Environmental Engineering (BEng) Hof University of Applied Sciences

The language of instruction is English, ensuring accessibility for international students.

With intensive mandatory German language courses in semesters one through four, students reach a German language level of B2 to support integration and career opportunities in German-speaking environments.

Students proficient in German can pursue additional key qualifications.

This programme qualifies students for careers in environmental technology and engineering, with a focus on sustainability and the digital transformation of society. Graduates develop skills and knowledge in:

• Fundamentals of engineering and natural sciences
• Understanding natural cycles (water, soil, air), energy systems, and their interaction with society and industry
• Circular economy principles and energy efficiency in environmental systems and buildings
• Methods for analysing and implementing environmental science findings and projects
• Developing innovative solutions for environmental engineering challenges using cutting-edge tools and technologies
• German language skills (level B2) at graduation

In addition, you benefit from…

• A strong foundation in digital technologies for effective and efficient project implementation
• Advanced communication and collaboration skills to work in interdisciplinary and international teams
• The ability to evaluate solutions from ecological, economic, and social sustainability perspectives

Career perspectives

Environmental engineers are in high demand to address critical global challenges. Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles, including:

• Environmental Engineer
• Project Manager in Water and Energy Systems
• Sustainability Consultant
• Research Scientist in Environmental Technologies
• Circular Economy Specialist

The international orientation of the programme also opens doors to global markets and advanced studies in specialised Master’s programmes.

The Bachelor's programme spans seven semesters, with a blend of theoretical and practical components. 

First semester: flexible and online
Designed for maximum flexibility and international accessibility, the programme begins with an online first semester, allowing students to start their studies from anywhere in the world. However, please note that the exams for the first semester are mandatory and must be taken on-site at Hof University during the first two weeks of March. Taking these exams is required to progress to the second semester.

Second though sixth semester: on-site studies in Hof

Seventh semester: mandatory internship in industry

15 April to 31 May

If you have acquired your university entrance certificate abroad, it has to be assessed by uni-assist before you send it to Hof University. We advise you to send your documents to uni-assist at least four weeks before the application deadline at Hof University.

The Bachelor's programme in Environmental Engineering combines foundational knowledge, practice-oriented modules, and real-world application.

Semester one and two: Fundamentals
Focus on fundamentals such as mathematics, mechanics, computer science, materials science, and project management. International students receive intensive mandatory German language training.

Semester three and four: Specialisations I
Core specialisations are in thermodynamics, environmental chemistry, reaction technology, microbiology, environmental toxicology, tap water treatment, hydrology, and environmental economics. International students receive mandatory German language training.

Semester five and six: Specialisations II
Specialisation in advanced topics, including hydraulics and modelling, environmental analysis, wastewater treatment, circular economy, plus five elective modules for tailored expertise

Semester seven: Internship semester and Bachelor's thesis
A compulsory practical phase/internship (one semester) and Bachelor's thesis, often in collaboration with industrial partners, provide hands-on experience with real engineering challenges.

A mandatory internship in industry in the seventh semester allows you to gain hands-on experience in real-world environments.

No tuition fees

Administrative fee of approx. 150 EUR per semester

The cost of living in the city of Hof is moderate compared to both other European countries and bigger cities in Germany. On average, living expenses for a student range between 800 and 1,000 EUR per month in total.

The following is an approximate cost calculation of expenditures per month:

• accommodation: 350 to 550 EUR
• mandatory health insurance: about 120 EUR
• food and personal expenditures: at least 350 EUR

• General higher education entrance qualification or subject-linked university entrance qualification, university of applied sciences entrance qualification or professional qualification
• If you are not sure about your university entrance qualification, please check uni-assist and the DAAD database.

You need to prove your proficiency in English. This can be done with either of the following:

• TOEFL minimum 90
• IELTS 6.5 or above

In addition: German language skills, proven by official test score documents – minimum level A1

15 April to 31 May

If you have acquired your university entrance certificate abroad, it has to be assessed by uni-assist before you send it to Hof University. We advise you to send your documents to uni-assist at least four weeks before the application deadline at Hof University.

No

The Housing Office supports international students in finding appropriate accommodation.

