FREE UNIVERSITY OF BERLIN

Berlin, the capital city of Germany, is not only known for its rich history, vibrant culture and dynamic arts scene but also for its prestigious educational institutions. 

The “Free University of Berlin” stands out as a symbol of academic excellence, research innovation and intellectual freedom. 

In this article, we will delve into the history, faculties, research endeavors and global impact of the Free University of Berlin, explaining why it’s considered one of the leading universities in Europe. 

INTRODUCTION

Free University of Berlin (Free University in Berlin), also known as Freie Universität Berlin, is one of Germany’s premier research universities and occupies a prominent place in the country’s academic landscape.

The university stands among the elite 13 universities funded through the German government’s Excellence Strategy.

It is an integral member of the exclusive Berlin University Alliance, alongside Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Technische Universität Berlin and Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin.

Their joint proposal, titled “Crossing Boundaries toward an Integrated Research Environment,” signifies a commitment to transform Berlin into a dynamic and integrated research hub in Europe.

The university’s dedication to nurturing talent is evident through the Dahlem Research School, while its global outlook is supported by over 100 international partnerships and a diverse student body, with approximately 17 percent hailing from abroad.

With 16 academic departments and central institutes offering an extensive array of more than 150 degree programs, Freie Universität Berlin is a beacon of academic diversity and excellence.

HISTORY OF FREE UNIVERSITY OF BERLIN

The history of the Free University of Berlin is rooted in a bold act of defiance against authoritarianism and the pursuit of academic freedom. 

Founded in 1948 during the aftermath of World War II and the division of Germany, this university emerged as a response to the political pressures faced by academics in the Soviet-controlled sector of Berlin. 

Origins and Founding

The Free University of Berlin (Free University in Berlin) was established as a countermeasure to the suppression of academic freedom in East Berlin, where many universities were subject to political control. 

Professors and students who opposed this control decided to create a new university in the American sector of Berlin under the motto “Truth, Justice, Freedom.” This university was to be a beacon of independent academic inquiry. 

Academic Freedom

The Free University of Berlin quickly became a symbol of academic resistance, where faculty and students could engage in open discussions, research and teaching without the fear of political interference. 

This dedication to academic freedom remains a core principle of the institution to this day. 

Turning Points in the University’s History

1968: Catalyst for Change

In 1968, Free University of Berlin played a central role in the German student protests, igniting a push for greater openness, equality and democracy.

1990: Shifting Emphasis

After German reunification in 1990, the university redirected its focus towards research, resulting in notable growth in graduates, successful doctoral candidates and publications.

2007: Excellence Recognition

In 2007, Free University of Berlin earned distinction in all three funding lines of the Excellence Initiative, solidifying its position as an “international network university.”

2018: Berlin University Alliance

In 2018, the institution joined forces with other major Berlin universities to create the Berlin University Alliance, fostering greater collaboration.

2019: Excellence Strategy

Since 2019, the university has been funded as part of the excellence consortium Berlin University Alliance within the Excellence Strategy competition of the German federal and state governments.

THE ART OF ACADEMICS IN FREE UNIVERSITY OF BERLIN

Free University of Berlin boasts a diverse academic landscape with twelve departments and three Central Institutes, offering over 150 academic programs across various disciplines.

Notably, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin serves as the joint medical school with Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin.

Furthermore, the Dahlem Research School (DRS) is a pioneering initiative providing structured doctoral programs. This innovative approach underscores the university’s commitment to nurturing junior scholars and scientists, offering optimal conditions for academic growth.

DRS fosters interdisciplinary research, international collaboration and support for both established and emerging graduate programs and research training groups.

Academic Departments

• Biology, Chemistry and Pharmacy
• Earth Sciences
• Education and Psychology
• History and Cultural Studies
• Law
• Mathematics and Computer Science
• Philosophy and Humanities
• Physics
• Political and Social Sciences
• Veterinary Medicine
• School of Business and Economics
• Medical School – Charité – University Medicine Berlin

SHAPING TOMORROW WITH RESEARCH AND INNOVATION

The Free University of Berlin has a strong commitment to research, evident through its numerous research centers, institutes and collaborations with global institutions.

The university stands out for the remarkable breadth of its research activities, particularly in the humanities and social sciences—an unparalleled landscape in Germany.

These research focal points foster meaningful dialogue between academia, research and society.

In the domain of natural sciences, the university emphasizes life and earth sciences, as well as physics, mathematics and computer science.

Additionally, the institution includes the Department of Veterinary Medicine and serves as Germany’s largest pharmacy education provider within this extensive research framework.

The university emphasizes specific research areas, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. These strategic research focus areas serve as the foundation for research alliances, consolidating significant academic expertise and core competencies.

