Brochure for Exchange and Program Students

University of Applied Sciences Wildau Technische Fachhochschule Wildau

Contents

1. Introduction 4

2. The University of Applied Sciences Wildau 6 2.1 History of the University of Applied Sciences Wildau 6 2.2 Location of the University of Applied Sciences Wildau 7 2.3 Profile of the University of Applied Sciences Wildau 8 2.4 Structure of Study Programs 11

3. Finances 12 3.1 Study Fees 12 3.2 Financing Your Stay Through Scholarship Programs 12 3.3 Cost of Living 14 3.5 Opening a Bank Account 14

4. Regulations Concerning Your Stay in Germany 14 4.1 Registering with the Residents’ Registration Authority 14 4.2 Visa and Residence Permit 15 4.3 Insurance 16

5. Accommodation 17 5.1 Places in Students’ Residences 17 5.2 Shopping 20

6. Leisure 20 6.1 (Students’) Sport 20 6.2 In and Around Berlin 21 6.3 Parties 23

7. Facilities at the University of Applied Sciences Wildau 24 7.1 International Office 24 7.2 Internship 24 7.3 Registration and Examinations Office 24 7.4 Libraries 25 7.5 University Computer Center 27 7.6 Languages 28 7.7 Refectory, Cafeteria, Bistro 29 7.8 Student Identity Card 29

8. Life in Germany 30 8.1 Germany 30 8.2 Climate 31 8.3 People 31 8.4 Opening Hours 32 8.5 Part-time Jobs and Driver’s License 32 8.6 Public Transport 33 8.7 Public Holidays 33

9. University Address 35

10. Important Addresses in Emergencies 35

11. Applications 36

12. Documents Required for Your Stay in Germany 36

1. Introduction

We would like to warmly welcome you to Wildau and the University of Applied Sciences, the Technische Fachhochschule, or TFH Wildau. We are delighted that you have chosen to spend some time studying or pursuing further studies at our university.

There are more than 300 universities in Germany, including 136 universities of applied sciences, or Fachhochschulen. Universities of applied sciences offer shorter and more firmly structured degree programs than the other universities. Universities of applied sciences are also noted for the practical and vocational emphasis of their programs.

The University of Applied Sciences Wildau is one of five applied universities in the German federal state of Brandenburg. It is situated directly on the city limits of the capital, Berlin, and is linked up to the Berlin local city train (S-Bahn) network.

The Berlin and Brandenburg area

Berlin and Wildau

The University of Applied Sciences Wildau has around 3,000 students. Wildau’s attraction lies in its interesting range of degree programs and particularly in the university’s activities in applied research and development, which ensure that teaching here is always forward-looking and practical. The university has state-of- the-art facilities for teaching and research, a large library, well-equipped seminar rooms and laboratories, and excellent contacts to industry and business, all of which contribute to a first-class study environment.

In addition the University of Applied Sciences Wildau is working on further developing new structures for new degree programs that contain more practical work and internships, and on dynamic technology transfer between the university and industry. The University of Applied Sciences Wildau has cooperation partners in industry, business, and education in Germany, Eastern Europe (Poland, Russia, Slovakia, Hungary), Western Europe (France, the Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, Ireland, UK), and also in Southeast Asia and Latin America.

This brochure is a guide to your new life in Wildau. It contains important information and tips on the university, studying here, and on student life.

Whether you are planning to be here for just a few months, for a year, of for the whole of your studies, our university will always be able to help to answer your questions and listen if you have worries or problems.

We wish you every success and lots of fun during your stay at the University of Applied Sciences Wildau.

2. The University of Applied Sciences Wildau

2.1 History of the University of Applied Sciences Wildau

Wildau is a traditional industrial town that came to be known for its mechanical engineering industry. It became a student town as early as 1949, when the engineering school was founded. Since that year, when the first students of engineering enrolled in Wildau, engineering has always been taught here.

Wildau’s school of engineering soon gained a good reputation, based on direct contacts to the engineering industry in Wildau and on the teaching of sound basics and practical know-how.

In 1991 the University of Applied Sciences Wildau was founded as a public institution under the auspices of the federal state of Brandenburg. On October 22, 1991, the new university came into being on the campus of the former school of engineering. The first students to enroll were 33 students of mechanical engineering in the winter semester of 1991/1992. In addition to traditional disciplines in engineering the university today also offers degrees in business administration, business informatics, business and law, administration and law, logistics, telematics, bioinformatics, and biosystems engineering.

In recent years a number of technology and business parks have been founded in the region around Wildau, with services businesses, logistics centers, and companies in the energy and environmental engineering sectors. The University of Applied Sciences Wildau is working closely together with a number of these.

2.2 Location of the University of Applied Sciences Wildau

Wildau is a green town to the southeast of Berlin, not far from the city border. This is a town for recreation, for rambling, cycling, sailing, or simply relaxing. And right here you can find the University of Applied Sciences Wildau.

The university has two campuses. The faculties of business administration/ business informatics and of business, administration and law and most of the university administration are on the campus at Bahnhofstraße. A large part of the faculty of engineering/ industrial engineering is in the new technology building 15 (Haus Technik, Haus 15) on this campus, with numerous laboratories and seminar rooms. This faculty also has further laboratories, lecture theaters, and seminar rooms on the second campus at Friedrich-Engels-Straße.

Bahnhofstraße Campus Friedrich-Engels-Straße Campus

Over the next few years the university plans to move all its teaching and research to the new campus in Bahnhofstraße.