Rent for a single student room is approx. 350 to 550 EUR. Rent for a private one-room apartment for one tenant or for a couple is more than 550 EUR. We also have a limited number of double rooms for friends that cost about 250 to 320 EUR per person. Beside the rent, there are additional costs for water, energy, broadcast fee, and Internet.

For a full overview of the practical issues related to living in Hof and our support services for international students, please have a look at the website of our Welcome Service and Housing Office.

The Career Service team at Hof University offers you a wide range of career preparation and orientation services, including workshops, company excursions, and job fairs. We will prepare you for the German labour market by providing you with specific information, counselling, and qualifications. Thus, you will be able to start your individual career as an intern and as a graduate.

We know that adjusting to your new life in Germany is an adventure that is both exciting and challenging. There is no need to be scared – we are here to help you!

At Hof University, we are proud of our warm welcome culture and offer numerous services for our international students. Our team will assist you in all aspects of your stay in Hof. We will help you find the right academic programme and language courses and support you in organising all formalities such as visas, residency, insurance, and banking.

Prior to the start of each semester, we organise an orientation period for our new international students. With the expert assistance from our motivated team, you will smoothly settle into your new personal and academic environment. Additionally, our International Student Network, a group of motivated students, will help you feel at home by organising social activities.

Studying at Hof University – your benefits at a glance

• first-class, practice-oriented education focused on employability
• friendly and open-minded study environment, especially for international students
• extensive personal support for international students from the Welcome Service, International Office, and Career Service
• assistance in finding accommodation in Hof
• orientation week before the start of the studies
• career-building activities, such as intercultural trainings, field trips, and company visits

About Hof University

Founded in 1994, Hof University offers a very attractive study environment with its modern architecture and its state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and dormitories. You will receive a first-class, hands-on education here. As a practice-oriented university of applied sciences with integrated internships in all programmes, the employability of our graduates is the main focus of our teaching.

Our ranking in the renowned StudyCheck Internet portal reflects this: in both 2023 and 2024, Hof University was named the most popular university in Germany and continues to receive top marks for its teaching.

We offer more than 40 modern Bachelor's and Master's programmes in business, computer science, and engineering as well as in interdisciplinary and innovative sciences. Students with at least one year of professional experience find exciting further education opportunities completely in the English language at Hof University Graduate School.

Strong practice orientation

All professors have a strong academic background as well as practical experience in industry. Teaching is based on innovative methods aimed at imparting application-oriented knowledge (e.g. projects with industry, site visits, involvement of company representatives). As a result, our graduates are ideally prepared for national and international labour markets.

Intensive personal support

We are known for our friendly study atmosphere. An excellent student-to-lecturer ratio allows for frequent and personal contact between students and professors and an active exchange of ideas. Students receive intensive personal support during their studies and benefit from numerous services, such as orientation sessions, social integration events, and housing support.

The outlook of the university is extremely international, with more than 130 partner universities all over the world. More than 40 percent of students come from abroad, creating a truly multinational atmosphere.

Applied research

The university's six research institutes focus on information systems, biopolymers, materials science, sustainable water systems, hydrogen and energy management, and organisational research. The guiding principles of our research are practice-orientation, internationalisation, and resource efficiency (focusing on indoor climate systems / water).

Students who are interested in starting a business can find advice and support at Einstein1, the digital business incubator on campus of Hof University.

Hof is a medium-sized town located at the top of Bavaria and in the heart of Europe, right in the middle of Berlin, Munich, and Prague. Hof has a population of about 50,000 and is an appealing and safe university town with plenty of leisure activities. To relax and unwind, there are numerous bars, cinemas, an orchestra, a theatre, a landscaped park called Theresienstein, and a beautiful lake – the Untreusee. Hof is also known for the International Hof Film Festival, which is one of the most important German film festivals.

The region around Hof has the second-highest industrial density in all of Europe, mainly specialising in manufacturing machinery and plastic (automobile) parts. The companies are mostly small and medium-sized businesses, the so-called hidden champions, and they provide ample opportunities for internships and entry jobs.

The city of Hof is surrounded by beautiful nature. It is located between the low mountain regions of the Fichtelgebirge and the Franconian Forest on the banks of the Saale River. You will find excellent possibilities for all outdoor sporting activities such as cycling, hiking, climbing, and skiing.