Engineering and Business at OHM – Technische Hochschule Nürnberg, Germany

Explore OHM Nürnberg and its applied, career-oriented approach to studying engineering and business in Germany.

When students think about studying in Germany, they often picture large research universities in cities like Munich, Berlin, or Heidelberg. But for students who are looking for a more practical, career-oriented university experience, Germany’s Universities of Applied Sciences can offer a particularly compelling path.

One strong example is OHM – Technische Hochschule Nürnberg Georg Simon Ohm, often referred to simply as the OHM. Located in Nuremberg, Bavaria, the OHM is one of Germany’s largest universities of applied sciences, with approximately 13,000 students. It combines the advantages of a large public institution with the practical focus and industry orientation that make universities of applied sciences such an interesting option for internationally minded students.

For students from the U.S. and other countries who are exploring English-taught bachelor’s degrees in Germany, OHM is worth a closer look, especially for those interested in business, technology, engineering, and applied learning.

Study engineering, technology, or business in the heart of a major city in Germany: Nuremberg

OHM is located right in the city of Nuremberg, one of Bavaria’s most historic and economically important metropolitan regions. For students, this means that the university experience is not separated from city life. Students study in an urban environment with access to public transportation, cultural events, green spaces, cafés, companies, and the broader Nuremberg metropolitan region.

Nuremberg itself offers a compelling mix of old and new. The city is known for its medieval old town, castle, and strong cultural identity, while also being part of a modern business and technology region. For international students, this can be especially appealing: Nuremberg is large enough to offer professional and cultural opportunities, but still more manageable than some of Germany’s biggest cities.

The OHM’s buildings are close to the historic city center, with parks, public transportation, and daily city life nearby. Students do not need a car to get around, and many parts of the city are accessible by walking, biking, or public transport. Nuremberg is also often described as more affordable than some of Germany’s larger cities, which can make it an attractive option for international students and families who are considering the practical side of studying abroad.

This city setting is an important part of the the OHM experience. Students are not only pursuing a degree in Germany; they are living in a real German city where academic life, everyday life, and future career opportunities can naturally connect.

What makes OHM different?

OHM is a University of Applied Sciences, which means its academic model is built around practical relevance and preparation for professional life. This is an important distinction for students who are comparing different types of German universities.

While traditional research universities often place a stronger emphasis on theory and academic research, Universities of Applied Sciences are usually more practice-oriented. At OHM, this applied approach shapes the way students learn. Programs are designed to connect academic knowledge with real-world skills, modern teaching formats, and professional preparation.

For students who want to study business, engineering, or technology in Germany — but prefer a more structured, hands-on academic environment — OHM can be a strong fit.

English-taught bachelor’s programs at the OHM

For international students, one of the most important questions is simple: Can I study in English?

OHM currently offers three English-taught bachelor’s options:

• International Business (B.A.)
• International Business and Technology (B.Eng.)
• Mechanical Engineering, international (B.Eng.)

These programs make OHM especially interesting for students looking for English-taught bachelor’s degrees in Germany in areas connected to business, engineering, and technology.

The International Business program is designed for students who want to understand global markets, companies, languages, and international professional environments. According to OHM, the program combines theory and practice, offers specialization options, includes professional language instruction, and incorporates practical projects and international experience.

The International Business and Technology program is particularly interesting for students who do not want to choose strictly between business and technical fields. It combines business foundations with technology and engineering-related areas. Students should pay careful attention to language requirements and program structure, as this program begins in English but later includes German-taught components. For students who are willing to build their German language skills, this can open a more interdisciplinary pathway.

The international Mechanical Engineering bachelor’s program is taught in English and offers a practice-oriented engineering education. It combines engineering sciences with problem-solving, design, communication skills, and preparation for professional opportunities in mechanical engineering.

Together, these programs show where OHM currently stands out for international undergraduate students: business, technology, and engineering.

Hands-on learning and professional preparation

One of the main advantages of OHM’s applied model is that students are encouraged to connect what they learn in class with real-world practice. Depending on the program, this may include projects, labs, case studies, practical assignments, and work connected to professional fields.

Many bachelor’s degrees at universities of applied sciences in Germany are structured over seven semesters, or about three and a half years. A practical semester is often part of the degree structure, giving students the opportunity to gain work experience during their studies. At OHM, this practical component can allow students to complete an internship in Germany or abroad, depending on the program and opportunity.

This can be especially valuable for international students who want to build a résumé, better understand the German workplace, and explore career options while completing their degree. OHM’s location in the Nuremberg Metropolitan Region can also be an advantage, as the university has connections to a range of industries and companies in the region.

In this sense, OHM’s approach is not only about earning a degree. It is also about developing practical skills, gaining confidence in a professional environment, and preparing for life after graduation.

International opportunities and global connections

Although OHM is deeply connected to Nuremberg and the surrounding region, it also has an international outlook. The university has partnerships with more than 180 universities worldwide, giving students the possibility to add another international layer to their studies.

For students who choose Germany as their main study destination but still want broader international exposure, this can be appealing. A student might begin with an English-taught degree in Nuremberg, build German language skills, gain practical experience, and potentially explore a semester abroad or internship abroad during the course of study.

This kind of pathway is one reason Germany is becoming increasingly attractive to students looking for a high-value international education.

The new OHM Pathway Program

One of the most important updates for international students is OHM’s new Pathway Programme, officially called the German Math Natural Sciences Pathway Programme.

This two-semester program is designed for international students who want to prepare for a German-taught bachelor’s degree at OHM. It combines intensive German language training with academic preparation in mathematics, physics, and chemistry, as well as an introduction to the German university system.

However, it is important to understand that the pathway program is not a replacement for university entrance eligibility. Applicants must already have a recognized university entrance qualification, known in German as the Hochschulzugangsberechtigung, and they must provide proof of German language proficiency at B1 level.