2.3 Profile of the University of Applied Sciences Wildau

Both teaching and applied research at the University of Applied Sciences Wildau are closely linked with the university’s direct contacts with industry and business. Practical laboratory work and internships in industry are essential components of studying in Wildau, and all our students are able to gain insights into their future fields of work and careers during their studies. Students in Wildau are also able to conduct their own experiments using highly advanced laboratory and computer technology.

With around 3,000 students at present, the University of Applied Sciences Wildau is noted for its large potential in innovation and development research, strong links between teaching and praxis, intensive laboratory work, good relations between students and staff, and also cooperation with competent partners in business.

This all guarantees lively technology and knowledge transfer with student integration, enabling our students to develop skills in teamwork and leadership.

Studying at the University of Applied Sciences Wildau means: - well organized and easy to understand structures to degree programs - a relatively short study period of 8 semesters over 4 years - efficient work in small groups - individual and personal supervision for students - strong links to praxis - dynamic development of study programs in line with trends in business and industry - early contact for students with business and industry

The modern and forward-looking range of degree programs at the University of Applied Sciences Wildau includes a wide choice of attractive courses in business, administration, and engineering. In addition to mechanical engineering, physics engineering, process engineering, and industrial engineering, the university has recently set up new programs in logistics and the dual degrees in telematics and bioinformatics/ biosystems engineering. The university’s profile also includes degrees in business administration, business computing, business and law, European Management, and administration and law.

The degrees awarded to successful students are the German university of applied sciences degrees (Diplom FH), as engineers (Diplomingenieur/in, FH), in business administration (Diplom-Betriebswirt/in, FH), in business compunting (Diplom- Wirtschaftsinformatiker/in, FH), in industrial engineering (Diplom-Wirtschafts- ingenieur/in, FH), in business and law (Diplom-Wirtschaftsjurist/in, FH), and in public administration (Diplom-Verwaltungswirt/in, FH). In certain courses bachelor’s and master’s degrees are awarded.

The University of Applied Sciences Wildau has three faculties.

1. Faculty of Engineering/ Industrial Engineering:

Degree Degree Special field/ major Contact Program

Engineering Plastics Engineering Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Karin (diploma degree) Jannasch Mechanical [email protected] Engineering Mechanical Engineering wildau.de Tel.: 03375/508-231 House 2, R. 209 Prof. Dr.-Ing. Bernhard Bioprocess Engineering Process Tietgens Engineering Environmental Process [email protected] Engineering Tel.: 03375/508-178

Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Physics Siegfried Rolle Engineering [email protected] Tel.: 03375/508-145

Aircraft Dr.-Ing. Norbert Miersch Engineering/Aircraft Tel.: 03375/508-161 Logistics [email protected] (bachelor's degree, wildau.de master's degree) House 2, R. 215/216

Dr.-Ing. Herbert Sonntag Transport Logistics Logistics [email protected] (diploma degree) wildau.de Company Logistics Tel.: 03375/508-924

Procurement and Prof. Dr.-Ing. Claus- Sales Management Gerold Sales and Grundig Production Production [email protected] Industrial Management wildau.de Engineering Tel.: 03375/508-171 (diploma degree) Corporate Facility Prof. Dr.-Ing. Dietrich Facility Management Reiblich Management Real Estate [email protected] Tel.: 03375/508-115 Management

Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Ralf Telematics Vandenhouten (bachelor's degree, [email protected] master's degree) wildau.de Tel.: 03375/508-559

Bioinformatics/ Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Franz Wildenauer Biosystems [email protected] Engineering Tel.: 03375/508-148 (bachelor's degree)

2. Faculty of Business Administration and Business Informatics:

Degree Degree Special field/ major Contact Program

International Marketing Prof. Dr. rer. pol. Matthias Business Accounting/ Financial Forster Administration Management [email protected] (diploma degree) wildau.de Company Management Tel.: 03375/508-529

Prof. Dr. rer. pol. Christian Business Information and Communication Systems Müller Computing [email protected] (diploma degree) wildau.de Software Engineering Tel.: 03375/508-956

3. Faculty of Business, Administration and Law:

Degree Degree Special field/ major Contact Program

International Law Prof. Dr. jur. Jörg Peter Human Resource [email protected] Business and Law Management Tel.: 03375/508-360 (diploma degree) Virtual Services Management

Administration RD Bernt Kuklinski and Law [email protected] (diploma degree) Tel.: 03375/508-972

European Prof. Dr. rer. pol. Gerhard Mewes Management [email protected] (bachelor's degree) Tel.: 03375/508-597

2.4 Structure of Study Programs

Normally a degree program at the University of Applied Sciences Wildau will take 8 semesters over 4 years to complete. It is divided into two parts: the basic study period and the main study period. In the basic study period students gain basic skills and learn the fundamentals of their subject. In the main study period there is more emphasis on specific professional skills, and students choose a specialization (major field of studies) and also optional subjects. The fifth semester is normally an internship semester in a relevant company or business. In the eighth semester students write their diploma dissertations, which will normally deal with a subject from business or industry.

Teaching is divided into lectures, seminars, and laboratory work, is carried out by professors and lecturers with practical experience, and is always relevant to the future professions of our students. Teaching is not only intended to pass on specialist subject knowledge, but also to help to develop personalities and to encourage creative and independent thinking. It is important to have good cross-cultural competence, creative ideas, flexibility, and leadership qualities, as well as good skills in foreign languages, which are also trained through internships and study periods abroad. Students can take courses in English, Russian, French, Polish, Spanish, and Chinese, and also in cross-cultural communication. As nearly all our regular lectures

and degree programs are taught in German, however, a good knowledge of German is essential. The university language center offers courses in German as a foreign language for foreign students (see under Language Center in this brochure).

