Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences: List of all tuition-free master programs (2026/27)

Established in 2009, Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences (HSHL) is one of Germany's newest public universities. Its 6,000 students are split between campuses in Hamm (population 180,000) and Lippstadt (population 70,000) in North Rhine-Westphalia. This young university offers bachelor's and master's programs in engineering, computer science, business administration, and health sciences. Its focus on emerging fields rather than traditional disciplines is reflected in interdisciplinary degrees such as biomedical technology, intelligent systems, and interaction design. Located in mid-sized industrial cities in the eastern Ruhr region, approximately one hour from Dortmund and two hours from Cologne, both campuses have new, purpose-built facilities that opened after 2010. These facilities have modern laboratories and equipment. However, the cities themselves have limited student life compared to established university towns. HSHL provides several bachelor's programs taught in English, which is unusual for German Fachhochschulen. These programs include Biomedical Engineering and Business Administration and Engineering. They attract international students despite the cities lacking significant international communities outside of campus. As a new university still building its reputation and alumni network, HSHL offers advantages, including guaranteed housing for international students, small class sizes due to controlled growth, and less competitive admission than at more established institutions. However, graduates may face less employer recognition than graduates of older universities. Students should verify their program's location, as the dual-campus structure means Hamm focuses more on business and social sciences, while Lippstadt emphasizes engineering and natural sciences. Both small cities offer affordable living costs of around €600–750 monthly, but students should be prepared to adjust to quiet urban environments distant from major metropolitan centers.