# Düsseldorf University of Applied Sciences

The Düsseldorf University of Applied Sciences is a Fachhochschule (University of Applied Sciences) with departments for social sciences and cultural studies, technical sciences, architecture, media, design and business education in Düsseldorf with more than 9,000 students. Its foundation was in 1971. It is the second largest University of Applied Sciences in North Rhine-Westphalia, after the Technical University of Cologne.
On 1 May 2015 the name was changed from Fachhochschule Düsseldorf to Hochschule Düsseldorf.

## History

Hochschule Düsseldorf, University of Applied Sciences (HSD), was established on August 1, 1971, through the merger of several renowned regional educational institutions. This consolidation aimed to create a comprehensive institution offering a wide range of applied sciences programs. Over the years, HSD has expanded its academic offerings and facilities, becoming one of the largest universities of applied sciences in North Rhine-Westphalia. In 2015, the institution underwent a rebranding, changing its name from Fachhochschule Düsseldorf to Hochschule Düsseldorf to reflect its broad spectrum of disciplines and its commitment to practical, application-oriented education.

## Mission

Hochschule Düsseldorf (HSD) is committed to providing high-quality, application-oriented education that equips students with the skills and knowledge required to meet the evolving demands of the professional world. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, integrating design, technology, social sciences, and business studies to foster innovative and holistic approaches to problem-solving. HSD values practical experience, encouraging collaboration with industry partners to ensure that academic programs remain relevant and impactful. The institution also promotes internationalization, offering opportunities for students to engage in global perspectives and cross-cultural exchanges. Through these efforts, HSD aims to prepare graduates who are not only proficient in their fields but also socially responsible and adaptable to the challenges of a dynamic global environment.

## List of Departments

* Architecture
* Design
* Electrical Engineering
* Mechanical and Process Engineering
* Media
* Social Sciences and Cultural Studies
* Business Studies
* Education

## Study Programs

Hochschule Düsseldorf (HSD) offers a comprehensive range of study programs across seven faculties, emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical application. The university provides bachelor's and master's degrees designed to prepare students for the demands of the professional world.
Faculty of Architecture:
* Bachelor's Programmes:
** Architecture
* Master's Programmes:
** Architecture
Faculty of Design:
* Bachelor's Programmes:
** Communication Design
** Retail Design
* Master's Programmes:
** Exhibition Design
Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology:
* Bachelor's Programmes:
** Electrical Engineering
** Information Technology
* Master's Programmes:
** Automation and Control
** Communication Engineering
Faculty of Mechanical and Process Engineering:
* Bachelor's Programmes:
** Mechanical Engineering
** Process Engineering
* Master's Programmes:
** Mechanical Engineering
** Process Engineering
Faculty of Media:
* Bachelor's Programmes:
** Audio and Video
** Media Engineering
** Media Informatics
* Master's Programmes:
** Media Informatics
Faculty of Social Sciences and Cultural Studies:
* Bachelor's Programmes:
** Early Childhood Education and Family Studies
** Social Work / Social Pedagogy (Full-Time/Part-Time)
* Master's Programmes:
** Culture, Aesthetics, Media (Full-Time/Part-Time)
** Empowerment Studies (Full-Time/Part-Time)
** Social Work and Pedagogy with a Focus on Psychosocial Counselling
Faculty of Business Studies:
* Bachelor's Programmes:
** Business Administration (Full-Time/Part-Time)
** Communication and Multimedia Management
** International Management
** Taxation 3in1
* Master's Programmes:
** Business Analytics
** Communication, Multimedia and Market Management
Centre for Digitalisation and Digitality (ZDD):
* Bachelor's Programmes:
** Data Science, AI and Intelligent Systems (DAISY)
* Master's Programmes:
** Transforming Digitality
HSD's diverse academic offerings reflect its commitment to interdisciplinary education, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their chosen fields.

## Research

Hochschule Düsseldorf (HSD) is dedicated to advancing applied research across its seven faculties, fostering innovation and practical solutions to contemporary challenges. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating design, technology, social sciences, and business studies to address complex issues. HSD's research initiatives are closely linked with industry and community partners, ensuring that outcomes have real-world applications and contribute to regional development. Through these efforts, HSD aims to bridge the gap between academia and practice, preparing students to become leaders in their respective fields.

## International

Hochschule Düsseldorf (HSD) is committed to fostering an international academic environment, welcoming students from over 100 countries. The university offers a variety of opportunities for students to study abroad, including exchange programs and internships with leading companies around the world.
The Faculty of Design cooperates with over 50 intra- and extra-European partner universities. The 4th semester in the BA programs is designated for students to study abroad, enriching their academic experience with international perspectives. The faculty's international climate is further enhanced by staff members' global contacts and collaborations, welcoming international guests for lectures, workshops, and cooperative projects.
For incoming exchange students, HSD provides comprehensive support through its International Office. This includes guidance on application procedures, course selection, accommodation, and integration into campus life. The university also offers orientation programs to help international students acclimate to their new environment.
Through these initiatives, HSD aims to prepare students for successful careers in a globalized world, fostering cross-cultural understanding and international collaboration.