The main work of the university is equally concentrated on teaching and education, further education, and applied research and technology transfer. Cooperation between the university and industry supports and encourages the practical relevance of our degree programs. Through our partnerships with industry and the local community, we are able to incorporate their ideas and suggestions into our teaching and research activities, and then to offer the results of our research as innovation potential. Projects done in cooperation with industry aim to introduce new and improved production methods or products to the market.

For students this means better chances for starting a career after graduating, through work on projects, the internship semester, and the diploma dissertation on a subject in industry or business.

3. Finances

3.1 Study Fees

Exchange students who spend a limited period of time at the University of Applied Sciences Wildau will continue to pay study fees at their home university and will not have to pay any fees at the host institution here in Wildau. Apart from this, exchange students enjoy the same rights and have the same responsibilities as any other student in Wildau.

For foreign students who register as full-time students in Wildau for the duration of an entire degree the same registration requirements apply as for any other regular student at the university (see also under Registration Office in this brochure). No tuition is charged for degree courses at the University of Applied Sciences Wildau. However, there is an administration fee of 103,- Euro each semester.

3.2 Financing Your Stay Through Scholarship Programs

Exchange students who come to Wildau through the Erasmus Programme will receive a scholarship from their home university. Normally it is not possible for the University of Applied Sciences Wildau to co-finance these students; exceptions can only be made after consultation with the president of the University of Applied Sciences Wildau, Prof. Dr. László Ungvári.

Program students who come to the University of Applied Sciences Wildau through the German Academic Exchange Service or DAAD receive scholarships to the amount stipulated by the DAAD. These funds are tied to specific projects.

The University of Applied Sciences Wildau would like to make it clear that the various scholarship programs may mean that students receive grants of differing amounts, and that when students compare these with one another this often leads to misunderstandings. The University of Applied Sciences Wildau cannot influence the decisions and rules of the various programs, and kindly asks students to respect this.

3.3 Cost of Living

The cost of living in Germany is high. You will require at least € 600 monthly for accommodation and food.

3.5 Opening a Bank Account

It is not easy for foreign students to open a bank account in Germany. It is only really worth it if you intend to stay here for 2 semesters or longer.

The largest banks in Germany are the Commerzbank, Deutsche Bank, and Dresdner Bank, as well as the savings banks (Sparkassen), and the Postbank. Banks, savings banks and the Postbank all offer pretty much the same services, but with differing fees for running an account. This is not a problem as students are not liable to bank fees.

As the owner of a current or checking account (Girokonto) you can make transactions from every branch and get money via ATMs. If you require a check or credit card you should seek the advice of the bank or savings bank. To open a current account you will need your passport or personal identity card, the residents’ registration confirmation, and your student identity card.

In and around Wildau there are a number of places where you can get money from your account: - Post Wildau (post office), Fichtestraße 10 - Sparkasse Dahme-Spreewald (savings bank), Wildau, Fichtestraße 10 - Sparkasse Dahme-Spreewald (savings bank), Königs Wusterhausen, Bahnhofstraße 11 - Commerzbank, Fürstenwalde - HypoVereinsbank (savings bank), Königs Wusterhausen

4. Regulations Concerning Your Stay in Germany

4.1 Registering with the Residents’ Registration Authority

You must register with the Residents’ Registration Authority (Landeseinwohner- meldeamt) within 10 days of entering the country. You will need your passport and your visa, if applicable, and your rent agreement. For exchange and program students the University of Applied Sciences Wildau will normally carry out registration procedures on your behalf. You can also register independently at the Residents’ Registration Authority if you wish. The addresses for Wildau, Zeuthen, and Königs Wusterhausen are as follows:

Einwohnermeldeamt Wildau: Karl-Marx-Straße 36 15745 Wildau Tel.: 03375/5054-59 or –60 Opening hours: Mondays 9 am – 12 noon Tuesdays 9 am – 12 noon and 2 pm – 6 pm Thursdays 9 am – 12 noon and 2 pm – 5 pm

Einwohnermeldeamt Königs Wusterhausen: Dezernat I Karl-Marx-Straße 23 15711 Königs Wusterhausen Tel.: 03375/273-0 Opening hours: Tuesdays 10 am – 12 noon and 2 pm to 7 pm Thursdays 8 am – 12 noon and 2 pm to 4 pm

If you live in Berlin you will find the correct Local Registration Office by using telephone directory information (tel.: 11833) or by looking in the Yellow Pages (Gelbe Seiten) under Landeseinwohnermeldeamt.

4.2 Visa and Residence Permit

A visa will allow you entry into Germany and a stay for up to 3 months. Exchange and program students from non-European Union countries must apply for a visa in their own country. This visa will be issued for a maximum of 3 months. You must apply for a residence permit before your visa expires.

If you intend to stay more than 3 months you will have to apply for a residence permit after you enter the country. The residence permit can be applied for at the relevant Immigration Office (Ausländerbehörde).

Ausländerbehörde Dahme-Spreewald area: Schulweg 13 15711 Königs Wusterhausen Frau Doil - Tel.: 03375/262-107 Frau Paris - Tel.: 03375/262-106 Opening hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays 8 am – 4 pm

Ausländerbehörde Berlin: Friedrich-Krause-Ufer 24 13353 Berlin Switchboard - Tel.: 030/90158-0 Herr Werner - Tel.: 030/90158-371

Frau Kruszka - Tel.: 030/90158-223 Opening hours: Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays 7.30 am – 1 pm Fridays 7.30 am - 12 noon

You will need the following documents to apply for a residence permit: - confirmation of registration with the residents’ registration authority - passport - 2 passport photographs - registration certificate of the university/ admission notification of the university/ confirmation of your application by the university - proof of health insurance/ proof that compulsory health insurance does not apply

4.3 Insurance

Exchange and program students will have health insurance through their home country. This health insurance must be valid in Germany, and the insurance policy should list the main services covered in German, or at least in English.

