Top Universities in Hamburg for International Students to Pursue a Master's Degree

Top Universities in Hamburg to pursue a Master's for International Students

Hamburg, Germany’s port city. It is a hub for international students seeking high-quality education, cultural diversity, and career opportunities. With its strong economy, cutting-edge research facilities, and welcoming atmosphere, Hamburg is an ideal destination for pursuing a master’s degree.

In this post, we'll present a list of the top universities in Hamburg for international students, highlighting their academic excellence, English-taught programs, and support for global scholars.

1. University of Hamburg (Universität Hamburg)

The University of Hamburg is one of Germany’s largest and most prestigious institutions, ranked among the top 200 universities globally (QS World University Rankings 2025). It offers a wide range of master’s programs, many of which are taught in English, making it highly attractive for international students.

Why Choose It?

Over 170 master’s programs, including English-taught options in fields like International Business, Economics, and Molecular Biology.

Strong research focus with interdisciplinary centers like the Hamburg Centre for Ultrafast Imaging.
Affordable tuition: No tuition fees for most programs, only a semester contribution (~€340).
Dedicated International Office offering visa support, orientation programs, and career services.

Popular English-Taught Master’s Programs:

M.Sc. in Integrated Climate System Sciences, M.A. in International Business and Sustainability, and M.Sc. in Physics.

International Student Support

Buddy programs pair new students with locals.
German language courses for non-native speakers.
Housing assistance through Studierendenwerk Hamburg.

Website: www.uni-hamburg.de/en

2. Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH)

TUHH is renowned for its engineering and technology programs, emphasizing innovation and practical training. It’s a top choice for international students pursuing technical master’s degrees due to its industry connections and English-taught courses.

Why Choose It?

English-taught master’s programs in disciplines like Mechanical Engineering, Data Science, and Environmental Engineering.
Strong ties with Hamburg’s tech and maritime industries, offering internship and job opportunities.
Modern campus with state-of-the-art labs and research facilities.
There are no tuition fees, only a semester contribution (~€330).

Popular English-Taught Master’s Programs:

M.Sc. in Data Science, M.Sc. in Global Innovation Management, and M.Sc. in Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering.

International Student Support:

International Academic Advisors for personalized guidance.
Career Center with job fairs and networking events.
Free German language courses and intercultural workshops.

Website: www.tuhh.de

3. Hamburg University of Applied Sciences (HAW Hamburg)

HAW Hamburg is a leading university of applied sciences known for its practice-oriented education and diverse student body. It’s an excellent option for international students seeking master’s degrees with a focus on real-world applications.

Why Choose It?

English-taught master’s programs in fields like Public Health, Design, and Renewable Energy.
Small class sizes for personalized learning.
Strong emphasis on employability with mandatory internships in many programs.
Affordable: No tuition fees, only a semester contribution (~€340).

Popular English-Taught Master’s Programs:

M.Sc. in Renewable Energy Systems
M.P.H. in Public Health
M.A. in Design

International Student Support:

International Office with visa and residence permit assistance.
Welcome Week for new international students.
Career services with job placement support.

Website: www.haw-hamburg.de/en

4. HafenCity University Hamburg (HCU)

HCU is a specialized university focusing on architecture, urban planning, and civil engineering. It’s perfect for international students interested in urban development and sustainable design, with a unique interdisciplinary approach.

Why Choose It?

English-taught master’s programs tailored to global urban challenges.
Located in Hamburg’s innovative HafenCity district, offering hands-on learning in a dynamic urban environment.
Collaborative projects with international universities and organizations.
No tuition fees, only a semester contribution (~€340).

Popular English-Taught Master’s Programs:

M.Sc. in Urban Planning, M.Sc. in Resource Efficiency in Architecture and Planning.

International Student Support:

International Office providing application and visa guidance.
Housing support through partnerships with local providers.
Networking events with industry professionals.

Website: www.hcu-hamburg.de

5. Bucerius Law School

For international students pursuing a master’s in law, Bucerius Law School is a top-tier private institution known for its global reputation and intensive programs. It’s particularly appealing for those interested in international business law.

Why Choose It?

Offers the Master of Law and Business (MLB), a unique interdisciplinary program taught entirely in English.
Small cohort sizes for individualized attention.
Strong alumni network and partnerships with global law firms.
Tuition fees: ~€25,000 for the MLB program, with scholarships available.

Popular English-Taught Master’s Program:

Master of Law and Business (MLB)

International Student Support:

Dedicated support for visa applications and relocation.
Career services with internship and job placement opportunities.
Language courses and cultural integration programs.

Website: www.law-school.de

To sum up, Hamburg's universities offer an exceptional blend of academic excellence, affordability, and an international perspective, making them perfect for international students seeking master’s degrees. Whether your passion lies in engineering, urban planning, or business law, Hamburg provides top-tier education in a vibrant, thriving city.

Explore the free city guide to dive deep into all that Hamburg has to offer. Sign up for our budget-friendly course to secure your spot at your dream university.

Top Universities in Hamburg to pursue a Master's for International Students

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