Karlshochschule International University – “the Karls” for short – is a state-recognized university of applied sciences privately sponsored by the state of Baden-Württemberg with study locations in Karlsruhe, Potsdam and Chemnitz. Since its foundation, the Karls has stood for an innovative, international and individual university education that empowers students for the future (Future Capabilities). Professional training, but also personal development and preparation for social challenges play a role here.
Living internationality – shaping diversity
The Karls is not only international in its aspirations, but also in its everyday life. Students from over 60 countries, courses in English, German and bilingual, a dense network of over 100 partner universities worldwide as well as integrated semesters abroad and international internships characterize the study program. We actively support our international students – from entry to language courses to cultural integration.
At the same time, we offer students from Germany a platform to think and act globally: through regional studies, foreign language teaching, international exchange and an intercultural study environment.
Practical. Personal. Committed.
As a university of applied sciences, our degree courses are strongly practice-oriented: through internship semesters, close cooperation with companies, project work and practice-integrated forms of study. In some degree courses, it is even possible to obtain a skilled worker qualification alongside your studies. This creates a close link between theory and practice – with very good chances of being taken on after graduation.
Small learning groups, individual support from experienced professors with a practical background and a hybrid teaching model (combination of lectures, seminars and tutorials) enable a course of study that can be flexibly adapted to the student’s life situation – whether full-time or part-time.
Education with attitude – career with responsibility
Our degree programs combine business, society, technology and culture in an interdisciplinary way. The focus is not merely on imparting knowledge, but on promoting the ability to reflect, innovate and think critically. We believe in diversity, co-creation and responsibility – individually, entrepreneurially and socially.
At Karls, we promote personalities. Our understanding of education is based on the concept of future capabilities – the ability not only to react to change, but to actively shape it. Our graduates are ready to make their way in complex, uncertain environments – whether in medium-sized companies, international organizations, the cultural sector, start-ups or completely new areas.
Individual paths to university – and beyond
Whether you have a high school diploma, university entrance qualification, vocational qualification or international school-leaving certificate – Karls offers a variety of access routes and accompanies students every step of the way. In addition to Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, we also offer study models that combine professional qualifications and academic training.
Our students learn to navigate complex, uncertain environments, recognize opportunities, act wisely and take responsibility – for themselves, for others, for organizations and for society. They acquire professional expertise and interdisciplinary skills such as resilience, innovation, teamwork and the ability to reflect. After completing their studies, they are not only ready to start their careers, but also for further education – be it a Master’s degree, a doctorate or lifelong learning. And we accompany them – step by step.
Studies at the Karls. Facts and highlights briefly checked.
- Bachelor of Arts in 6 semesters
- Master of Arts in 4 semesters
- State-recognized with system accreditation
- Top position in the CHE ranking
- International, colorful and active atmosphere
- English-language and German-language study programs
- Semester abroad and internship semester (Bachelor)
- Real company projects
- Small learning groups and interactive teaching
- Individual support from professors
- Focus on personal development
For all study programs, the monthly tuition fee (from the start of the winter semester 2025/26) is € 550 for EU countries and € 750 for non-EU countries.
Voices from the Karls
This program provides a unique opportunity to refresh my knowledge and get familiar with the Karls early on. The positive experiences I’ve made in the PreMaster confirm my decision to do my Master’s here 100 %!
Elena
I believe that at Karlshochschule I got to understand what role management plays in the cultural field and how tremendous it is in enabling artistic performance.
Friedemann Bauknecht
When I first thought of International Relations, I used to think of a very theoretical approach. But here at Karls that is not the only thing we do. The focus lies on team work and critical thinking, learning by doing and questioning everything in the process.
Svenja
In today’s digitized world we are incredibly sensitive to media content and the media makers and managers need an international perspective on the subject.
Nico
Coming from a multicultural background, I find studying, thinking and creating in an environment as diverse as Karlshochschule to be a real blessing. I’ve never been one to fall when I can jump and at a place like the Karls you certainly learn how to jump high.
Oliver
Everything here is so international and it’s like you can experience the whole world.
Aakash