If students are insured through a German public health insurance company (AOK – Allgemeine Ortskrankenkasse, or TKK – Techniker Krankenkasse), then confirmation of insurance and the insurance forms E111 or E 128 should be presented. The health insurance company will then free you from compulsory insurance and allow you to consult doctors and dentists in Germany free of charge.

Contact AOK: Frau Schulschenk Maxim-Gorki Straße 3 15711 Königs Wusterhausen Tel.: 03375/21068146

Contact TKK: Frau Zacher Lahnstraße 54 12055 Berlin Tel.: 030/68378-3915

Students have automatic legal accident insurance for their journeys from their place of residence to the university and back. The university cannot be held responsible for accidents that occur elsewhere. Students must procure their own insurance for other accidents and for liability or indemnity insurance.

5. Accommodation

5.1 Places in Students’ Residences

Student accommodation in Wildau is in short supply. There are not enough places for all the students in students’ residences. It is essential that you start looking for accommodation early. The University of Applied Sciences has its own accommodation and can help you to look for a place to live. In case the accommodation we offer does not meet your liking, then we are unable to help you to look for an alternative.

You will have to pay a deposit on all accommodation provided by the university. When your tenancy ends you must make sure that the accommodation is properly cleaned. If this is not the case or if the cleaning is insufficient, then part of your deposit will be used to cover the damages.

The university offers the following accommodation:

1. Students’ Union Potsdam

Haus 1 Haus 2

Haus 3

Residence Address Comfort Price

- apartment with two single rooms - shared shower/ toilet and Birkenallee 50 € 155 – 185 “Haus 1” cooking 15745 Wildau per month - bed with mattress, table, wardrobe, shelf - internet access

- single room - shared kitchen - shower/toilet facilities in Birkenallee 50 the hall € 120 “Haus 2” 15745 Wildau - bed with mattress, table, per month chair, wardrobe, shelf - fridge in the room - internet access

- single room - shared kitchen - shower/toilet facilities in Schillerstraße 1 € 150 – 180 “Haus 3” the hall 15745 Wildau - bed with mattress, table, per month chair, wardrobe, shelf

Applications for a place in a students’ residence should use the form provided by the Students’ Union in Potsdam (Studentenwerk Potsdam) and be sent to the address below. They should state the residence desired and indicate the period of residence and any further special needs. Please also enclose a stamped addressed envelope.

Studentenwerk Potsdam Abteilung Studentisches Wohnen Friedrich-Ebert-Straße 4 14467 Potsdam Tel.: 0331/3706-500, -501, -502, -503 Fax: 0331/3706-525 Opening hours: Tuesdays 9 am – 12 noon and 1 pm – 6 pm Thursdays 9 am – 12 noon and 1 pm – 4 pm

Applications will only be processed once a copy of the registration certificate (Studienbescheinigung) or the notification of admission to the university (Zulassungsbescheid) has been received. The rent contracts will only be signed once the registration certificate has been received. When signing a rent contract a deposit of €200 will be required, which will be returned to the student when the contract terminates.

The Students’ Union Potsdam offers foreign students a special service package with the following: - a room in a students’ residence - midday meal from Monday to Friday in the Mensa refectory - students’ union fees for the semester - free use of all further students’ union services This service package is issued for 6 months. On request health insurance at the appropriate charge can also be provided.

The Students’ Union Potsdam can also help students to find private accommodation. Please contact:

Contact: Herr Peter Ellmer Head of Department for Student Accommodation Tel.: 0331/3706-500 or -501 Fax: 0331/3706-525

2. Koliba Sailing Club in Zeuthen

Residence Address Comfort Price

- single room - shower/toilet facilities in Koliba Sailing the hall Club Fontaneallee 55 - microwave in the hall € 150 (Seglerheim 15745 Zeuthen - bed with mattress, table, per month der Koliba) chair, wardrobe - fridge in the room

Applications for a room in the sailing club should be sent to Frau Gropp (see under International Office in this brochure).

If you have any questions please get in touch with Frau Gropp or directly with the sailing club under this telephone number: Tel.: 03375/554765.

3. Private Accommodation

You can also rent an apartment in Wildau or Königs Wusterhausen. The following housing associations can give you information on prices and locations.

Wildauer Wohnungsbaugesellschaft mbH Straße des Friedens 6 15745 Wildau Frau Prischmann Tel.: 03375/519-610

Wohnungsbaugesellschaft Königs Wusterhausen mbH Schloßstraße 3 15711 Königs Wusterhausen Frau Proske Tel.: 03375/2590-42

5.2 Shopping

There are shops where you can buy food near the students’ residences. In Friedrich- Engels-Straße in Wildau there is an Aldi supermarket, and several small food stores and a baker’s. The shopping mall at the “A10 Center” offers you an intensive shopping experience with a large number of stores and supermarkets. The A10 Center is near the expressway or motorway (Autobahn) A10 and can easily be reached by bicycle from the students’ residences. If you do not feel like cooking then there are several restaurants and snack bars in Wildau, Zeuthen, and Königs Wusterhausen.

6. Leisure

6.1 (Students’) Sport

The University of Applied Sciences Wildau has its own fitness room and a sports’ hall. At present the university has groups and teams in badminton, basketball, indoor soccer, indoor handball, fitness and weightlifting, diving, table tennis, sailing, and volleyball. The sports’ hall is on the campus at Friedrich-Engels-Straße 63. The fitness room is in the students’ residence at Birkenallee 50 and is open to all students from the university.

