University of Kiel

The University of Kiel, officially known as Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel (CAU), is a major public research university located in Kiel, the capital city of the German state of Schleswig-Holstein. Founded in 1665, it is one of the oldest universities in Germany and the largest institution of higher education in Schleswig-Holstein. The university offers a broad range of academic programs across disciplines including natural sciences, medicine, law, economics, humanities, social sciences, and engineering, and is particularly recognized for its strengths in marine sciences, climate research, and life sciences. CAU is a comprehensive research university with a strong international orientation, participating in numerous European and global research collaborations. It operates as a campus university with facilities distributed across Kiel, including the main campus near the city center and the Kiel University Hospital. The university is a member of the German U15 group of research-intensive universities and maintains partnerships with institutions worldwide. Its research profile emphasizes interdisciplinary initiatives, particularly through the Cluster of Excellence 'The Future Ocean' and related marine and climate research centers.