Katholische Hochschule Freiburg, staatlich anerkannte Hochschule - Catholic University of Applied Sciences
Baden-Württemberg, Germany
About Katholische Hochschule Freiburg, staatlich anerkannte Hochsc
Katholische Hochschule Freiburg (KH Freiburg) is a state-recognised University of Applied Sciences under Catholic Church sponsorship, founded in 1971. It describes itself as Baden-Württemberg's largest university specialising in social sciences and healthcare. Around 1,900 students study here in small learning groups with a high staff-to-student ratio.
The university offers Bachelor's and Master's degrees across social work, nursing science, inclusive/special education, healthcare management, applied theology, art therapy, and gerontology. All degree programmes are taught in German. Research is conducted through the Institut für Angewandte Forschung (IAF), focusing on education and inclusion, healthcare services research, and religion and ethics.
KH Freiburg cooperates with over 500 regional practice institutions and maintains partnerships with more than 60 universities and research institutes across 35 countries. Religious affiliation is not required for admission.
Key facts
- Founded
- 1971
- Students
- 1,900
Baden-Württemberg's largest specialist university for social sciences and healthcare
State-recognised, church-sponsored institution — same Studienbeitrag for all nationalities (no non-EU surcharge)
Small learning groups with high lecturer-to-student ratio and intensive mentoring
Over 500 regional practice-placement partners integrating theory and professional practice
More than 60 international partner universities across 35 countries; annual International Week
Member of CELIS (European Campus for Social Work) and holds EFQM quality recognition
Admissions & costs
Tuition & fees
KH Freiburg is a state-recognised but church-sponsored private institution, not funded by the state of Baden-Württemberg. Bachelor programmes charge a Studienbeitrag of €280 per semester, plus an administrative fee (€48 on re-registration), Studierendenwerk contribution (€66.50), and semester ticket (€21), giving a typical re-registration total of approximately €415.50 per semester. The Baden-Württemberg €1,500/semester surcharge for non-EU students applies to state universities; as a private institution KH Freiburg does not charge this surcharge — all students pay the same Studienbeitrag structure. Master programmes carry a separate programme fee: e.g. M.A. Management und Führungskompetenz €8,790 total (30 monthly instalments of €293), M.A. Klinische Heilpädagogik €6,750 total, M.A. Kunsttherapie €8,490 total (18 instalments of €210), M.A. Angewandte Gerontologie €3,120 total. Fee schedule valid from WS 2026/27 (issued 04.03.2026).
Admission requirements
International applicants must hold a recognised higher education entrance qualification. Non-EU applicants are required to submit their documents to Studienkolleg Konstanz for credential verification and grade assignment before applying to KH Freiburg directly. German language proficiency is mandatory: DSH level 2 or TestDaF with an average of at least level 4 across all four subtests (all subtests must be passed). EU applicants may apply directly online. An orientation test (Eignungstest) participation is required for all applicants. APS certificate is required for applicants whose school qualifications were obtained in India, China, or Vietnam, as this is a standard German requirement. Applications for Bachelor programmes open from 15 March for the following Winter Semester. Master programmes open from 1 June for the following Summer Semester.
Application deadlines
Bachelor programmes: applications open 15 March for the Winter Semester intake. Master programmes: applications open 1 June for the Summer Semester intake. Specific closing dates were not published on the official site at time of review — contact [email protected] for current cut-off dates.
Languages of instruction
All degree programmes are taught in German. The university website and some international office materials are available in English.
Campuses & locations
Main campus at Karlstraße 63, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau
Satellite location offering selected degree programmes
Living in Baden-Württemberg
Freiburg im Breisgau is a mid-sized city of around 230,000 inhabitants in the south-west corner of Germany, bordering France and Switzerland. It sits at the edge of the Black Forest and is known for its sunny climate, cycling culture, and the medieval Münster cathedral. The city has a vibrant student population across multiple institutions and offers good public transport connections to Basel, Strasbourg, and Stuttgart.
Student life & support
KH Freiburg is a small, community-oriented campus. Students benefit from close contact with lecturers and a practice-integrated curriculum supported by partnerships with over 500 social-work and healthcare organisations in the region. The university organises an annual International Week (themed discussions on social inclusion and global issues). Exchange and study-abroad opportunities are available through the International Office and more than 60 partner universities in 35 countries. The Studierendenwerk Freiburg provides student housing and catering services. The university estimates a monthly living cost of approximately €1,000 in Freiburg.
11
Accredited Programmes
6
Bachelor/Bakkalaureus
5
Master
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