Contact Sports’ Hall: Herr Dipl.-Ing. Frank Bienge [email protected] Tel.: 03375/508-105

If you would like to play other sports, then Wildau has a swimming baths, a health center with a sauna and solarium, and a fitness center. In Königs Wusterhausen there is also the fitness studio “Atlantis” with a large number of possibilities for sport.

Gesundheitszentrum Wildau Freiheitsstraße 98 15745 Wildau

Fitness-Center Wildau Jahnstraße 22 a 15745 Wildau

Fitnessstudio “Atlantis” Rosa-Luxemburg-Straße 20 15711 Königs Wusterhausen

6.2 In and Around Berlin

Leisure activities in Germany are very varied. You can go skiing in the Alps in the winter, and you can go surfing in the North Sea or Baltic Sea in the summer, or on one of Germany’s many lakes. Every town or region has its own interesting sights and specialties. Theater, musicals, cinema, or opera are popular leisure activities. In the summer months there are music and art festivals throughout Germany.

Wildau and its university are to the southeast of Berlin, in an area of many lakes and extensive woods. With its location between the city and the countryside Wildau offers countless opportunities for leisure and sports.

Berlin and the Surrounding Area

Wildau is the ideal starting point for excursions in the region of the Oder, Spree, and Dahme Rivers, one of central Europe’s most beautiful areas. There are historical towns, idyllic villages, castles and palaces, monuments and monasteries. Places that are worth visiting are the Royal Hunting Palace in Königs Wusterhausen, the exquisite villas of the celebrities of yesteryear in Zeuthen, and the city of Potsdam.

Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam The Dutch Quarter in Potsdam

If you want to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the big city, then it takes only 45 minutes by city train to get to the center of Berlin. Here there is a never-ending program of theater, operas and concerts, museums and galleries, cinemas and cabarets, clubs and pubs for you to enjoy.

There are two city magazines where you can find information about events and culture, and lots of other information too: “Tip” and “Zitty.” With your students’ ID you will normally get reduced tickets to cultural events.

Brandenburg Gate The Berlin Wall

Charlottenburg Palace

6.3 Parties

Students have to work hard for their studies, but there is more to student life than that. The students’ union of the University of Applied Sciences Wildau organizes regular parties and discos in the university refectory (Mensa). There are parties for newly enrolled first semester students, for “fasching” or carnival in November, for “Nikolaus” in December, and for the end of the semester. And there are always plenty of reasons to hold a party at another time. Keep an eye out for the posters that the students’ union pins up on campus in advance of their parties.

7. Facilities at the University of Applied Sciences Wildau

7.1 International Office

The International Office is part of the university administration and is responsible for international relations of the university and all matters relating to these. During your stay in Germany the International Office can help you with the formalities and paperwork, and can help you to find a place to live.

Contact International Office: Frau Irene Gropp [email protected] Tel.: 03375/508-197

Together with the language center and the university computer center the International Office organizes introductory events for foreign students. Here you will not only receive important information on studying in Wildau but also meet other foreign students and German students in Wildau.

7.2 Internship

If you have to do an internship during your studies in Germany, or if you want to do this, then you can get information on internship posts from the contacts below. You can also ask the International Office about internship places.

Contact: Herr Prof. Dr. László Ungvári [email protected] Tel.: 03375/508-100

or the deans of the faculties

7.3 Registration and Examinations Office

The registrations office registers new students to the university. Here you can receive information about the registration requirements and formalities.

The university examinations office gives information about the recognition of grades from other institutions, and of the achieved grades at the University of Applied Sciences Wildau.

All exchange and program students are recommended to ask for documentation of their work done and grades achieved at the University of Applied Sciences Wildau, and to do this in plenty of time before leaving the university.

Contact Registration and Examinations Office: Herr Dipl.-Ing. Wolfgang Kohfall [email protected] Tel.: 03375/508-183 or –182 or –181

7.4 Libraries

The university library has two locations. In “Haus 13” you will find works on business administration, informatics, law, languages, and general reference. In “Haus 7” you will find technical and scientific literature.

Library Haus 13: Library Haus 7: Bahnhofstraße Friedrich-Engels-Straße 63 15745 Wildau 15745 Wildau Tel.: 03375/508-123 Tel.: 03375/508-521 [email protected] [email protected]

Contact for the University Library: Frau Dipl.-Bibl. Karin Pohl [email protected] Tel.: 03375/508-155

You may borrow books from the library for up to 3 months. In addition there are reference works, newspapers, magazines, journals, and legal texts that may be consulted in the reading room. The reading room also offers the possibility to read and work quietly.

The library catalogue is web based, and here you can consult the catalogue, renew your loans, check your account, and reserve books that are borrowed. You can also research the stocks of other libraries worldwide, read electronic magazines on the internet, and carry out online research in databases.

