Originally founded in Berlin in 1920 as a national College of Physical Education, it was re-located to Cologne in 1947 as a municipal institution and taken over in 1962 by the Federal State of North Rhine-Westphalia. In 1970 it was formally recognized as a State University and since than has been invested with all the academic privileges of a public institution of higher education.

As a specific subject area university with 19 scientific institutes (departments) it covers a wide range of sport science teaching and research. More than 30 sports are taught in theory and practice in modern facilities. Currently approximately 5,200 students, including 500 foreign students, are preparing for professional careers in sport, physical education sport science, and other related fields. The university offers academic Bachelor and Master degrees, teacher certificates for various school levels, and a doctoral degree.

The German Sport University Cologne consistently follows its path as a research university. Its interdisciplinary work goes beyond institute and university borders, and it encourages young academics, particularly through the establishment of postgraduate programmes. This process also benefits students who are trained on the basis of current research results. Research-led teaching is the byword here. Its academics motivate the German Sport University Cologne, setting objectives and participating in current tenders and programmes with high-calibre funding institutions. The research service centre offers information, advice and support for submitting applications and developing projects.

If you are looking to expand your knowledge of a specific area, they are able to offer you tailor-made further education courses (also in English). They work together with individuals and companies to develop further education courses designed especially for you. Just contact them! They would be delighted to see you at one of their courses at the German Sport University!The Career Service provides advice on career opportunities for students and graduates. It also assists graduates in finding jobs through web-based job boards, career fairs, on-campus recruitment as well as offering coaching, a diagnosis of potential, career workshops and support with writing job applications