Hochschule für Künste im Sozialen
Fachhochschule Ottersberg
If you're a Turkish student thinking about studying at the intersection of art and social sciences in Germany, Hochschule für Künste im Sozialen, Ottersberg (HKS) offers a unique option. Located in the charming town of Ottersberg in Lower Saxony, this private, state-recognized university has been offering programs that blend creativity and social responsibility since 1967. At AlmanyaUni, we know Turkish students are really interested in university introductions in Germany (just look at the forum topic "Üniversite Tanitimlari Güncelleniyor").
That's why we're taking a detailed look at the opportunities HKS Ottersberg offers. Especially if you're aiming for a career in art, design, or social fields, HKS provides an intimate learning environment. With just 274 students, it promises a personalized educational experience. For candidates considering higher education in Germany and looking for a different academic path, HKS offers an innovative approach beyond traditional university structures.
Quick Facts
- University Name
- Hochschule für Künste im Sozialen, Ottersberg
- City
- Ottersberg
- State
- Lower Saxony (Niedersachsen)
- University Type
- University of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule / HAW)
- Status
- Private, State-Recognized
- Founding Year
- 1967
- Number of Students
- 274
- Official Website
- https://www.hks-ottersberg.de
- HRK Membership
- Hayır
- Uni-Assist Membership
- Hayır
Hochschule für Künste im Sozialen: Art and Social Impact
As its name suggests, Hochschule für Künste im Sozialen has a unique educational philosophy that combines artistic expression with social responsibility. This private university in Ottersberg not only helps you develop your artistic talents but also teaches you how to use these skills in social contexts. Being a 'Fachhochschule' or 'HAW' (University of Applied Sciences) in Germany means the education is more practical and application-oriented.
Its state-recognized status guarantees that the degrees you earn are valid throughout Germany and internationally. With around 274 students, HKS offers a more intimate, personal, and supportive learning environment compared to larger universities. You can build closer relationships with instructors and get one-on-one support for your projects.
This can make the adaptation process easier, especially for Turkish students coming from abroad. The university offers pioneering programs in areas like art therapy and social arts, opening up broad career opportunities for its graduates in both artistic and social sectors.
Student Life and Surroundings in Ottersberg
Ottersberg is a small, peaceful town located in the state of Lower Saxony. It's ideal if you're looking for a calm study environment away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. HKS's location offers you a life close to nature while also giving you the chance to be part of a creative and artistic community.
Even though Ottersberg itself is small, its proximity to Bremen, one of Germany's important cities, means you can easily access broader cultural, social, and job opportunities. This is great if you're considering different cities for things like 'Dil kursu onerisi' (language course recommendations), as it lets you experience both the tranquility of Ottersberg and the vibrancy of Bremen. The small student community at HKS fosters a strong sense of solidarity and belonging.
You can easily connect with fellow students and locals through on-campus events and local art projects. This is a big advantage, especially for Turkish students trying to adapt to a new country.
Application and Admission Processes for Turkish Students
If you're a Turkish student considering applying to Hochschule für Künste im Sozialen, you need to carefully check the current application requirements on the university's official website. Since HKS is not a member of Uni-Assist (a central application service for international students), applications are made directly to the university. During this process, certified translations of your documents into German are crucial; it might be helpful to use services like 'Deutschstudent Üyelerine Indirimli Tercüme' (Discounted Translation for Deutschstudent Members).
While questions like 'being over 25 for undergraduate study in Germany' are common, private universities like HKS often focus more on an applicant's talent and motivation rather than an age limit. However, each program can have its own specific admission requirements, so it's important to get detailed information, especially regarding language proficiency (usually B2 level German) and artistic requirements like a portfolio. Contacting a student advisor, whether a 'Frau' (Ms.) or 'Herr' (Mr.), during the application process can help ensure a smoother experience.
Monthly Cost of Living (Estimated)
Places to Visit and Student Hangouts
The heart of student life, workshops, and classrooms.
Details ↗Local galleries reflecting the town's artistic atmosphere.
Green spaces ideal for nature walks and relaxation.
Nearby famous artist village with galleries and cafes.
Big city amenities for shopping, cultural events, and social life.
Student Life and Culture
Student life at Hochschule für Künste im Sozialen reflects the university's artistic and social focus. Thanks to the small student body, a strong sense of community and a culture of collaboration have developed among students. Classes typically involve workshops, project-based learning, and interactive discussions.