Opening Hours of the University Library

Haus 13 Haus 7 9.30 am to 6 pm 9.30 am – 4 pm Monday to Thursday (Tuesdays to 6 pm)

Friday 9.30 am - 2.45 pm 9.30 am - 2.45 pm

Addresses of Libraries in Berlin:

Bibliothek Hauptgebäude Fachhochschule für Technik und Treskowallee 8 Wirtschaft Berlin www.fhtw-berlin.de Universitätsbibliothek Clara-Zetkin-Straße 27 Humboldt-Universität Berlin www.ub.hu-berlin.de Universitätsbibliothek Straße des 17 Juni 135 Technische Universität Berlin www.tu-berlin.de Universitätsbibliothek Garystraße 39 Freie Universität Berlin www.ub.fu-berlin.de Blücherplatz 1 Amerika-Gedenkbibliothek Berlin www.zlb.de Breitestraße 32-36 Berliner Stadtbibliothek Berlin www.zlb.de Friedrich-Engels-Straße 78 Stadtbibliothek Wildau 15745 Wildau Tel.: 03375/500420 Unter den Linden 8 Haus 1 or Potsdamer Straße 33 Haus 2 Staatsbibliothek Berlin Berlin www.sbb.spk-berlin.de

7.5 University Computer Center

The university computer center offers many opportunities for working and studying. There are two PC labs (Haus 13, rooms 13-120 and 13-121), a work station (Haus 13, room 13-116) and an internet lab (Haus 13, room 13-115). These labs are also open outside the lecture period.

Opening hours of computer labs:

Monday to Thursday 7.15 am - 6 pm Friday 7.15 am – 2.30 pm

All the computers that are linked to the campus network allow internal and external communication and access to the internet. The students’ residences in Wildau have connections to the campus computer network.

Every member of the university needs permission to access the computers in the PC labs, with a user name and a password. In addition every student at the university receives his or her own e-mail address and can create a homepage. Staff at the computer center will be pleased to give you the necessary information.

Contact University Computer Center: Herr Dipl.-Ing. Günther Schubert [email protected] Tel.: 03375/508-186

Contact PC Labs: Frau Regina Mattigk [email protected] Tel.: 03375/508-185

Contact Internet Lab: Herr Dipl.-Ing. Dietrich Müller [email protected] Tel.: 03375/508-940

7.6 Languages

At the University of Applied Sciences Wildau a large range of language courses is offered:

- English - French - Spanish - Russian - Polish - German as a Foreign Language

In addition to language courses that are a compulsory part of degree programs, some courses can also be taken on a voluntary basis.

Contact Language Center: Mr Dr Bond [email protected] Tel.: 03375/508-366

The mediothek is a self-study center that offers further possibilities to study languages and improve your skills. It has:

- audio and video cassettes - language learning programs for multimedia applications - international television via satellite - course books and teaching material - dictionaries

Mediothek: Bahnhofstraße Haus 100, room 100-19 Tel.: 03375/508-348 Opening hours: Mondays & Thursdays 8 am – 7 pm Tuesdays & Wednesdays 8 am - 4.30 pm Fridays 8 am – 2 pm

7.7 Refectory, Cafeteria, Bistro

Meals in the refectory (known as the Mensa) are subsidized and are much cheaper than restaurants and snack bars in the area. There are several meals on offer each day, and a different choice every day.

The university also has its own cafeteria in “Haus 13.” Here you can buy sandwiches, drinks and warm meals. There are also drinks machines in houses 1, 13, and 100, where you can buy coffee, chocolate, tea, and soft drinks. There is also a budget restaurant close to the Bahnhofstrasse campus, called “Schwartzkopff”. You will find it on Karl-Marx-Strasse 114.

Opening Hours:

Monday to Friday

Mensa Refectory 12 noon – 2 pm

Cafeteria 8.30 am – 2 pm

Schwartzkopff 11.30 am – 1.30 pm

7.8 Student Identity Card

Your student ID is a computer printout.

There are a lot of places where you can get student reductions, including trains, theaters, museums, opera houses, and cinemas. You should always carry your student ID with you and ask if there are student reductions (Studentenermässigungen). It is worth it!

8. Life in Germany

8.1 Germany

Germany and Neighboring States

Germany is in the middle of Europe, with nine bordering states. More than 80 million people live in Germany, with 6.5 million foreigners. More than half of the population lives in the cities. There are 85 cities that have more than 100,000 inhabitants. The capital city and seat of the government is Berlin with 3.5 million inhabitants at present. Germany is a member of the European Union and NATO, and with its central location it forms a bridge to the central and eastern European states. Germany is an important focus for European and world relations.

Germany’s landscape is extremely varied. In the north there are lakes, heathland and moors, and on the coast groups of islands and dune landscapes. In the south there is the Swabian-Bavarian high plain with large lakes and the German Alps. Central Germany has large deciduous and pine forests, slate mountains, and the green countryside of river valleys and lowlands.

The Rhine Bavarian Alps

The Island of Rügen Berlin

8.2 Climate

The climate in Germany is moderate. In the summer temperatures are around 18- 20° Celsius, but can reach as high as over 30° in some places. In the winter average temperatures are around 1.5° Celsius in the lowlands and –6° in the mountains. It rains throughout the year, but with more rain in the fall.

8.3 People

The standard greeting is “Guten Morgen” for “good morning” (to around 10 am), “Guten Tag” or “good day” (to around 5 pm) and “Guten Abend,” or “good evening” later. When they meet and when they say goodbye Germans shake hands with their right hand. Students are much more informal, and often just say “hallo” without shaking hands, or “bis bald” (“see you soon”) or “Tschüss” (“bye”).

Unlike in many other countries, asking “Wie geht es?” or “how are you” is a very private question in Germany. You would normally only use this with friends in informal situations.

It is also important to know that adults over the age of 18 will use the polite form for you, the “Sie” form. Germans only use the informal “du” with friends, as this signifies much less distance. Students will use the “du” form right from the beginning with each other.

Germans set great store on titles. If the person you are speaking to has a title you should use it. If he or she does not want you to use the title, then you will be told. It is also true that Germans value punctuality. When you make arrangements and appointments, you should always be on time, especially with your teachers. We have something called the “akademische Viertel,” or “academic quarter hour,” 15 minutes that you can be over time, but if you are any later you are definitely late.

