Our mission statement We are the University of Duisburg-Essen
We connect knowledge with ideas, research with education, our region with the world and cities with people. We think without borders and advance through emergent structures.
Our university and the Ruhr Region share the courage to change, the pragmatism and desire for impact and achieving results. We are globally engaged, academically ambitious, and aim to inspire our manifold networks.
Freedom, diversity & sustainability
We stand for freedom, diversity and sustainability as an integral part of a democratic society. Our university culture is rooted in active community and mutual respect.
Distinction in research performance, digitalization & innovation
We aim for distinction in research performance, digitalization, and innovation. Our science is relevant and impactful. We embrace the chances for transfer through our networks with industry, government, and all sectors of society. Our educational programs fulfil the highest professional and pedagogical standards of our time. We model academic discourse on evidence and a plurality of viewpoints. Our global engagement is anchored in mutually beneficial cooperation and science diplomacy in regional, national and international relations and alliances.
We endeavor to...
- build an active scientific and educational community
- perform in research and education at the highest academic standards
- engage globally and build strong networks
- innovate and advance digitalization
- stand for openness, diversity, equity, and sustainability.
We create and promote...
- belonging and individual development in our university culture
- an on-campus presence with rich personal interactions
- effective and attractive structures
- platforms for educational, professional, and social advancement
- networks and alliances – advancing together!
Strong in Research
We create scope for excellent science, transfer and promotion of young researchers: In four profile focal points and a wide variety of other research focal points.
Instructive
We create many perspectives because we embrace educational equity as a task and offer space for heterogeneous potentials and different study strategies.
Diversity
We promote potential, realize equal opportunities and use the innovative power of diversity management for research and teaching.
University of Duisburg-Essen Open-minded thinking
Outstanding research, academic education and social relevance characterise us, the University of Duisburg-Essen, as a place of knowledge and individual advancement. Anchored in the heart of the Ruhr region and internationally networked, we combine scientific excellence with a clear commitment to educational equity and sustainability.
University Alliance Ruhr:
Shaping the Future Together
What happens when three major universities join forces?
At the University Alliance Ruhr (UA Ruhr), it means creating one of Germany’s most dynamic academic networks — connecting people, ideas, and innovation across disciplines and campuses.
From trustworthy AI and future energy materials to health research, sustainable chemical processes, and societal transformation — collaboration drives everything we do.
Stay in touch with us!
Alumni network InfinitUDE
The alumni network InfinitUDE enables graduates to maintain contact with the UDE and with each other, expand their professional and personal networks, and participate in events. At the same time, students benefit from the experiences and perspectives of the alumni.
Friends of the University Association
In addition, the Friends of the University Association offers an opportunity to provide targeted support for research, teaching and young academics. Through their moral and financial contributions, supporters make an important contribution to the further development of the university.
Scholarships & Foundations
Becoming a sponsor in the UDE scholarship programme or in the university foundations also opens up sustainable ways to promote talent and strengthen educational opportunities. This commitment not only enables individual development, but also supports the university's social responsibility.
