The university is actively committed to the full inclusion of all students, regardless of their individual challenges. This includes in particular:
* Students with disabilities
* People with chronic illnesses
* People with neurodiverse characteristics
In order to offer all students the best possible conditions
for successful study, the university has created special support structures
1. dedicated contact persons: There are specially assigned staff members who serve as the first point of contact.
2. individual counselling: each case is considered individually in order to find tailor-made solutions.
3. barrier-free design: the university works continuously to remove physical and digital barriers.
The Representative for Inclusive Studying provides support and advice on issues relating to studying with a health impairment. Starting with the application for a study place, through the course of study to graduation.
Counselling appointments can be made:
By telephone: 0471 - 4823 - 557
or
By e-mail: ckrieten@hs-bremerhaven.de.
Counselling is available on the following topics, among others:
* Support services
* Organisation of studies
* Compensation for disadvantages during examinations
* External assistance
Live Community: All on board!
Under the motto: "All on board", we advocate for equal-opportunity access and participation in everyday university life. For this, we implement a range of measures for all students and university members.
Upcoming Events
The following services are available for this purpose:
The Bremen Disability Equality Act (BremBGG) defines disability as follows:
‘Persons with disabilities are defined as persons with long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments. In interaction with various barriers, these can prevent them from participating fully and equally in society.’
This definition not only includes people with an official disability card, but also people with chronic illnesses - both physical and mental - even if they do not identify as disabled.
The 22nd Social Survey of the German Student Union (May 2023) provides the following findings:
- 16% of all students state that they have an impairment that makes studying difficult.
- This can be a chronic mental or physical illness, disability or partial performance disorder.
Converted to Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences, this would be an estimated 440 students.
This figure makes it clear that you are by no means alone in your situation.
Disadvantage compensation is an important instrument for promoting equal opportunities in higher education. They enable students with disabilities or chronic illnesses to take examinations under fair conditions. These regulations are enshrined in the Bremen Higher Education Act (§ 31) and in the examination regulations (§ 11) of the Bachelor's and Master's degree programmes.
Who is entitled?
Students with:
* Physical, mental or psychological impairments.
* Chronic illnesses (physical and mental)
* Developmental or partial performance disorders.
Possible forms of compensation for disadvantages:
* Extension of the processing time
* Authorisation of additional aids
* Alternative forms of examination (e.g. oral instead of written)
* Individual examination dates
* Arrangements for breaks during the examination
* Deadline extensions for registrations and cancellations
Application:
1. arrange a counselling appointment (with the Counselling Centre for Inclusive Studying).
2. complete the application form for compensation for disadvantages
3. send the application to the representative for inclusive studying
4. enclose a medical certificate or other suitable evidence.
5. submit the application no later than six weeks after the start of the course.
You can find detailed information on the application procedure and the required forms on the university website under Inclusive Studying.
Study organisation
Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences offers various options for flexible study organisation to accommodate students with disabilities, chronic illnesses or neuro-diversity.
Part-time study
Students can apply for part-time study, in which a maximum of 3/5 of the credit points required for full-time study can be earned per semester. This makes it possible to adapt the pace of study to individual needs.
Semester of leave
Another option is to apply for a semester of leave, which is an official interruption of studies for one semester. During this time, you retain your student status, but with limited rights regarding courses and examinations.
Study assistance
Students with special needs, such as those on the autism spectrum, have the option of applying for study assistance via the integration assistance programme. This support can make everyday study life considerably easier.
These measures aim to improve the compatibility of studying and individual challenges and to offer all students a fair chance of successfully completing their studies.
Studying with health challenges can often be lonely and overwhelming.
But you are not alone! At Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences, we offer groups that create a safe space for exchange and mutual support.
Why peer-to-peer-groups?
* Shared experiences: Meet other students who are dealing with similar challenges.
* Mutual support: Share strategies and find encouragement.
*Confidential setting: Discuss openly in a protected environment.