8.4 Opening Hours

Monday to Friday Saturday

Large department 9 am – 7 or 8 pm 9 am – 6 pm stores

Small shops and 9 am – 6 or 7 pm 9 am – 1 pm boutiques

Supermarkets 8 am – 7 or 8 pm 8 am – 1 or 4 pm If you need something urgently on Sundays, especially food, then you can go to the next gas station or the nearest large rail station, where food may be sold on Sundays. There is no other way of obtaining food on Sundays.

9 am – 4 pm Banks and savings Thursdays 5.30 or Banks 6 pm

8.5 Part-time Jobs and Driver’s License

You are only permitted to work a limited amount. Your residence permit will allow you to work a maximum of 90 days per year. These regulations on work for foreign students are strictly upheld and you may be asked to leave the country if you break the rules!

If you want to drive a car in Germany you have to have a European Union driver’s license or an international driver’s license. Any other driver’s license from your home country has to be translated by the German diplomatic representative or consulate in your home country, by an automobile association, or the German ADAC (Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club). Foreign and international driver’s licenses are only valid for one year.

In Germany there are a lot of important rules that you should know when you are driving. Here are the most important ones: - Everyone in the car has to wear a safety belt. - The recommended speed on German expressways or motorways (Autobahn) is 130 km/h. In built-up areas the maximum speed is 50 km/h. On state highways (Bundesstraßen) and outside built-up areas the maximum speed is 100 km/h. - Alcohol limits in Germany are 0,8 percent. (By the way: for cyclists there is a limit of 1,5 percent too.) - Driver’s license and the car registration papers must always be carried with you.

8.6 Public Transport

Public transport in Germany includes the trains of the “Deutsche Bahn AG,” the S- Bahn city trains, the U-Bahn (underground trains), the Straßenbahn (trams), buses, and taxis.

The University of Applied Sciences Wildau unfortunately does not have a semester ticket system for students. This means that if you use trains and buses a lot, you should buy a monthly ticket. This is much cheaper than buying single tickets for each journey. You can buy this monthly ticket at ticket offices and also at ticket vending machines on station platforms. You should take your student identity card with you, as you can get reduced tariffs for students by buying the Auszubildenden Ticket, a monthly ticket for students and trainees.

8.7 Public Holidays

The official public holidays in Germany are New Year’s Day (January 1), Easter, Labor Day (May 1), Whitsun, Ascension Day, Corpus Christi, the Day of German Unity (October 3), All Saints (November 1), and Christmas from Christmas Eve to the Second Christmas Holiday (December 26). There are also certain regional holidays. Carnival or “fasching” is celebrated in the Rhineland and southern Germany, especially in Swabia and Alemmania.

Semester Schedules at the University of Applied Sciences Wildau:

Lectures Examinations Holidays Free Days

Summer 15.03.2004 28.06.2004 01.05.2004 Semester to to 20.05.2004 2004 26.06.2004 10.07.2004 09.04.2004 Easter to 12.04.2004 29.05.2004 Whitsun to 31.05.2003

20.09.2004 17.01.2005 Winter Semester 03.10.2004 to to 2004/2005 31.10.2004 15.01.2005 29.01.2005 24.12.2004 Christmas to 03.01.2005

Summer 14.03.2005 27.06.2005 01.05.2005 Semester to to 26.05.2005 2005 25.06.2005 09.07.2005 25.03.2005 Easter to 28.03.2005 14.05.2005 Whitsun to 16.05.2005

26.09.2005 16.01.2006 Winter Semester 03.10.2005 to to 2005/2006 31.10.2005 14.01.2006 27.01.2006 24.12.2005 Christmas to 02.01.2006

9. University Address

University of Applied Sciences Wildau Technische Fachhochschule Wildau

Bahnhofstraße Friedrich-Engels-Straße 63 15745 Berlin

Telephone: 03375/508-101 Fax: 03375/500324

http://www.tfh-wildau.de

10. Important Addresses in Emergencies

Ärztehaus Wildau (doctors): Gesundheitszentrum Wildau Freiheitsstraße 98 15745 Wildau Tel.: 03375/501294

Krankenhaus Königs Wusterhausen (hospital): Achenbach-Kreiskrankenhaus Köpenicker Straße 29 15711 Königs Wusterhausen Telephone number of emergency services: 03375/288-300

Emergency number in case of accident and acute illness: 112

11. Applications

Applications for exchange and program students are organized through the home university.

If you intend to complete an entire degree at the University of Applied Sciences Wildau you will need the following documents: - Admission form (Immatrikulationsantrag) (see: www.tfh-wildau.de) - Official German translation of documents or school certificates showing your eligibility to study at a German university - where applicable, graduation certificate of preparatory college (Assessment Test) - resume or CV in tabular form - copy of your birth certificate or proof of naturalization - 2 passport photographs - confirmation of insurance from a health insurance company - residence permit with proof of your residence in Germany (certified copy) - proof of sufficient knowledge of German (certified copy)

The University of Applied Sciences Wildau only admits new students for the winter semester. The complete application documents must be sent to the following address by 15 June:

Technische Fachhochschule Wildau c/o ASSIST e.V. Helmholtzstrasse 2-9 10587 Berlin, Germany

For further information please also look on our website (“information for international applicants”): http://www.tfh-wildau.de/studium/bewerbung.html

12. Documents Required for Your Stay in Germany

You need the following documents for your stay in Germany: - personal identity card or passport, valid for the entire period of stay - notification of admission to the university/ confirmation of your application by the university - visa (not a tourist visa), if necessary - certified translations of your insurance certificate, your birth certificate, and school/ university certificates - confirmation of health insurance and form E 111 - innoculations pass - at least 4-6 passport photographs

Glossary of Useful Terms English-German / German-English

This glossary contains terms from the brochure that you may need to know in German, terms that may be useful at the university or when you deal with other authorities in Germany. It is not a list of phrases designed to cover life in Germany, but merely a list of terms that may help you get started at the university.

