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Heidelberg University (Ruprecht-Karls-Universität)
Founded in 1386, Germany's oldest and one of its most prestigious research universities.
Highlights
- Germany's oldest and one of Europe's most established universities
- 11 Nobel Prizes awarded to its professors to date
- A broad academic range across 12 faculties and around 100 disciplines
- A campus in the historic city center, in the shadow of Heidelberg Castle
Pros
- Germany's oldest and one of Europe's most prestigious research universities
- An exceptionally strong faculty in medicine and the natural sciences
- A beautiful, historic town with a strong student culture
Things to Consider
- Very high admission competition for medicine and top programs
- Heidelberg is a small city with a limited job market outside academia and pharma
- High demand pushes up student housing prices despite the city's small size
History
Heidelberg University was founded on October 18, 1386, when Elector Ruprecht I received the Pope's permission to establish it. It is Germany's oldest university and the third to be founded in the Holy Roman Empire. Modeled after the University of Paris, it initially comprised four faculties — philosophy, theology, law, and medicine — with the Dutch scholar Marsilius of Inghen, who came from Paris, serving as its first rector.
Also known as "Ruperto Carola," the university has been home to leading scientists throughout its history, including Robert Bunsen, Hermann von Helmholtz, Gustav Kirchhoff, and Max Weber; to date, its professors have been awarded 11 Nobel Prizes.
Set in the historic city center in the shadow of Heidelberg Castle, the university is today regarded as one of Europe's strongest research universities, offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs across 12 faculties and around 100 disciplines.
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