What we offer
* ‘Mental Health’ group for students with mental illness, every Thursday at 18:30 in House B, Room 305
These groups not only offer emotional support, but also practical help with questions about compensating for disadvantages and coping with studies. Let's work together to find ways to make your studies successful. The Counselling Centre for Inclusive Studying is at your side - you don't have to go this way alone.
Contact the Mental Health group:
mentalhealth@hs-bremerhaven.de
Contact InkluZone:
inklusiv@hs-bremerhaven.de
Are you looking for opportunities to broaden your career prospects?
iXNet, the Federal Employment Agency's inclusive network of experts, offers you exactly that:
* Networking with other academics
Participation in workshops and events
* Improve your career opportunities
As part of the International Placement Services (ZAV), iXNet supports academics with disabilities and/or chronic illnesses and neuro-diversity in their professional participation and career development. The network offers:
* Information and counselling
* Peer support and mentoring
* Targeted networking opportunities
* Exchange platforms
Take the opportunity to benefit from this innovative, digital programme and actively shape your professional future.
https://ixnet-projekt.de/
These are advice centres that provide free advice to people with disabilities.
What topics does the EUTB advise on?
- Advice on cash and non-cash benefits
- Responsibilities of authorities and agencies
- Completing applications
- Severe disability card
- Assistance and aids
- Personal budget
- Barrier-free living
- Participation planning
- And much more
Counselling on questions about starting a degree programme and studying with disabilities. Counselling takes place both online and on campus.
Disabled persons' representative: Representative for disabled persons at Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences: Dirk Hagelstein
1. Substitute: Claudia Krieten
2. Substitute: Prof. Dr. Stefan Wittke
In the Barrier-free University workgroup, various members of the university work on implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and enabling barrier-free access and equal participation in studies, teaching, research and everyday work at the university.
This film about studying with autism was created in collaboration with students from the Digital Media Production programme and InkluZone.
Gender Equality
Hochschule Bremerhaven promotes gender equality in all areas of the university: in student life, teaching, research, and administration.
We aim for gender equality within the university’s structures as well as for a university culture which is sensitive to aspects of gender and actively combats discrimination in all its forms.
Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences is committed to protecting against discrimination. All members and affiliates of the university are encouraged to actively promote respectful, appreciative, and discrimination-sensitive interactions at Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences and to contribute to a culture of awareness and attentiveness.
Discrimination can take many forms.
According to the statutes of Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences on protection from and dealing with discrimination, discrimination occurs when a person experiences disadvantageous treatment because of:
- their sex or gender identity,
- their sexual identity,
- racist or antisemitic attributions,
- their religion or worldview,
- a disability,
- a chronic illness,
- their age,
- their language,
- their appearance,
- their social status,
- pregnancy or responsibility for children or relatives in need of care.
We focus on intersectional approaches in order to consider the various dimensions of diversity and their interactions, and to contribute to reducing disadvantages and protecting against discrimination.
In 2024, Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences successfully participated in the “Diversity Audit: Shaping Diversity” conducted by the German Stifterverband.
For all students at Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans*, or otherwise queer, we offer our group Queere Studierende (Queer Students).
We meet weekly for a regulars’ table, movie nights, discussion groups, group outings, and much more.
Contact: Lily (she/her) and Laura (all pronouns)
Instagram: @queere_studierende_bhv
Email: lgbtq@hs-bremerhaven.de
Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences signed the Diversity Charter in 2013 and participates annually in German Diversity Day.
StudiTalk is a peer-to-peer program provided by the Center for Equal Opportunity and Diversity. We offer groups in the following areas:
Have you noticed anything that makes living together at university more difficult for everyone? Together we want to break down barriers and strengthen mutual understanding.
Feel free to send your ideas, questions or concerns to:
inklusiv@hs-bremerhaven.de
"Little Campus" is a program for student parents to connect and share their experiences.
