While the overall student population at Brandenburg's universities dipped slightly during the winter semester 2022/23, the influx of students hailing from nations outside Europe remains substantial. Most recently, a whopping 7522 students from non-European countries graced the halls of Brandenburg's state universities, marking a 370-person increase compared to the previous winter semester 2021/2022.
This revelation was shared by the Ministry of Science in Potsdam in a background briefing to a state parliament member, Daniela Oeynhausen (AfD). The total number of students descended to 50,427 during the winter semester 2022/23, a decrease of 122 students.
Countries that do not belong to the EU or the EFTA free trade area qualify as 'third countries.' These nations collectively encompass 28 EU countries and additional states, such as Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland.
Brandenburg's university scene boasts a second-highest proportion of foreign students in Germany, totaling 21.5%. Only Berlin surpasses Brandenburg with a 23.7% foreign student population. In the winter semester 2022/23, a record 10,841 international students chose to attend universities in Brandenburg, a 1363-person increase from the previous semester.
Environmental and resource management, law, and business administration continue to be the most sought-after subjects among foreign students, as per the Ministry's data.
Oeynhausen expressed her satisfaction with the positive global reputation of Brandenburg's universities, but she remains uncertain about the post-graduation outcomes for the state. "In essence, we're unclear as to how much the state derives benefits from this," Oeynhausen commented to dpa.
Despite a slight decrease in overall students, Brandenburg continues to appeal strongly to non-European students higher education institutions. During the 2022/2023 winter semester, the total number of students from third countries swelled by 370 to 7522. With a significant number of students currently enrolled in universities outside the EU and EFTA, Brandenburg's universities continue to maintain a magnetic pull for international scholars.
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Factors contributing to the influx of students from third countries include:
- The availability of English-taught programs at German universities, especially public institutions.
- Germany's reputation as an affordable destination for higher education.
- The attractiveness of its strong academic reputation and globally recognized degrees.
- A welcoming culture that supports international students' integration.
- Germany's industrial demands for STEM graduates.
Implications for Brandenburg's education system include:
- The promotion of cultural diversity and global understanding.
- Economic benefits through student contributions to the local economy.
- Enhanced quality of education and research due to diverse skill sets and experiences.
- Increased professional opportunities for both local and international graduates.
In summary, the rising interest in attending Brandenburg's universities by students from third countries is driven by several factors, including the affordability and quality of education, a welcoming atmosphere, and economic advantages.