Here are its research fields:

• Biomedical foundations
• Health and quality of life
• Materials research
• Complex systems
• Educational processes and results
• In-security – security research
• Human-environmental interactions
• Transregional relations
• Cultural dynamics

Some of the Research Projects in Free university of Berlin (Free university in Berlin) are,

SOUND – Socio-ecologic investigation of orthobunyaviruses as neglected causes of disease in Africa

This project aims to study orthobunyaviruses as causes of human diseases and their socio-ecological dynamics in Benin and Togo.

It involves investigating virus occurrence, genealogy, hosts, transmission and human infection while exploring local strategies to manage virus spread.

Validation of biomarkers for equine asthma

This project focuses on validating potential biomarkers for equine asthma using ELISA procedures, aiming to identify diagnostic markers and generate antibodies for future diagnostic tests.

Role of Localized Defects in 2D Materials: From Nanoscale Structure to Macroscale Properties

The project aims to bridge the gap in understanding defects in two-dimensional materials.

It involves collaboration among three expert teams, utilizing advanced techniques to study defect creation, nanoscale characterization and conductivity measurements, providing valuable insights into the structure-property relationship.

Spread of Greek Literature in Greek Literature

The Greek Cultural Foundation backs projects promoting Greek literature globally through university research centers.

CeMoG’s Edition Romiosini expands Greek literature translations at the Frankfurt Book Fair from 2024 to 2027.

Exploring the roots of migration: An intergenerational analysis of opportunities, maximization and public goods

This project aims to assess the effects of parental migration on foreign-born children and understand migration decisions, utilizing a vast dataset of Italian migrants.  

It informs policies in labor, education, integration and skill shortages.

GLOBAL IMPACT

Free University of Berlin, with international support, continues to thrive on global connections.

It has 200 bilateral partnerships worldwide and 400 within the Erasmus+ network, enriching research and teaching.

Over 75 departmental and research institute partnerships further enhance international collaboration.

The university also hosts around 600 international scholars annually, contributing to its diverse academic environment.

Notably, Free University of Berlin has established international liaison offices in Cairo, Tbilisi, New Delhi and São Paulo, demonstrating its commitment to global cooperation and fostering strategic partnerships with select universities.

The university actively encourages students, scholars and staff to engage in international experiences, whether for short-term or extended periods.

Free University of Berlin also maintains a growing network of official partner institutions. Recognized by prestigious organizations like the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Fulbright Commission, it stands as a top choice for visiting researchers, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for academic exchanges.

Some of the Programs that boost Internationalization in the university are listed below;

Incoming Student Mobility

The university welcomes over a thousand international students annually through various exchange programs, including Erasmus+, DAAD, Fulbright and more.

According to the university, enrollment as an exchange student requires a prior agreement between the home university and Free University of Berlin; independent application as a Free Mover is not possible.

Direct exchange programs

Free University of Berlin offers approximately 150 direct exchange programs with partner universities worldwide.

These programs allow its students to study abroad for one or two semesters, gaining valuable international experiences while earning mandatory credit points.

Internships abroad

The university offers Internships abroad, which offers opportunities for language development, understanding foreign work practices and deepening subject knowledge.

FUBiS

FUBiS, the Freie Universitaet Berlin International Summer and Winter University provides an intensive academic experience, offering students a unique opportunity to explore German culture and language at a top-ranked university.

LIFE AT FREE UNIVERSITY OF BERLIN

The Free University of Berlin offers students a vibrant and engaging campus life.

From state-of-the-art libraries and research facilities to cultural events and student organizations, there is always something happening on campus.

Here are some highlights:

• Libraries: The libraries inside the Free University of Berlin house extensive collections, making it an ideal place for research and study. The Philological Library, designed by renowned architect Norman Foster, is an architectural marvel and a favorite study spot.
• Student Organizations: Students can participate in a wide range of clubs, societies and student-run initiatives, catering to diverse interests from sports and culture to activism and entrepreneurship.
• Cultural Offerings: Berlin is known for its cultural diversity and students at the Free University in Berlin can take full advantage of the city’s theaters, museums, music venues and art galleries.

Central Facilities

The Central Facilities in Free University of Berlin provide a wide array of services and resources for the university community. Some of these services are also accessible to individuals not associated with the institution.

The Central Facilities, often referred to as Zentraleinrichtungen (ZE), encompass the following:

• Botanic Garden and Botanical Museum Berlin-Dahlem
• Center for Academic Advising and Psychological Counseling for Students
• FUB-IT
• Dahlem Research School
• Language Center
• Margherita von Brentano Center for Gender Studies
• University Sports Center

THE DEGREE PROGRAMS OFFERED BY FREE UNIVERSITY OF BERLIN

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS