Friedrich Schiller University Jena

The Friedrich Schiller University Jena is a public university located in Jena, Germany. It was established in 1558 and stands as one of the oldest universities in Germany. Formerly known as the University of Jena, it was renamed for Friedrich Schiller, a German writer, poet, philosopher and historian.

There are 10 faculties at the university which offer 200 different degree programmes at undergraduate, postgraduate and diploma levels, and students can learn in both English and German. The faculties are: arts; art and design; biological sciences; chemistry and earth sciences; economics and business administration; law; mathematics and computer science; physics and astronomy; social and behavioural sciences and theology.

There is a Graduate Academy with a House for Young Researchers, where students have access to support and resources. The University of Jena has several international partnerships, offering students to study abroad during their time at university.

The university has many notable alumni including sociologist Karl Marx, politician Robert Ley, and scientist Hans Berger.

Jena itself has become a university city, with students accounting for about 20 per cent of the population, making it a youthful and vibrant place. In the 20th century, Jena was regarded a leader in the optical industry, with companies such as Carl Zeiss and Jenoptik establishing there. Now, the city is known for its high-tech research focus, with optical companies still leading the city, alongside software engineering and biotechnology. Jena is also famous for its orchids, with tourists taking guided tours to see the beautiful flowers.

The city boasts a vast historical and cultural heritage, with sites including Schillers Garten House, Friedrich Schiller’s summer house, as well as Jena’s optical museum. Other distinct landmarks include the gothic town hall, Jen Tower, and former Carl Zeiss factory.