This ensures you not only gain theoretical knowledge but also develop practical skills. Art events, exhibitions, and social projects held on campus and around Ottersberg offer you opportunities to express yourself and contribute to the community. Its proximity to Bremen also gives you access to the cultural events and social venues that larger cities offer. This way, you can experience both the peace of quiet town life and the dynamism of a big city.
- Hands-on education with intensive workshops and project work
- Student projects combining art and social responsibility
- Strong connections within a small and intimate student community
- Opportunities to participate in regional art events and cultural projects
- Encouragement for interdisciplinary collaboration and creative expression
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from a humanities/social sciences background in Turkey to a STEM program in Germany? ▼
Even if you've studied in a different field in Turkey, it's possible to switch to a STEM program in Germany. However, you'll usually need to attend a 'Studienkolleg' (preparatory college) or ensure your Turkish diploma meets Germany's equivalency requirements. Each university and program has different admission criteria, so you should check the specific conditions for HKS or any other universities you're interested in.
I've been accepted for a Master's, and I have a green passport. Can I handle my visa procedures from within Germany? ▼
No, applications for a student visa in Germany generally must be made from your country of residence (Turkey). Even if you have a green passport, you need to apply for your visa at the relevant German Consulate or Embassy in Turkey before traveling to Germany. It's usually not possible to enter Germany as a tourist and then change your visa type there.
My Master's program is 2 years long; do I need to have 24 months' worth of money in my blocked account? ▼
For a student visa in Germany, you generally need to have enough funds in your blocked account (Sperrkonto) to cover your living expenses for the first year (12 months), which is currently around 11,208 Euros. For subsequent years, you'll be expected to show sufficient financial resources again when applying for a visa extension. It's not mandatory to have 24 months' worth of money in your blocked account all at once, but it is important to prove sufficiency for each year.
As a Master's student in Germany, do I have a 20-hour work permit, and can I work for places like Lieferando? ▼
Yes, international students in Germany (including Master's students) are allowed to work 120 full days or 240 half days per year. This generally equates to 20 hours per week. You can work for platforms like Lieferando or other student jobs, but you must be careful not to exceed these work permit limits. You should check the details of your work permit on your visa and residence permit.
What should I do to study for a Master's in Germany if I don't know German? ▼
If you want to pursue a Master's in Germany without knowing German, you'll need to apply for English-taught programs. For English-taught programs, you'll be asked to provide an internationally recognized English proficiency certificate like IELTS or TOEFL. The process generally involves these steps: choosing a program, checking university admission requirements, preparing necessary documents (transcripts, diploma, language certificate, etc.), submitting your application, receiving acceptance, and completing your visa application.
Can I bring my family to Germany with a language course visa or a Master's student visa? ▼
A student visa or language course visa generally only allows the visa holder to stay in Germany. To bring your family members (spouse and children) to Germany, they will need to apply for a 'family reunification visa.' This type of visa has its own specific requirements (such as sufficient financial resources, adequate housing, and German language proficiency), and the conditions can vary depending on the visa holder's status in Germany (student, employee, etc.).
Don't forget to visit the official website to get more information about Hochschule für Künste im Sozialen and to find up-to-date details on the application processes. Take the first step to realize your dreams of studying art and social fields in Germany!
Programs
Useful Links
Sources
Programs & Departments
1 active programs · 0 English · 0 NC-frei
Other (1)
Ottersberg
State: Lower Saxony
More about Ottersberg
Cost of living, housing, transport, student life and all universities.
Student Experiences
Share yours too →No experience shared yet.
Be the first to share an experience about Hochschule für Künste im Sozialen and help other students.
Share your experienceOther universities in Ottersberg
All →
Student Reviews
Verified reviews from current students, alumni and applicants.
No reviews yet. Be the first!
Verified students and alumni can share their experience below.
Write a review about Hochschule für Künste im Sozialen (Fachhochschule Ottersberg) Open form ↓
How do I apply to Hochschule für Künste im Sozialen (Fachhochschule Ottersberg) as an international student?
Non-EU applicants apply via uni-assist (document verification + APS certificate for some countries). EU applicants apply directly. You need a recognised degree, language certificate, motivation letter and CV. After admission, open a Sperrkonto and book a visa appointment at your local German embassy.
- Pick a programme — Browse the programme list above — filter by language, degree, field.
- Verify your eligibility — Check Anabin/APS for your country and degree-equivalence rules.
- Get language certificate — TestDaF/DSH for German, IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught programmes.
- Apply via uni-assist or directly — Submit by 15 July (winter) / 15 January (summer) deadlines.
- After admission: Sperrkonto + visa — Open the blocked account, get health insurance, attend embassy interview.