Overview: University of Giessen
The Justus Liebig University Giessen (JLU), established in 1607, is one of Germany’s oldest public universities, located in Giessen, Hesse. Renowned for its longstanding academic tradition, JLU serves as a comprehensive institution with a strong research and teaching profile. With around 28,000 students and approximately 600 professors, the university operates across 11 faculties on multiple campus sites throughout the city. This scale and diversity position JLU as a significant center for higher education and research in central Germany, attractive to students and academics worldwide.
Academic Strengths and Structure
JLU excels particularly in life sciences, with internationally recognized programs in veterinary medicine, agricultural sciences, biology, and medicine. Its broad academic portfolio also encompasses the humanities, cultural studies, law, economics, business, education, and the natural sciences. JLU promotes interdisciplinarity and research-led teaching, reflected in flexible degree structures and modular curricula. The university is home to several collaborative research centers and is a partner in academic consortia, such as the Mittelhessen University Network. JLU consistently ranks among Germany’s top institutions for research output in life sciences and maintains over 200 international partnerships for joint degrees, mobility, and cooperative projects.
Student Life and Community
Campus life at JLU is vibrant and diverse, with more than 80 student clubs, cultural societies, and initiatives fostering engagement beyond the classroom. Regular events, such as international weeks and the annual university ball, build a strong sense of community. The university emphasizes inclusivity and internationalization, supporting over 2,900 international students from more than 100 countries. Comprehensive student services include accommodation support, counseling, and language courses. Modern sports facilities, music ensembles, and art exhibitions provide further opportunities for personal development and community involvement, contributing to a welcoming and holistic student environment.
Mission, Vision, and Values
The University of Giessen is committed to advancing academic excellence, innovative research, and social responsibility. Guided by principles of sustainability, equity, and global citizenship, JLU continually seeks to empower students and scholars to address the challenges of an interconnected world.