For eligible students, the pathway can be a valuable bridge into German-taught STEM study. It gives students time to strengthen their German, adjust to academic expectations in Germany, build confidence in technical subjects, and better understand how studying at a German University of Applied Sciences works before beginning the full degree program.

For students who are open to German-taught STEM degrees and meet the entrance requirements, but would benefit from additional preparation, the OHM Pathway Programme may offer a structured and supportive start.

Admissions considerations for international students

Students applying to German universities should be prepared for an admissions process that may look quite different from the U.S. college application process. German university admission is usually more program-specific, credential-based, and tied closely to the academic requirements of the individual degree.

For U.S. students, one of the most important questions is whether their academic background qualifies them for university admission in Germany. A U.S. high school diploma alone may not automatically be considered equivalent to the German Abitur, which is Germany’s standard university entrance qualification. Depending on the student’s background, additional qualifications such as AP exams, recognized college coursework, or another approved route may be required.

This matters both for direct admission into an English-taught bachelor’s program and for students considering OHM’s Pathway Programme. Even pathway applicants need to show that they already have the required university entrance qualification; the pathway is designed to help eligible students prepare academically and linguistically for German-taught study, not to replace missing admission eligibility.

Students should also pay close attention to language requirements. English-taught programs may require proof of English proficiency, while German-taught programs and the pathway program require German language preparation. Requirements can vary by program, so applicants should always check the specific OHM program page for the degree they are considering.

Because German admissions can be very document-driven, students should prepare official records carefully and early. Typical documents may include the high school diploma, official transcripts, AP exam results where applicable, proof of language proficiency, and any additional program-specific materials. When in doubt, students should consult OHM’s official admissions information or contact the university directly for clarification.

Tuition and affordability

Germany is often known for its relatively low public university costs. However, families should understand that tuition rules can vary by state, university, and student category.

At OHM, tuition is charged for students from non-EEA countries starting with students enrolling as of the winter semester 2026/27. According to OHM’s official tuition page, the tuition fee for students from non-EEA countries is €1,000 per semester. Students should also expect additional semester fees and living expenses.

Even with tuition, this cost can still be significantly lower than at many U.S. colleges. For families comparing the cost of a bachelor’s degree in the United States with English-taught options in Europe, OHM may be part of a broader conversation about value, affordability, and return on investment.

Of course, tuition is only one part of the full budget. Students also need to consider housing, health insurance, food, transportation, study materials, visa requirements, and personal expenses. Students should plan carefully and start housing research early.

Housing, support, and student services

Like many German public universities, OHM does not operate like a residential U.S. college campus where most students live in university-owned dorms. Instead, students may live in student housing, shared apartments, private apartments, or surrounding neighborhoods with good public transportation connections.

This means students need to be proactive about housing. Starting early is important, especially for international students who are moving from abroad. OHM’s International Academic Services can guide students toward resources and information, but students should understand that they will likely need to take initiative in securing accommodation.

Support for international students is an important part of the OHM experience. OHM’s International Academic Services team provides guidance for international applicants and students, including information related to applications, tuition, visas, residence permits, housing, orientation, and everyday questions related to studying in Germany.

The university also offers orientation events and intercultural activities that can help international students settle in, meet others, and better understand the German university system. For students coming from the United States or another non-German system, this kind of support can make the transition more manageable.

Student life beyond the classroom

Student life at OHM extends beyond academics. Students can get involved through university sports, music groups, theater, student initiatives, intercultural events, and local community activities. Nuremberg itself also offers many ways to connect with others, from sports clubs and cultural associations to cafés, museums, festivals, and public events.

For international students, joining activities can be one of the best ways to meet people, practice German, and feel more at home. This is especially important in Germany, where campus life may be less residential than at many U.S. colleges. Students who are proactive about joining clubs, attending events, and exploring the city will likely have a stronger overall experience.

Who might be a good fit for OHM?

OHM may be a strong fit for students interested in studying in Germany and want a practical, applied university experience.

It may be especially appealing for students who:

• Are interested in business, technology, or engineering
• Want an English-taught bachelor’s degree in Germany
• Prefer hands-on learning over a purely theoretical academic model
• Like the idea of a practical semester or professional experience during the degree
• Want to study in a real German city, not an isolated campus
• Are open to learning German and engaging with German culture
• Want a more affordable international university pathway
• Are looking for a public university with strong regional and industry connections

It may be less ideal for students who want a broad liberal arts curriculum, a highly residential campus model, or a university experience that closely resembles a U.S. college. OHM is very much part of the German higher education system, and students should be prepared for more independence, a direct-entry academic structure, and program-specific requirements.

Why The OHM Is Worth Considering

OHM – Technische Hochschule Nürnberg offers a compelling example of what makes studying in Germany so interesting for international students today. It combines the affordability of German public universities, applied learning, English-taught bachelor’s programs, and a strong location in one of Bavaria’s major cities.

For students interested in business, engineering, technology, and career-oriented education, OHM offers a practical route into German higher education. Its English-taught bachelor’s programs provide access to undergraduate study in Germany, while the new Pathway Programme opens another door for students preparing for German-taught degrees.

As more families explore international university options, OHM stands out as a reminder that Germany’s higher education landscape is diverse. Students do not only have to choose between traditional research universities and private international colleges. A University of Applied Sciences like OHM can offer a strong middle ground: academically serious, professionally connected, internationally accessible, and grounded in real-world learning.

For students who want to study in Germany, build practical skills, and experience life in a historic yet modern European city, OHM – Technische Hochschule Nürnberg is a university worth exploring.

Watch our May Global College Spotlight for Insights with an OHM representative from the international office:

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