university
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university
An institution for higher education and research where academic degrees are awarded in various subjects.
Sie hat an der Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Geschichte studiert.
She studied history at Humboldt University in Berlin.
The preposition 'an' is used to express that someone is enrolled at a university or works there. The preposition 'in', on the other hand, describes being physically inside the building.
Mein Bruder studiert Medizin an der Universität Heidelberg.
My brother studies medicine at Heidelberg University.
In everyday and spoken language, 'Universität' (university) is very often shortened to 'Uni'. This short form is widespread and is used in most informal contexts.
Ich treffe meine Freunde nachher in der Mensa der Uni.
I'm meeting my friends later in the university cafeteria.
When referring to the institution, 'Universität' (university) is often combined with verbs like 'studieren' (to study), 'lehren' (to teach), 'forschen' (to do research), or 'sich einschreiben' (to enroll).
Viele junge Menschen wollen an einer renommierten Universität studieren.
Many young people want to study at a prestigious university.
school
'die Schule' and 'die Universität' are both places of learning, but they belong to different areas of education. Children and young people normally go to 'Schule'. Adults study at a 'Universität' after finishing school and can earn academic degrees there. Both words can also refer to the building or campus. Learners sometimes confuse them because some languages use one word for several types of educational institutions. In German, you say 'Schule' for children and 'Universität', or 'Uni' for short, for university studies.
Nach dem Abitur möchte Paul an der Universität Biologie studieren.
After finishing secondary school, Paul wants to study biology at university.
Meine Tochter geht jeden Morgen mit dem Bus zur Schule.
My daughter takes the bus to school every morning.