Paderborn University

Paderborn University is one of the mid-sized universities in Germany with a strong focus on research and transfer. Our five faculties - Arts and Humanities, Business Administration and Economics, Mechanical Engineering, Natural Sciences, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering and Mathematics - offer 70 study programmes. In addition, there are about 166 subject combinations in the field of teacher training.

Within our key research areas, Paderborn University has made a name for itself with internationally recognised excellence in research. While always keeping society's needs in mind, scientists at Paderborn University are working on the technologies of the future. Research at Paderborn University is characterised by the development of sustainable solutions for the pressing challenges of our time. Cooperations with other universities, companies, and research associations - nationally and internationally - contribute to our University's excellent networks and infrastructure.

„Paderborn University is young and dynamic. Numerous excellent research projects, outstanding degree programmes and proven transfer structures set us apart. The university is ideally located in an economically strong region and offers young people opportunities that are rarely found anywhere else.”

Prof. Dr. Birgitt Riegraf
Prof. Dr. Birgitt Riegraf,
President of Paderborn University

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17159
students
Date: November 2023
65.5 MM €
in third-party funding
Date: December 2023
300 +
spin-offs from our university
Date: June 2023

News

20.12.2024

Quantum sounds: Paderborn University doctoral candidate makes light particles sound with a special composition

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20.12.2024

Rethinking education: start-ups from Paderborn University's start-up centre create added value for society

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19.12.2024

International recognition: Paderborn Belgium Centre becomes member of research network

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18.12.2024

Car park temporarily closed

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18.12.2024

8,475 euros for a good cause

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17.12.2024

Respectful cooperation is the basis of the university

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16.12.2024

New working group researches the topic of "green skills" among public sector actors

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16.12.2024

Call for proposals: Doctoral scholarships 2025 at Paderborn University

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16.12.2024

The German start-up scene meets in Paderborn

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13.12.2024

DART junior research group investigates the use of artificial intelligence in control engineering

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13.12.2024

Paderborn University honours graduates at graduation ceremonies

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12.12.2024

Arming SMEs against cybercrime: focus on NIS-2-compliant solutions

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Events

07.01.2025

Between contempt and mindfulness: round table event on the ethics of pop culture by the "C:POP" research centre

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07.01.2025 - 07.01.2025

Lecture series "News from research in the history of the 19th to 21st century"

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08.01.2025 - 08.01.2025

Spotlight on teaching - impulses and exchange for contemporary university teaching

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08.01.2025

Lecture Series "Canon and Culture: Objects of Literary Studies"

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08.01.2025 - 08.01.2025

Interdisciplinary lecture series "Cultural Perspectives on Democracy“

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08.01.2025

"ZeKK live" - 45 minutes with Prof. em. Dr Katharina von Kellenbach

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More events

Study programmes, Teaching and PAUL

The range of courses offered at Paderborn University is very diverse. With study programmes that are, to date, unique in Germany, we provide offers that are just as exceptional as our students. Many study programmes also have international profiles – which means that our graduates make a good impression all over the world.

Teaching at Paderborn University is defined by quality – as well as by the dedication and motivation of our academics.

Our campus management system PAUL guides you through your studies and teaching.

Find a suitable degree programme

We offer numerous Bachelor's and Master's degree programmes with various subject combinations. Discover our attractive range of degree programmes and find the right option for your future. Curious?

Explore our degree programmes now

A scientist sits behind an experimental apparatus that is out of focus in the foreground and follows the course of the experiment.

Research

Fundamental, application-oriented, interdisciplinary and internationally oriented: research at Paderborn University is a team effort dedicated to the great questions of the future. We are building sustainable values and innovations, making them accessible to society, business, and industry.

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Transfer

At Paderborn University, researchers and students work together in numerous collaborations with partners in business, society, politics, and culture. We create space for open discourse and pave the way for innovative ideas. Our University has one of the highest spin-off rates in the state of North-Rhine Westphalia.

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A rotating globe is placed on the floor of the spacious entrance area of Paderborn University. In the background, a part of Building I can be seen out of focus.

International

A strong network around the globe: we want to tackle societal challenges in cooperation with international partners. In order to advance our internationalisation, we at Paderborn University make an effort to focus on global orientation and create a campus that provides space for intercultural encounters.

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Key topics in research

Quantum Research

Quantum Research

For many years, the study of the smallest particles of light has been one of the key research areas of Paderborn University. Recognized experts conduct excellent fundamental research in order to shape the future through concrete applications. Thus, they are decisively advancing quantum research in Germany and beyond.

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Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence has long been a part of our lives. At Paderborn University, academics from various disciplines are researching the fundamentals and effects of AI in order to make human-machine interaction both useful and transparent for society.

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High Performance Computing

The "Noctua 2" supercomputer is the heart of Paderborn University's high-performance computing centre. Our scientists use high-performance computing to set international standards in computer systems research. Researchers throughout Germany benefit from the computing capacities to conduct science at the highest level.

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Working at Paderborn University

Paderborn University employs around 2,600 people from over 20 different nationalities in a lively working environment. We offer exciting employment opportunities, support for your personal development, and an inclusive working culture. Become part of a dynamic, international team!

 

Certificates

Audit Family-Friendly University

On 22 November 2005, Paderborn University underwent the audit family-friendly university and was awarded a certificate as the first university in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

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Audit Diversity-Friendly University

On 15 March 2023, berufundfamilie’s board of trustees awarded Paderborn University with the audit certificate.

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TOTAL E-QUALITY

Paderborn University received the TOTAL E-QUALITY award for its equal opportunities-oriented personnel policy for the first time in 2009.

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Diversity Charter & Association

In October 2011, Paderborn University signed the Diversity Charter.

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Charter for the Reconciliation of Career and Care

In April 2023, Paderborn University signed the Charter for reconciliation of career and care.

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HRK-Audit Internationalisation of Universities

Paderborn University has successfully completed the HRK-Audit Internationalisation of Universities on 27 November 2023.

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DHV seal of approval for fair and transparent appointment negotiations

Paderborn University was awarded the DHV seal of approval for fair and transparent appointment negotiations by the German Association of University Professors and Lecturers (DHV) on 1 June 2024.)

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[Translate to English:] Logo Zertifikat „audit familiengerechte hochschule“
Logo "audit vielfaltgerechte hochschule" certificate
Logo of the "TOTAL E-QUALITY" initiative
Logo of the "Charter of Diversity" voluntary commitment
Charter on Reconciliation of Work and Care
HRK-Audit