University of Hamburg

The University of Hamburg is one of the largest and most prestigious universities in Germany.

The University of Hamburg was born on March 28th, 1919, making it the first democratically founded university in Germany. This groundbreaking event took place under the newly elected, citizen-chosen parliament of Hamburg, symbolizing a new era of education and progress.

Though formally established in 1919, the university's roots stretch back several centuries. The Akademisches Gymnasium, founded in 1613, and the General Lecture Series initiated in 1764 laid the groundwork for higher education in Hamburg. These institutions fostered a thirst for knowledge and intellectual discourse, paving the way for the university's eventual creation.

The university experienced significant growth in the post-war era, expanding its faculties and student body. In 1954, the Faculty of Theology was established, and the Faculty of Law and State Sciences was divided into separate faculties for Law and Economics and Social Sciences.

The student movements of 1968 had a profound impact on the university, leading to a restructuring of its internal organization. In 1969, the traditional faculty system was replaced with a more interdisciplinary, department-based structure, reflecting the evolving trends in academia and society.

The University of Hamburg's story is one of democratic ideals, academic excellence, and unwavering commitment to progress. From its humble beginnings as a citizen-driven institution to its current status as a renowned research powerhouse, the university continues to shape the intellectual landscape of Germany and beyond.

Based on the QS World University Rankings of 2025, University of Hamburg is positioned as the #191 top university in the world, which makes it the #9 top university in Germany. The university's global rank is improved by 14 points from last year.