Environmental Engineering (BEng) Hof University of Applied Sciences

This programme qualifies students for careers in environmental technology and engineering, with a focus on sustainability and the digital transformation of society. Graduates develop skills and knowledge in:

• Fundamentals of engineering and natural sciences
• Understanding natural cycles (water, soil, air), energy systems, and their interaction with society and industry
• Circular economy principles and energy efficiency in environmental systems and buildings
• Methods for analysing and implementing environmental science findings and projects
• Developing innovative solutions for environmental engineering challenges using cutting-edge tools and technologies
• German language skills (level B2) at graduation

In addition, you benefit from …

• A strong foundation in digital technologies for effective and efficient project implementation
• Advanced communication and collaboration skills to work in interdisciplinary and international teams
• The ability to evaluate solutions from ecological, economic, and social sustainability perspectives

Career perspectives

Environmental engineers are in high demand to address critical global challenges. Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles, including:

• Environmental Engineer
• Project Manager in Water and Energy Systems
• Sustainability Consultant
• Research Scientist in Environmental Technologies
• Circular Economy Specialist

The international orientation of the programme also opens doors to global markets and advanced studies in specialised Master’s programmes.

The Bachelor's programme in Environmental Engineering combines foundational knowledge, practice-oriented modules, and real-world application.

Semester one and two: Fundamentals
Focus on fundamentals such as mathematics, mechanics, computer science, materials science, and project management. International students receive intensive mandatory German language training.

Semester three and four: Specialisations I
Core specialisations are in thermodynamics, environmental chemistry, reaction technology, microbiology, environmental toxicology, tap water treatment, hydrology, and environmental economics. International students receive mandatory German language training.

Semester five and six: Specialisations II
Specialisation in advanced topics, including hydraulics and modelling, environmental analysis, wastewater treatment, circular economy, plus five elective modules for tailored expertise

Semester seven: Internship semester and Bachelor's thesis
A compulsory practical phase/internship (one semester) and Bachelor's thesis, often in collaboration with industrial partners, provide hands-on experience with real engineering challenges.

A mandatory internship in industry in the seventh semester allows you to gain hands-on experience in real-world environments.

• General higher education entrance qualification or subject-linked university entrance qualification, university of applied sciences entrance qualification or professional qualification
• If you are not sure about your university entrance qualification, please check uni-assist and the DAAD database.

Administrative fee of approx. 150 EUR per semester

The cost of living in the city of Hof is moderate compared to both other European countries and bigger cities in Germany. On average, living expenses for a student range between 800 and 1,000 EUR per month in total.

The following is an approximate cost calculation of expenditures per month:

• accommodation: 350 to 550 EUR
• mandatory health insurance: about 120 EUR
• food and personal expenditures: at least 350 EUR

The Career Service team at Hof University offers you a wide range of career preparation and orientation services, including workshops, company excursions, and job fairs. We will prepare you for the German labour market by providing you with specific information, counselling, and qualifications. Thus, you will be able to start your individual career as an intern and as a graduate.

The Housing Office supports international students in finding appropriate accommodation.

Rent for a single student room is approx. 350 to 550 EUR. Rent for a private one-room apartment for one tenant or for a couple is more than 550 EUR. We also have a limited number of double rooms for friends that cost about 250 to 320 EUR per person. Beside the rent, there are additional costs for water, energy, broadcast fee, and Internet.

For a full overview of the practical issues related to living in Hof and our support services for international students, please have a look at the website of our Welcome Service and Housing Office.

Studying at Hof University – your benefits at a glance

• Hands-on education that prepares you for a successful career
• Friendly, international study community
• Personal support from Welcome Service, International Office, and Career Service
• Help finding accommodation and a guided Orientation Week
• Career-building activities like intercultural training, field trips, and company visits

About Hof University

Founded in 1994, Hof University offers a modern campus with state-of-the-art facilities and a hands-on learning environment. As a practice-oriented university of applied sciences with integrated internships in all programmes, the employability of our graduates is the main focus of our teaching.

Our commitment to students is reflected in StudyCheck rankings: Hof University was Germany’s most popular university in 2023 and 2024 and continues to receive excellent teaching ratings. In 2026, StudyCheck awarded the “Top Hochschule” distinction, recognising Hof University as one of the most popular institutions in Germany with fewer than 5,000 students.

We offer over 50 Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes in engineering, advanced computing and AI, business, and design. The Graduate School provides fully English-taught postgraduate programmes for professionals with at least one year of work experience.

Practice-oriented learning

All professors have a strong academic background as well as practical experience in industry. Teaching is application-focused, including real-world projects, company collaborations, and site visits. This approach ensures students gain practical skills and confidence to succeed in national and international careers.

Personal support & international environment

Hof University is known for its friendly study atmosphere. An excellent student-to-lecturer ratio enables close interaction between students and professors and an active exchange of ideas. Students benefit from personal support services such as orientation programmes, integration events, and housing assistance.

With over 130 partner universities worldwide and more than 30% international students on campus, Hof University offers a truly multicultural and welcoming environment where you can grow both academically and personally.

Applied research & entrepreneurship

Six research institutes focus on areas such as information systems, sustainable water and energy systems, materials science, and organisational research, always connecting research to practical and sustainable solutions.

Students with entrepreneurial ideas receive guidance and support at Einstein1, the on-campus incubator that helps turn innovative ideas into real-world ventures.

Our main campus is located in the city of Hof, a safe and cosy town located at the top of Bavaria and in the heart of Europe. Hof has a population of about 45,000 inhabitants and offers all the amenities of a university town: a cinema, theatre, an annual film festival and a variety of cafés, bars and clubs.

Our region has the second-highest density of industry across Europe, with many companies specialising in machinery, automotive components, ceramics, and textiles. Many of these are small and medium-sized “hidden champions” in their field, offering excellent opportunities for internships and entry-level jobs.

The city of Hof is surrounded by beautiful nature. It is located between the low mountain regions of the Fichtelgebirge and the Franconian Forest on the banks of the Saale River. You will find excellent possibilities for all outdoor sporting activities such as cycling, hiking, climbing, and skiing.

Big cities like Berlin, Prague, and Munich are also within easy reach by train or bus. This means you can study in a practice-oriented environment while also enjoying life outside the classroom.