University of Witten/Herdecke: State Exam Programs without Admission Restriction / NC-Free (2026/27)

University of Witten/Herdecke, officially known as Universität Witten/Herdecke (UW/H), is a private, state-recognized, non-profit university founded in 1982. With more than 3,700 students, it is one of the few private universities in Germany considered prestigious. Located in the city of Witten, within one of Europe's largest metropolitan regions, the university offers the best of both worlds: access to the cultural, economic, and academic opportunities of the Ruhr area while providing a peaceful campus setting surrounded by nature. 

It offers a wide range of academic programmes, with particular emphasis on management, economics, politics, society, psychology, nursing, medicine and dentistry. It is renowned for its innovative approach to education, which includes the Studium fundamentale, a core element that encourages interdisciplinary thinking and personal development. The university's strength lies in its small class sizes, personal attention and emphasis on practical experience through internships and real-world projects.

University of Witten/Herdecke is consistently ranked among Germany's top universities for management, economics and psychology in national rankings such as the CHE ranking. It has also gained recognition for its commitment to sustainability, social responsibility and experiential learning, making it a hub for innovative and socially conscious education.

One of the unique aspects of the University of Witten/Herdecke is its innovative payment model, which was introduced by students in 1995. The Income Share Agreement allows students to pay their tuition fees after graduation based on their future income, thus ensuring access to higher education regardless of family income. This model exemplifies the university's commitment to social responsibility and inclusivity.