Original: At a University of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule), the diploma degree is described as Diplom (FH) and takes mostly four years.
Simplified: At a University of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule), the diploma degree is called a Diplom (FH) and normally takes four years to study and gain work experience. The curriculum of diplom studies at a University of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule) is focused on using (applying) the science.