Why study at Humboldt?
The Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin is one of the most prestigious universities not only in Germany, but in Europe. It has a world class reputation in the humanities, social sciences and the law.
Originally known simply as the University of Berlin, it was given its current name in 1949. It is named after both its founder, Wilhelm von Humboldt, and his brother, the esteemed naturalist and alumnus of the institution, Alexander von Humboldt.
The institution's academic clout is evidenced by the fact that it has educated no fewer than 29 Nobel prizewinners, including Theodor Mommsen, who won the prize for for literature in 1902; Max Born, who won the prize for physics in 1954 and Wassily Leontief who won the prize for economics in 1973.
Among the distinguished alumni of Humboldt University of Berlin are the philosophers Walter Benjamin and G.W.F. Hegel, theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and psychoanalyst Karen Horney. The university also counts former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet and civil rights leader W. E. B. Du Bois among its notable graduates. Composer Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy studied here and Albert Einstein was a professor at the university.
In 2006, the federal government's German Universities Excellence Initiative began allocating additional funding to institutions that proved they were leaders in science and research. In 2012, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, was one of 11 institutions to receive this honor, enhancing its reputation as one of the country's elite universities.
The Faculty of Law
The Faculty of Law at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, founded in 1810, is one of Europe’s most prestigious law schools, renowned for its rigorous academic programs and influential research. It offers a wide range of courses, from undergraduate to doctoral studies, and specializes in areas like constitutional, international, civil, and criminal law, as well as interdisciplinary fields such as legal philosophy and human rights law.
Throughout its history, the faculty has been home to prominent legal scholars, including Friedrich Carl von Savigny, a founding figure of the Historical School of Law, who advanced system thinking in private law and introduced the concept of private international law; Ernst Rabel, a pioneer in global codification and comparative law, particularly in sales law; and Franz von Liszt, who established a modern criminological perspective on crime and criminal law. Its global reputation is further reflected in its international collaborations and diverse student body.
The Faculty of Law has maintained its position as a leader in legal education, bolstered by its participation in the German Universities Excellence Initiative. Many of its alumni have gone on to become influential jurists, politicians, and academics, further enhancing its legacy as a premier legal institution.
City of Berlin
Studying in Berlin offers an unparalleled academic and cultural experience in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. As the capital of Germany, Berlin is a hub of intellectual, political, and artistic life, making it an ideal place for students seeking a dynamic and inspiring environment.
Berlin is home to some of Germany’s top universities, including Humboldt-Universität, Freie Universität, and Technische Universität, all known for their world-class programs and cutting-edge research. Students benefit from access to leading academics, interdisciplinary programs, and strong connections to industries and institutions across Europe. The city’s international character also ensures a diverse and welcoming student body, with numerous programs offered in English.
Beyond academics, Berlin’s rich history, from its pivotal role in European politics to its vibrant cultural scene, provides endless opportunities for exploration and learning. Students can immerse themselves in world-class museums, historic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall, as well as an exciting arts and nightlife scene. The city's relatively low cost of living, extensive public transportation network, and numerous student discounts make it an affordable option compared to other major European cities. With its blend of academic excellence, cultural richness, and vibrant urban life, Berlin offers a unique and enriching environment for students from around the world.