Karlshochschule International University

ABOUT UNIVERSITY

Karlshochschule International University is a state-approved, non-profit private foundation university located in Karlsruhe, Germany, recognized for its distinctive interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approach to higher education. The institution combines critical management studies with cultural studies, social sciences, and political sciences to provide students with a broad understanding of global challenges and contemporary society. Its origins date back to 1903, when the Merkur Akademie (M.A.I.) was established as an educational institution. The university expanded its academic offerings in 1992 by introducing its first bachelor's degree programs. In 2004, it became the Merkur Internationale Fachhochschule – University of Applied Sciences after receiving official state approval, with teaching commencing in 2005. On 27 May 2009, the institution adopted its current name, Karlshochschule International University, reflecting its growing international orientation and academic vision. Over the years, the university has experienced several leadership transitions. Eveline Lemke, the former Minister of Rhineland-Palatinate, became president in April 2017, though her appointment attracted public attention because she did not possess a university degree. She resigned later that year, after which Johann Schneider served as interim president beginning in November 2017. Michael Zerr assumed the presidency in 2018, followed by Robert Lepenies, who became president on 1 October 2022. Academically, Karlshochschule has maintained high quality standards through accreditation by the Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation (FIBAA). Initially accredited in 2009, the university later achieved system accreditation, enabling it to evaluate and accredit its own study programs through an established internal quality assurance process. Today, the university offers both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, including Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts programs in fields such as International Business, Digital Transformation and Ethics, and Social Transformation. With its emphasis on international perspectives, critical thinking, ethical responsibility, and interdisciplinary learning, Karlshochschule prepares students to address complex global issues while developing leadership, analytical, and cross-cultural skills for careers in business, public service, research, and civil society.