Leuphana Hosts "Liberal Arts and Sciences" Networking Event
2026-03-30 On April 7 and 8, 2026, representatives from German universities that focus on interdisciplinary study models will gather in Lüneburg. This approach to higher education is becoming increasingly important in light of social and economic changes.
Leuphana launched the college model as early as 2007, followed by the Studium Individuale in 2012. “This means that Leuphana College has the longest experience with Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) in the German-speaking world,” explains Dr. Steffi Hobuß. Especially in the past two years, additional LAS programs have emerged at German universities, such as in Giessen, Hamburg, and Nuremberg.
The network meeting builds on an initial exchange that took place in Freiburg about a year and a half ago. The goal is to intensify cooperation among the programs, strengthen joint public relations efforts, and exchange experiences—for example, regarding the further development of teaching formats, networking among students, or the establishment of a joint alumni network.
Liberal Arts and Sciences programs are a wise choice, especially in times of economic uncertainty. “Interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking, judgment, and independence are key competencies in a rapidly changing work environment and are therefore increasingly sought after by HR managers,” explains Steffi Hobuß, pointing to many successful graduates who are now active in politics, business, or academia.
The network meeting was jointly initiated by Leuphana University Lüneburg and University College Freiburg. It is funded, among other sources, by state funds as part of “Pro Niedersachsen,” and an application for long-term funding from the Foundation for Innovation in Higher Education has been submitted. The network meeting is open to the public.
On April 17, 2026, German Liberal Arts & Sciences programs will also invite prospective students to a joint Open Day for the first time. In addition to Leuphana College, the programs at the University of Freiburg, the University of Hamburg, Justus Liebig University Giessen, KIT Karlsruhe, and the Technical University of Nuremberg will be participating. The information day will be held online.