Established in 1386, Heidelberg University – also known as Ruperto Carola – is Germany’s oldest university and one of Europe’s most research-intensive institutions. Its successes in the Excellence Initiative and its positions in internationally recognised rankings substantiate the leading role and excellent reputation of Heidelberg University in the academic, scientific and research landscape. In educating students and advancing outstanding young researchers, Ruperto Carola emphasises research-based teaching and structured doctoral training programmes in its graduate schools.

Heidelberg University is a comprehensive research university. Its broad subject spectrum in twelve faculties includes the humanities, law, the social and behavioural sciences, the life sciences, medicine and the natural sciences. With approximately 160 degree programmes, Heidelberg offers a preeminent array of subject combinations. The university actively participates in a worldwide network of teaching and research collaborations: 25 institutional partnerships at the overall university level and exchange arrangements with over 450 universities throughout the world underscore the strength of Ruperto Carola’s international ties. A multitude of research and teaching collaborations are also established at the faculty, institute and chair levels.

The university is especially committed to advancing exceptional individual disciplines, promoting dialogue beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries, and turning research findings to good use for society and the economy. In this endeavour, it also relies on strong partners outside the university.