innovation Research and Management. His extensive experience in business administration, particularly in small and medium-sized enterprises, contributes significantly to the university's strategic direction.
- Prof. Dr. Kerstin Ettl: Appointed in October 2020 as Professor of Business Administration with a focus on Management, Gender, and Diversity at the Bocholt campus. Her research encompasses entrepreneurship, SME management, and the interplay between diversity, innovation, and business development.
- Prof. Dr. Julia Frohne: Since 2015, she has been a Professor of Communication Management at the Gelsenkirchen campus. With a background in strategic communication processes, she brings valuable insights into complex communication management and organizational development.
Competitor Analysis
In the landscape of German universities of applied sciences, several institutions offer similar programs and have comparable missions:
- WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management: A leading German business school known for its excellence in management education, offering a range of programs from undergraduate to executive education.
- Ruhr West University of Applied Sciences (HRW): Located in the western Ruhr region, HRW emphasizes STEM subjects and business administration, promoting an entrepreneurial mindset and interdisciplinary cooperation.
- Fachhochschule der Wirtschaft (FHDW): Offers dual and part-time bachelor's and master's degree programs in business administration and business informatics, with a strong focus on integrating theory and practice.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
Westfälische Hochschule's extensive network of international partners includes institutions such as:
- Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (Brazil)
- University of Western Ontario (Canada)
- Catholic University Atma Jaya (Indonesia)
- Clemson University (USA)
- Juniata College (USA)
- University of Central Florida (USA)
These collaborations enhance the university's global reach and provide students with opportunities for international exposure and experience.
Operational Insights
The university's strategic focus on applied learning, international partnerships, and research and development positions it as a significant player in the region's educational landscape. Its commitment to integrating practical experience into the curriculum ensures that graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the modern workforce.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Looking ahead, Westfälische Hochschule aims to continue expanding its international collaborations, enhancing its research capabilities, and adapting its programs to meet emerging industry needs. By fostering an environment of innovation and practical learning, the university is well-positioned to contribute to regional development and address global challenges.
Contact Information
For more information, please visit the official website of Westfälische Hochschule.
