Seal element of the university of freiburg in the shape of a flower

Teaching

Teaching at the University of Freiburg

At the University of Freiburg, students learn to think critically, solve problems and take on social responsibility – skills that are essential for meeting the complex demands of the present and the future. This is underpinned by the development of subject-specific expertise, methodological skills and academic rigour.

Building on this, the University of Freiburg supports students in pursuing their interests with curiosity and across disciplinary boundaries. They are encouraged to apply the interdisciplinary knowledge they have acquired to complex problems and societal challenges.

Courses on self-management, career-oriented skills and key competencies also help students prepare for working life. This comprehensive education prepares students at the University of Freiburg for successful careers both within and outside academia.

At the University of Freiburg, teaching and learning take place not only across disciplines but also across national borders. Through international networks such as EPICUR and EUCOR, digital formats with partner universities, English-language programmes and binational degree programmes, students at the University of Freiburg have access to a European higher education area that also enables joint degrees. Partnerships with universities outside Europe enable study abroad placements from the USA to New Zealand.

The University of Freiburg supports teaching staff in continuously developing their teaching skills and implementing innovative approaches. In particular, it promotes the integration of artificial intelligence into teaching, digital teaching, learning and assessment formats, and the development of interdisciplinary programmes. Guidance for the development of teaching concepts is provided by the University of Freiburg’s Mission Statement for Learning and Teaching, which was last revised in 2025.

Teaching profile

At the University of Freiburg, students acquire the knowledge and skills they need to successfully tackle the complex challenges of the future. Through interdisciplinary learning, practical relevance and international exchange, they gain career-relevant skills and a broad range of perspectives. The University of Freiburg supports teaching staff in developing innovative approaches and interdisciplinary programmes. The University of Freiburg’s mission statement on teaching and learning provides guidance in this regard.

Teaching quality

The high standard of teaching at the University of Freiburg is ensured by a comprehensive quality management system. Internal accreditation, a central evaluation service and regular surveys enable the evidence-based development of degree programmes. Guidance is provided by the Mission Statement for Learning and Teaching, as well as quality objectives that embed skills-oriented, research-based and future-focussed teaching across all disciplines. In addition, targeted training in higher education pedagogy, digital support services and funding schemes for innovative teaching projects strengthen teaching competence within the faculties. The University Teaching Award recognises outstanding commitment and highlights the quality of teaching at the University of Freiburg.

Innovation in teaching

The University of Freiburg prepares students for the challenges of the future and uses technological advances to continuously develop and improve its teaching. Through its funding schemes, the University creates spaces in which teaching and learning can be reimagined, new concepts tested and innovation fostered. In particular, the University supports the integration of artificial intelligence into teaching, digital teaching, learning and assessment formats, as well as the development of interdisciplinary programmes.

Internationalisation in teaching

At the University of Freiburg, teaching and learning take place across national borders. Throughout their studies, students can gain international experience in Freiburg and abroad, whilst enhancing their language and intercultural skills. Through international partnerships with other universities, cross-border courses, binational degree programmes and instruction in English, students at the University of Freiburg have access to a European higher education area that also provides joint degrees. Partnerships with universities across Europe and worldwide offer opportunities to study abroad, from Strasbourg to Sydney.

Services for teaching faculty

Lecturers at the University of Freiburg can find answers to teaching-related questions here: How does the University support me in making my teaching even more innovative? How can I organise cross-border courses in collaboration with partner universities? What are the latest developments in teaching at the University of Freiburg? How can I organise, administer, design, evaluate and optimise my teaching abilities?

Ein Mann in weißem Labormantel hält eine Scheibe mit einem schwarzen und einem weissen Blättchen hoch. Im Vordergrund sind unscharf Laborgeräte zu erkennen.