# West Coast University of Applied Sciences

The FH Westküste University of Applied Sciences (German Fachhochschule Westküste) is a vocational university of higher education and applied research located in the city of Heide in the Federal State of Schleswig-Holstein. With an enrollment of approximately 1,980 students as of 2019, the university offers a range of bachelor's and master's programs across two main faculties: the Faculty of Technology and the Faculty of Business Studies.
The university emphasizes applied research and maintains partnerships with over 20 institutions worldwide, fostering a global perspective that benefits both students and the surrounding West Coast region.
The campus, located in the eastern part of Heide, offers modern facilities to support both academic and extracurricular activities, contributing to a comprehensive educational experience.

## The FH Westküste of Applied Sciences

The FH Westküste University of Applied Sciences is dedicated to fostering the transfer of academic knowledge to enhance the competitiveness of businesses and institutions in western Schleswig-Holstein. This mission is achieved through a mutual exchange with the business community, particularly within the Lower Elbe-West Coast region. The university emphasizes areas such as Management and Tourism in its Commercial Faculty, and Automation and Electronics in its Technical Faculty. Additionally, it aims to expand interdisciplinary programs like Management and Technology to adapt to evolving industry needs.

## History

In 1985, regional businesses in Dithmarschen and Nord Friesland, under the Flensburg Chamber of Commerce, proposed establishing a branch of the Flensburg University of Applied Sciences on Germany's West Coast. By 1991, the state government approved the creation of a University of Applied Sciences in Heide, aiming for 1,000 study places, with an initial 500. The university commenced its first academic year on September 20, 1993, with 66 students in Business Administration, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering, operating from rented facilities. In September 2000, it moved to a newly constructed campus at Fritz-Thiedemann-Ring 20. Over the years, the university expanded its programs, introducing courses like Management and Technology, International Tourism Management, and Economics and Law. Notably, it was the first in the state to transition to Bachelor's and Master's degree structures. By the winter semester of 2014/15, enrollment had surpassed 1,500 students.

## Study Programs

FH Westküste University of Applied Sciences offers a diverse range of study programs designed to equip students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge across various disciplines. The university's curriculum is structured to meet the demands of the modern job market, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their professional careers.
Bachelor’s Programs
* Business Administration (B.A.): This program provides a comprehensive understanding of business operations, preparing students for roles in management, finance, and marketing.
* Business Administration - Trial Model (B.A.): Combining academic studies with practical training, this model offers students hands-on experience alongside theoretical learning.
* Real Estate Business Studies (B.A.): Focused on the real estate industry, this course covers property management, valuation, and investment strategies.
* Electronics and Information Technology (B.Sc.): Students gain knowledge in electronic systems and IT, preparing them for careers in technology development and application.
* International Tourism Management (B.A.): This program explores global tourism dynamics, equipping students with skills for international tourism planning and management.
* Management and Technology (B.Sc.): Integrating business management principles with technological expertise, this course prepares students for leadership roles in tech-driven industries.
* Green Building Systems (B.Eng.): Focusing on sustainable building technologies, students learn about energy-efficient design and environmental impact reduction.
* Business Psychology (B.A.): This interdisciplinary program combines psychology and business studies to understand human behavior in organizational settings.
* Economics and Law (LL.B.): Offering a blend of economic theory and legal studies, this course prepares students for careers at the intersection of these fields.
Master’s Programs
* Automation Technology (M.Sc.): Advanced study in automation, focusing on modern control systems and their applications in various industries.
* Industrial Engineering – Digital Business Administration (M.Sc.): This program merges industrial engineering with digital business strategies, preparing students for the evolving digital landscape.
* Green Energy (M.Sc.): Concentrating on renewable energy sources, students explore sustainable energy production and management.
* International Tourism Management (M.A.): An in-depth look at global tourism trends, this course prepares graduates for leadership roles in the tourism sector.
* Micro-electronic Systems (M.Sc.): Focusing on the design and application of micro-electronic devices, students engage with cutting-edge technology in this field.
* Business Psychology (M.Sc.): Building on undergraduate studies, this program delves deeper into psychological principles applied within business contexts.
* Business Studies, Media & Psychology (M.A.): An interdisciplinary course that explores the connections between business, media, and psychology, offered as an extra-occupational online program.

## Research Institutes

FH Westküste University of Applied Sciences is home to several research institutes that focus on applied research and knowledge transfer, aiming to enhance the competitiveness of businesses and institutions in western Schleswig-Holstein and beyond.
German Institute for Tourism Research
Established in 2006 as the Institute for Management and Tourism, it was rebranded in 2020 to reflect its national prominence. The institute conducts interdisciplinary research on travel behavior, the impacts of tourism, and strategic development for destinations and institutions. By integrating insights from various disciplines, it provides comprehensive analyses and promotes the exchange between science, business, and society, ensuring practical benefits for the tourism sector.
Institute "regioMAR"
The Institute for Regional Marketing Research and Consulting (regioMAR) focuses on regional marketing strategies and research. It aims to develop innovative models and methods for business operations, with a particular emphasis on tourism, marketing, and personnel management. Through funded research projects, studies, and collaborations with industry partners, regioMAR contributes to the economic development of the region.
Institute "WinHR"
The West Coast Institute for Human Resource Management (WinHR) specializes in research and consulting in the field of human resources. It integrates knowledge of human behavior in various contexts to develop innovative models and methods for business operations. WinHR's activities include funded research projects, studies, and knowledge transfer through lectures, workshops, and publications, all aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of companies and institutions.

## Campus Life

FH Westküste University of Applied Sciences offers a dynamic campus environment with various services to support students' academic and personal growth.
* Library: A comprehensive resource center providing access to a wide range of academic materials and study spaces.
* Cafeteria: Offers diverse meal options, serving as a hub for students to dine and connect.
* Student Organizations: Encourages involvement in various clubs and societies, fostering community engagement and personal development.
* Aid and Advice: Provides support services, including counseling and academic advising, to assist students in navigating their university experience.
* IT Services: Ensures access to necessary technological resources and support for academic activities.

## International

Student Exchange Program
The university's International Office facilitates exchange opportunities for students seeking to broaden their academic and cultural horizons. For incoming students, FH Westküste provides a selection of courses taught in English each semester, along with German language courses to enhance integration. Prospective exchange students are encouraged to consult the course catalogue and reach out to the International Office for guidance.
Outgoing students from FH Westküste have the opportunity to study abroad at partner universities through the Erasmus+ program. The International Office offers information sessions and resources to assist in planning and applying for these exchange semesters. Students are advised to attend these sessions and utilize available materials to ensure a successful application process.
The Erasmus+ program supports academic exchanges between European universities, promoting digitalization, sustainability, and inclusivity. FH Westküste participates in Erasmus+, enabling students to study or intern abroad with potential financial support. Detailed information about the program and application procedures is available through the university's International Office.
Partner Universities
FH Westküste University of Applied Sciences maintains a network of partner universities worldwide, facilitating student and staff exchanges as well as collaborative initiatives. These partnerships span various countries, including Argentina, Australia, Austria, Colombia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Greece, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This global network enriches the academic experience by offering diverse perspectives and opportunities for cross-cultural engagement.