The University of Bamberg is one of the oldest, but also one of the youngest, universities in Bavaria. First founded in 1647 by Bishop Melchior Otto Voit of Salzburg, it quickly became a classical university with faculties of theology, philosophy, law, and medicine. Friedrich Karl von Schönborn, also of Salzburg, was one of the main patrons during the time, when the university was still named Academia Bambergenesis. Later, the University of Bamberg would take the names of these two sponsors and be called Otto-Friedrich-Universität. In 1803, as a consequence of secularization in Bavaria, the main university was closed, and it was only possible to study Catholic theology until the university reopened in 1972. In 1979, the school was officially granted the title of university. Today, the University of Bamberg has about 9,000 students with the majority being female (63%) and 7% of the student body consisting of international students. It houses well-respected departments in the areas of the humanities and social sciences.

Study Abroad

The Bamberg Exchange Program offers a once in a lifetime chance to study abroad. Not only will you improve your language skills enormously, but you will also get to know new people, from Germany and from all over the world, who are participating in the various programs the University offers. You will get to know the German university system, the German lifestyle, food, traditions, and people. Being away from home in a different environment is a truly eye-opening and important experience. It will not only give you a better understanding of other cultures, but also make you see your own culture and yourself from a new point of view. It is a unique experience that you will never forget and will undoubtedly serve you well in future endeavors!