university of applied sciences
Loading your saved state.
university of applied sciences
A higher education institution that, unlike a university, is more strongly focused on the practical application of knowledge and preparation for a profession. The course of study is often more application-oriented and includes practical semesters.
Sie studiert Wirtschaftsingenieurwesen an einer Fachhochschule in Berlin.
She is studying industrial engineering at a university of applied sciences in Berlin.
The word is composed of 'Fach' (specialized field), 'hoch' (high), and 'Schule' (school). So literally, it is a 'higher school for a specific subject' and emphasizes specialization.
Eine Fachhochschule bietet oft sehr spezialisierte Studiengänge an.
A university of applied sciences often offers very specialized degree programs.
For higher education institutions, the preposition 'an' is used. You study 'an der Fachhochschule' (at the university of applied sciences, dative) or apply 'an der Fachhochschule' (to the university of applied sciences, dative).
Mein Bruder studiert Informatik an der Fachhochschule Köln.
My brother is studying computer science at the Cologne University of Applied Sciences.
In everyday language, in texts, and also in official contexts, the abbreviation 'FH' is used very frequently. For example, people talk about an 'FH-Abschluss' (degree from a university of applied sciences).
Er hat seinen Master an einer FH in Österreich gemacht.
He did his master's at a university of applied sciences in Austria.
A key term in connection with universities of applied sciences is the 'Praxissemester' (practical semester). Many degree programs include a mandatory semester in which students work at a company.
Im Praxissemester konnte sie wertvolle Berufserfahrung sammeln.
During the practical semester, she was able to gain valuable professional experience.
university
'Universität' and 'Fachhochschule' are both institutions where you can study. The difference is mainly in their focus. A 'Universität' is more strongly connected with research and academic theory and offers many different subjects. A 'Fachhochschule' is usually more practically oriented and prepares students more directly for specific professions. Today it is often also called a 'Hochschule für Angewandte Wissenschaften' (university of applied sciences). Learners confuse the words because you can earn a degree at both places. For a more theoretical or research-oriented course of study, people are more likely to say 'Universität'; for an application-oriented course of study, 'Fachhochschule' is more likely.
Nach dem Gespräch hat Tom sich für die Fachhochschule entschieden, weil das Studium dort sehr praktisch ist.
After the conversation, Tom decided on the university of applied sciences because the course there is very practical.
Meine Schwester studiert Geschichte an der Universität.
My sister is studying history at the university.