Studying public health in Germany gives you strong skills in healthcare systems, epidemiology, and global health. Public universities offer quality training, often with low tuition fees, for both EU and international students. You can start by checking programme pages and preparing your academic documents.
Choose your level of study
Germany offers public health programmes at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. A bachelor programme usually takes three years and gives you a broad foundation in health sciences. A master programme takes one to two years and lets you focus on areas like health economics, policy, or epidemiology.
- Bachelor degrees often require a school-leaving certificate that matches the German entrance qualification.
- Master degrees require a relevant first degree, such as in science, medicine, or social sciences.
- Check the specific university admissions page for exact prerequisites.
Find English-taught programmes
While many bachelor programmes require German proficiency, a large number of master programmes in public health are taught entirely in English. If you choose an English-taught course, you must prove your language skills with a test like IELTS or TOEFL. Always verify the required score directly on the programme page.
- Search international databases for English-taught health degrees.
- Check if German language basics are still required for daily life or internships.
Understand tuition and living costs
Public universities in most German federal states do not charge tuition fees for EU students, and some charge low semester contributions for all students. Non-EU students may face tuition fees depending on the federal state, typically ranging from 1,500 to several thousand euros per semester. In addition, you need to budget for living costs such as rent, food, and health insurance.
- Check the national immigration authority website for current blocked account requirements for visas.
- Budget for rent, transport, and study materials in your chosen city.
Plan your timeline and application
Applications for German universities typically open months before the semester starts. The winter semester starts in October or September, with deadlines usually in July. The summer semester starts in April, with deadlines in January. Start gathering your translated documents and certificates early.
- Submit applications through uni-assist or directly via the university portal.
- Apply for your student visa immediately after receiving your university admission letter.
Common questions
Can I work while studying public health in Germany?
Yes, international students can work a set number of days or hours per year alongside their studies without special permission.
Do I need to speak German to find a job in public health?
While some international organizations use English, knowing German greatly improves your job prospects in the local healthcare sector.
Are scholarships available for international students?
Yes, organizations like the DAAD offer funding. Check the scholarship's own site for specific eligibility rules and deadlines.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.