The atmosphere in the concert hall: a mix of tension, anticipation, curiosity and excitement. On Monday, September 22, 2025, around 2000 first-year students at Fachhochschule Dortmund began their studies at Dortmund University of Applied Sciences and Arts - and with them a new, important stage in their lives.
"Your studies are a journey full of impressions, encounters and challenges - exciting and sometimes a little overwhelming," said UAS Rector Prof. Dr. Tamara Appel in her welcoming speech to the new students. Many of them had accepted the invitation to the Dortmund Konzerthaus, filling the rows in the large hall right up to the upper tier. And enrollment is still ongoing. There are still places available on some of the 70 or so Bachelor's and Master's degree courses at Fachhochschule Dortmund.
In his welcoming address, Lord Mayor Thomas Westphal praised those who have already chosen the UAS: "You have done everything right with this decision. Because the University of Applied Sciences has a lot to offer you." The university not only has its location in Dortmund, it is also part of life in this city and works for the city's society.
"Our UAS thrives on teamwork, practical relevance and innovation," added Prof. Dr. Tamara Appel. Many projects are designed in such a way that students are directly involved and solve real problems at an early stage. "We don't just want you to absorb knowledge, we want you to become creators," said the Rector. "Take advantage of this opportunity. Discuss, question, contribute your own ideas and yourself."
Fachhochschule Dortmund offers the necessary space for this and a variety of support options for the challenges of studying. In the foyer of the Konzerthaus, Career Service, Studierendenwerk, University Sports, Family Service, Maths HelpDesk, International Office and many more presented themselves to the new students alongside the student representatives.
In the coming days, there will be further orientation offers from the eight faculties. The highlight of Freshers' Week is the big Freshers' Party on September 25, 2025 at the FZW. Lecturers from the UAS will also be DJing there.