Here, you’ll find information to help you navigate the challenges of studying while raising a child.
For more information, feel free to send an email to:
littlecampus@hs-bremerhaven.de
Are you looking for a place to connect with others or simply meet new people?
Then feel free to drop by on Tuesdays at 6:30 PM in Building B, Room 305.
You’re also welcome to send us an email at:
mentalhealth@hs-bremerhaven.de
to get to know us or to talk personally about anything on your mind.
We’d like to offer you a support program by students for students – designed to help you with the different challenges of your studies and to meet your own goals and expectations in the foundational subjects like Math, Mechanics, and Electrical Engineering.
Whether you’re looking for help or want to share your knowledge – this is a space where students learn together and grow together.
When & Where?
Every Tuesday: 5:00–7:00 p.m.
Location: Cruise Lab House S 102
What to expect:
Collaborative group learning – because learning together makes it easier!
Support in Math, Physics, Engineering Mechanics & more – someone here knows the answers!
An open study space to network, exchange ideas, and support each other.
Feeling alone while studying?
Come by, bring your questions, or get inspired – there’s always a solution here!
Questions?
Feel free to write to us: svoll@studenten.hs-bremerhaven.de
Join us, take part, and become part of our learning community!
We’re looking forward to seeing you!
Your Peer Teaching Team
P.S.: Just drop in – no registration needed!
We offer an intercultural training programme for international students who are new to our university. Find out more here:
Health concerns us all!
Under this motto, we offer a wide range of services:
Headache Prevention
Information + additional materials
The university’s health management system is currently being expanded. Further information will be available shortly.
Active Break
An Active Break takes place every Wednesday from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM for students and staff. Birte Fortmann from the physiotherapy practice Gudehus keeps us active with a varied program of movement and stretching exercises. The program is supported by Techniker Krankenkasse.
Everyone is warmly invited to join!
Location: House S, Room 418
Exception: On March 11, 2026, the session will take place in S 315.
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Active Break – Online
In cooperation with the University of Bremen, we also offer online Active Break sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:45 AM to 12:00 PM.
Further information can be found in the flyer.
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International Soccer Group
The soccer group is led by Prof. Dr. Heimann.
Registration: On site by signing the participant list.
IMPORTANT!!!
To enter the Bundeswehr premises, participants must present a valid identification document (ID card or passport) to verify their identity.
Due to the current global situation and the associated security regulations for entering Bundeswehr premises, a list of security-sensitive states has been established.
This means that access to Bundeswehr premises for individuals from countries on this list may be restricted due to intelligence-related risks and legal security requirements.
- Specifically, individuals from these countries are subject to stricter access controls in order to:
- Prevent espionage activities by foreign intelligence services.
- Minimize risks of coercion due to family or professional ties.
- Protect critical Bundeswehr infrastructure from unauthorized access.
List of States (as of November 2024)
Part I: Afghanistan, China, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Syria, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Vietnam (Socialist Republic). For these countries, comprehensive access bans to military facilities apply.
Part II: Algeria, Lebanon, Pakistan, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iraq, Laos, Libya, Moldova, Sudan. Restrictions primarily apply to employees of intelligence services or comparable authorities.
Background of the Risk Assessment
The list is based on findings by the Federal Intelligence Service (BND) and the Military Counterintelligence Service (MAD) regarding:
- Intelligence activities by certain states targeting German institutions.
- Terrorism risks or organized crime in listed countries.
- Political instability or hostile attitudes toward Germany.
A restriction on access is not an individual form of discrimination, but rather a preventive security measureintended to protect personnel, information, and Bundeswehr infrastructure.
Please take this notice seriously!
We do not want anyone to miss participation simply because they forgot to bring their ID. We must comply with the formal regulations; in return, we are given the opportunity to use an excellent sports facility and, during the summer, even play outdoors on a great grass field.