The list is divided into the following sections. Here the words are then given in German first and then English, and explanations are given where necessary.

1. The University and the Structure of Degree Programs 2. Facilities at the University 3. Formalities at the University 4. Students’ Accommodation 5. Registration with the Residents’ Registration Authorities 6. Banking 7. Transport

1. The University and the Structure of Degree Programs

Fachhochschule a university of applied sciences, or vocational university, offering three and four year degrees in subjects that tend to lead toward a profession, and concentrating on practical teaching and applied research.

Studiengang degree, degree program, course

Studienrichtung degree, degree program, course dualer Studiengang dual degree program, normally with more frequent and with shorter internships than a regular degree program

Studienschwerpunkt; a specialization within a degree program, Vertiefungsrichtung usually begun after the third semester; a major; special field of study

Grundstudium basic study period; foundation course, comprises the first three semesters of study

Hauptstudium main study period; main studies, from semesters 4 to 8 in most degree programs, the period with a specialization

Wintersemester winter semester, from September to February

Sommersemester summer semester, from March to July

Praxissemester practical semester, usually the fifth semester, which students spend on internship in industry or business

Praktikum internship; placement

Diplomarbeit dissertation, written in the final, eighth semester, this can be about 60,000 words

Diplom (FH) the degree you get from a university of applied sciences is usually called: Diplom (FH)

Hochschulverwaltung university administration, the word for the entire university administration, and usually for the administrative authorities

Fachbereich faculty

Dekan dean of a faculty

Studiengangssprecher course spokesperson, the professor or teacher to approach for information about a particular degree program

Pflichtfach compulsory subject, which has to be taken within a degree program

Wahlpflichtfach an elective subject, students will elect a stipulated number of these per semester, where appropriate

Wahlfach purely optional subject, not required for the degree program

Lehrveranstaltung the general word for any lecture, seminar, or teaching

Vorlesung lecture

Übung literally “practice,” probably means seminar or tutorial, or any teaching unit where the teacher does not lecture from up front

Laborarbeit student laboratory work

Austauschstudent exchange student

2. Facilities at the University

Immatrikulations- und Prüfungsamt registration and examinations office, deals with all student applications, registrations, and with records of examinations results, and issuing of certificates

Akademisches Auslandsamt International Office

Praktikantenamt internship office

Bibliothek library

Hochschulrechenzentrum university computer center

Sprachenzentrum language center

Mensa refectory

Studentenrat students’ union, organizes social events, student welfare

3. Formalities at the University

Hochschulzugangsberechtigung eligibility to study at a university, to be proven with documents or school certificates

Anerkennung der ausländischen recognition of a foreign student’s Hochschulberechtigung eligibility to study in Germany, from the German State Office for Education

Immatrikulationsbedingungen requirements for registration

Zulassungsantrag student application for admission

Bewerbungsbestätigung confirmation of the student’s application from the university

Zulassungsbescheid notification of admission to the university

Einschreibung registration

Immatrikulationsbescheinigung certificate of registration amtliche Übersetzung official translation beglaubigte Kopie certified copy tabellarischer Lebenslauf curriculum vitae; resume, in tabular form

Geburtsurkunde birth certificate

Passbild passport photograph

Versicherungsbescheinigung; certificate of health insurance Versicherungsnachweis der Krankenkasse

Studienleistungen examinations passed, grades achieved

Anerkennung von recognition of examinations passed Studienleistungen

Nachweise von proof; certificates of examinations passed Studienleistungen

Ordnungen der TFH regulations; rulebooks of the university

Studiengebühren study fees

Studentenausweis student identity card

4. Student Accommodation

Studentenwerk Potsdam Students’ Union in Potsdam, responsible for student residences in Wildau

Wohnheim hall of residence; dormitory

Studentenwohnheim students’ residence; hostel; dorms

Mietvertrag rent agreement; rent contract

Kaution deposit (on a rent agreement)

Endreinigung final cleaning

5. Registration with the Residents’ Registration Authorities

Aufenthaltsbestimmungen regulations concerning your stay in Germany

Landeseinwohnermeldeamt (LEA) residence registration authority

Einwohnermeldeamt residence registration authority

Meldestelle local registration office

Anmeldung residence registration

Anmeldeformular registration form

Mietvertrag rent agreement; rent contract

Ausländerbehörde Immigration Office

Aufenthaltsgenehmigung residence permit

Visum visa

Reisepass passport

Personalausweis personal identity card gültig valid

Zeugnisse certificates from school or university

Impfpass innoculations pass

Passbild passport photo

Versicherung insurance

Krankenversicherung health insurance

Nachweis der Krankenversicherung proof of health insurance

Befreiuung von der proof that compulsory health insurance Versicherungspflicht does not apply

6. Banking

Sparkasse savings bank

Bankkonto bank account

Girokonto current or checking account

Kontoeröffnung; ein Konto opening a bank account; to open eröffnen a bank account

Kontogebühren; banking fees Kontoführungsgebühren

7. Transport

Ermässigung reduction

Studentenermässigung student reductions

Eintrittspreis entrance ticket

Fahrkarte travel ticket

Auszubildenden Ticket ticket for students and trainees

Deutsche Bahn AG national and regional rail company

S-Bahn city train

U-Bahn underground train

Straßenbahn tram