Overview: University of Greifswald
The University of Greifswald, officially known as Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-Universität Greifswald, was founded in 1456, making it one of the oldest universities in Europe and Germany. Located in Greifswald, a historic town in the northeast of Germany, the institution is a public, research-intensive university with a modern, comprehensive academic portfolio. With approximately 10,000 students and five faculties (Theology, Law and Economics, Medicine, Arts and Humanities, and Mathematics and Natural Sciences), the university maintains an intimate yet robust environment conducive to high-quality research and teaching.
Academic Strengths and Structure
Renowned for excellence in life sciences—notably medicine, pharmacy, environmental sciences, and molecular biology—the University of Greifswald also demonstrates particular strengths in the humanities (history, art history, Scandinavian and Baltic studies), and natural sciences. Its interdisciplinary approach, blending close faculty cooperation with modular study structures, enables flexibility and innovation in curriculum design. The university consistently ranks among Germany’s top universities for research impact, notably in life sciences and environmental studies. It is an active participant in several international research consortia and maintains over 250 global academic partnerships, facilitating joint-degree programs, collaborative projects, and exchange opportunities. It’s recognized for research output in climate research and infection biology, with numerous faculty members contributing to high-impact publications and EU-funded projects.
Student Life and Community
Campus life at Greifswald is vibrant and welcoming, offering more than 60 student clubs and societies ranging from science specialization groups to musical ensembles and sports teams. The university invests in student support, providing comprehensive orientation, tutoring, and counseling services. Greifswald fosters a strong spirit of internationalization—hosting around 10% international students and annual cultural festivals such as Nordischer Klang. Modern facilities cater to housing, fitness, and creative arts, while inclusive policies promote diversity and equal opportunity. The city’s compact size ensures a closely-knit academic and social community, with easy access to the Baltic Sea and surrounding nature.
Mission, Vision, and Values
The University of Greifswald is dedicated to fostering academic curiosity, sustainable innovation, and responsible global citizenship. Its mission integrates cutting-edge research, equity in education, and a commitment to addressing societal and environmental challenges for the benefit of future generations.