Schedule
When: Every Monday starting January 5, 2026
Where: Marineoperationsschule - Elbestraße 101 27570 Bremerhaven
Meeting Time: 7:30 PM – 7:45 PM
Playing Time: 8:00 PM – 9:45 PM
What to Bring
Please bring appropriate sportswear. Watches, rings, necklaces, and jewelry pose a potential safety risk and must be removed before the session begins.
Changing rooms and showers in the sports hall are available.
Rules
- Arrive on time.
- Help with setup and cleanup.
- Show fair play toward fellow players.
- Ambition is welcome, but excessive physical play is not.
Misconduct will be recorded and may lead to exclusion from the group.
With these services, we offer support for personal challenges and help you navigate difficult or crisis-related times:
Psychological Counseling Service:
Support for academic difficulties and personal problems.
All students at Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences have the opportunity to visit the Psychological Counseling Service (PBS) of the Bremen Student Services on campus every Tuesday.
Further information is available here.
Mental Health Group
The student-led Mental Health Group meets regularly to share experiences, support one another, and engage in activities together.
With our offerings, we aim to support all university members in balancing their academic or work life with family and caregiving responsibilities.
Dear Parents,
At Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences, two lovingly furnished family rooms and quiet rooms are available for you. Here, you and your children can take a break, relax, or work and play in a calm environment.
People with disabilities are also welcome to use these spaces for a quiet moment of rest.
One room is located in Building Z, Room 3310 on the third floor, and the other in Building B, Room 303, also on the third floor. You can easily identify the rooms by the Little Campus logo (see attachment). Both rooms are accessible by elevator.
The rooms offer everything you need for a pleasant break: peace and quiet, toys for children, comfortable seating, and desks.
Access to the room in Building Z is provided via a key box located right next to the door. You will receive the code for the key box once you have booked a time slot for one of the family rooms.
You can book your time slot here:
https://elli.hs-bremerhaven.de/goto.php/crs/320248
Please make sure to write down the code immediately after receiving it, as it cannot be retrieved later and will be changed at the start of each semester.
After using the room, please return the key to the key box without fail!
We wish you and your children a relaxing and enjoyable time in our family rooms.
If you have any questions or need to get in touch, please contact us at:
littlecampus@hs-bremerhaven.de
A toy kit can be borrowed from the information desk to keep children entertained on campus. The kit includes toys, crafts, coloring materials, and books for children of various ages.
As part of the Family Service Network of Universities in Lower Saxony and Bremen, various online lectures and training sessions on caregiving and family-related topics will take place during the Winter Semester 2024/2025 for students and staff. The program will be announced shortly.
For questions about balancing pregnancy and parenthood during your studies, childcare in Bremerhaven, and caregiving responsibilities for relatives, we are happy to provide advice or, if necessary, refer you to other advisory services.
For questions regarding maternity leave and parental leave, please contact the Human Resources department.
Contact: personalstelle@hs-bremerhaven.de
For questions about childcare in Bremerhaven and caregiving for relatives, we are happy to provide advice.
Holiday care programs for children during the Easter, summer, and autumn vacations are offered in cooperation with the City of Bremerhaven and other public and research institutions in Bremerhaven. The programs and registration information will be sent to all staff via circular.
"Little Campus" is an initiative for student parents to connect and share experiences. Here, you will receive information that can help you navigate the challenges of studying while raising children.
For more information, send an email to:
studitalk@hs-bremerhaven.de
Or join the WhatsApp group:
https://chat.whatsapp.com/Kkn1KrLTgGF0MKxcPED0F5
In the Mensa of the Student Union Bremen, children of students up to the age of six can eat for free! The necessary eligibility card can be obtained by presenting the child’s birth certificate and the enrollment certificate of the student parent at the cafeteria or at the Service Point.
www.stw-bremen.de/de/mensa
The universities in the state of Bremen collaborate at the Round Table “Fair Care” to advance the compatibility of caregiving responsibilities with studying and academic work.