DISCOVER ESSEN

FIND YOUR STUDY PROGRAM IN ESSEN

ESSEN AT A GLANCE

Essen is a city in Germany, located in the largest urban area in the country, Rhein. Moreover, it is the ninth largest city in Germany and the fourth largest city of the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia, with a population of over 580, 000 inhabitants. Essen has a total area of 210.34 km2 and borders on five other cities. 9.2% of Essen’s area is covered by recreational green, which makes it the greenest city in the area, North-Rhine-Westphalia and the third-greenest city in the Federal Republic in general. In Essen, the climate is considered typical oceanic with cool summers and not that cold winters. The temperatures are between 2 °C in the winter and 25 °C in the summer. Of course, the official language in the city is German. In Essen, just like in whole Germany, the crime rates are relatively low, which is why the city is considered a safe place for living, working and studying. Because of its central location, the city of Essen can be reached by car, train or plane easily from any part in Germany. Essen is really close to other big cities such as Dortmund which is approximately 30 minutes away. Even Düsseldorf can be reached within less than two hours by train. The closest airport to Essen is the Dortmund Airport (DTM), which is half an hour away by train. Also, the Düsseldorf airport can be easily accessed from the city of Essen by train, shuttle or by bus. The best part is that thanks to the Semestertickets students receive while studying in Essen, they can basically travel within the North Rhine-Westphalia area without having to pay anything. The city of Essen has been an industrial region for decades but nowadays it is considered a cultural hub as well as a shopping center.

Academic Year

Summer Semester: March – September / Winter Semester: October – February

Official Language

German

Higher Education Institutions

Population

583393

Living Costs

530 – 580 EUR

STUDYING IN ESSEN

The University of Duisburg-Essen has two campuses in Essen and another one in Duisburg. The higher education institution is the newest and youngest university in the Federal Republic. It was first opened in 2003 and currently is home to over 35, 000 students. Moreover, at least 10 percent of the students at the university are international ones, all coming from around the world with the aim to study in Essen (or Duisburg). Thus, the University of Duisburg-Essen is ranked among the ten largest universities in the country. The university’s faculties offer a huge variety of degree courses, including mathematics, computer science, and economics. On the main campus in Essen, the concentration is on the humanities studies, as well as art and design, while the other campus in the city focuses more on medicine. As for finding a student accommodation, students can choose where to live during their study between living in a dormitory, in a shared flat or to rent a small flat/studio for themselves only. Renting a room in a student dormitory are considered the cheapest accommodation option. Usually, a room at the student halls of residence in Essen comes at the price of between 250 and 280 EUR per month. However, the number of people who want to live there are usually more than the places available. Therefore, the earlier one applies the higher chances he or she has to get a place in the student dormitory. Of course, private accommodation can be also found for the price of approximately 300 – 380 EUR per month, including all the bills.

ESSEN LIFESTYLE

Essen is located in the center of one of the most interesting and cultural regions around Europe. In fact, in 2010 Essen was ranked as the European Capital of Culture. It is a vibrant city which offers diverse and dynamic cultural attractions which definitely worth exploring the city. Interesting exhibitions and the beautiful museums are just a small part of what Essen has to offer. The Villa Hügel is a famous castle-like residence in Essen. With its impressive library and amazing tapestries, the Villa shows the economic importance of the city of Essen during the years of the Industrial Revolution. Even nowadays, international art exhibitions are carried out in the Villa Hügel. The opera house and the cathedral in Essen can make all the people who do appreciate a beautiful architecture fall in love in the city. For nature lovers, the Grugapark Botanical Garden in the city offers beautiful waterfalls and multiple playgrounds to enjoy some free time outside. When it comes to food, Essen really is a foodie destination offering fairytale restaurants. People will find both local and international options that can satisfy even the most exquisite tastes while still fitting the budget. The cuisine experience can range from the Spanish paella to traditional meals in farmhouse restaurants.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES IN ESSEN

The Rhein area in Germany, where Essen is located, is considered a hub of one of the most productive concerns in the country. Domestic and international companies offer many employment opportunities to expats in the city mainly in the industrial sector. Deichman, one of the most famous shoe retailer companies in Europe, as well as the German giant in the electric sector – E.ON, have their headquarters in Essen. Of course, there are many different ways for someone to look for a job in the city. The most traditional method is through the local newspapers where job offers are posted every day. Moreover, the Internet is also a very useful tool in finding a job in the city and even gives the opportunity to students and graduates to look for employment in the city before they have actually moved there.