In the German academic system there are two types of institutes of higher education: Fachhochschulen (universities of applied sciences) and universities. While the universities concentrate on academic research, the Universities of Applied Sciences have a more practical point of view. The goal of the universities of applied sciences is to offer practical scientific methods, based on academic theories, to its students. The practical orientation appears among other things in the strong practical background of the professors, all of whom have had working experience outside of the University for at least five years; in small group seminars; and in one or  two required practical semesters for the students. Furthermore the teaching is strongly oriented towards the current demands of the economy. Since the founding of the first universities of applied sciences back in the 1970s, this new type of university has become increasingly popular among students and companies, especially in business and engineering. In total about 1/3 of German students begin their studies in universities of applied sciences. In engineering about 70% and in business about 50% of the students study there.

 

 

	University of Applied Sciences Aschaffenburg

The University of Applied Sciences Aschaffenburg (UAS) was first founded back in 1994 and lessons started in 1995. At the moment approx. 1.400 students are enroled in the following main courses: Business Administration, Business Administration and Law, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering and Mechatronics. In all courses there is a special emphasis on foreign languages and computer skills.

The mission of the UAS is to offer high-quality education: i.e. a sound academic background combined with practical work experience. Upon leaving the UAS, the students will have received the best possible preparation for their future careers. The UAS offers excellent conditions for studying. The whole campus was restored in the late 1990s and now offers a relaxed atmosphere. The lessons take place in small seminars in bright, comfortable rooms. A group of approx. 44 young and motivated professors guarantees a future-orientated education. The excellent student/professor ratio ensures intensive direct contact as well as communication. Moreover, the facilities include a well-equipped library and state-of-the-art laboratories and computer facilities. Every student has access to the World Wide Web and receives his/her own e-mail address for free. The place for social contacts and tasty meals are the canteen and the cafeteria. The students at the UAS are very motivated. The Student Council offers a wide range of activities, from student sports to finding jobs and apartments. The student action group UNEC (University of Applied Sciences Economy Contacts) works on intensifying contacts to (regional) businesses and industries. On their agenda there are workshops, lectures from well-known companies and symposiums. So there are many ways to demonstrate social involvement at the UAS.

 

The young University of Applied Sciences Aschaffenburg wants to establish an international liaison to schools all over the world and to facilitate international exchange and coorperation. Right now there are cooperations with thirteen European universities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aschaffenburg is situated in the north western part of Bavaria. The city has approx. 68,000 inhabitants and is the centre of the Bayerische Untermain (= a Bavarian region situated on the lower Main river) with approx. 370,000 inhabitants.

Due to the close relationship to the Rhine-Main-Area, Aschaffenburg has a vital economic location. In contrast to the Rhine-Main-Area, which is one of the leading locations for financial services in Europe, the economic focus in Aschaffenburg is in the industrial sector. Besides the traditional strength in the textile, chemical and mechanical engineering industries a couple of high-tech companies have set up business in Aschaffenburg.

Aschaffenburg has a very good infrastructure. It is located conveniently on the motorways A3 and A45. The Rhine-Main Airport in Frankfurt can easily be reached in half an hour.

 

 

 

 

 

	The castle Johannisburg

The city of Aschaffenburg is located next to the Main river and near the Spessart Forest. It offers all the advantages and conveniences of an active, mid-size town. With the castle Johannisburg, several churches, museums, parks and lakes there is a lot for the visitor to discover. Moreover the cultural scene is very well-known. There is a theatre, a cabaret, cinemas, concert halls and a lot of pubs. In addition, the recreational areas Spessart and Odenwald are very close and offer a wide range of outdoor activities. To make a long story short: Aschaffenburg has a very high quality of living.

The UAS is located close to the city centre. It can easily be reached by bike, car or by public transport.