28 May 2025

Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences has consistently sharpened its profile in the field of academic continuing education in recent years. With the founding of the Institute for Academic Continuing Education (IAW) in 2022, it is sending a strong signal in favour of lifelong learning and practical qualifications at university level.

Prof Dr Andreas Bergknapp, Head of the Institute for Academic Continuing Education (IAW) at Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences, focuses on practical, flexible educational formats for working people.

(Photo: Tina Bergknapp)

A location for future-orientated education

What began with two continuing education Master's programmes has developed into a broad-based institute with a wide range of educational opportunities. The IAW sees itself as a response to the growing demands of a dynamic working world in which continuous professional development is essential for specialists and managers. Professionals, career changers and experienced practitioners will find suitable formats here to develop their skills in a targeted manner and strengthen their career opportunities.

Three programme areas - one goal: practical academic training

The IAW bundles its services in three central areas:

• Certificate courses:

Compact further training courses on specific topics such as developmental psychology, trauma pedagogy or scientific work.

• Certificate programmes:

Part-time programmes with a recognised university certificate - for example "Leadership - effective leadership" or "Social business administration" - for (future) managers, particularly in the social sector.

• Master's degree programmes:

Study programmes such as "Early Help and Inclusion (M.A.)" or "Systemic Counselling (M.A.)", which combine academic depth with high practical relevance.

Customised solutions for companies and institutions

In addition to the open formats, the IAW also develops individual further education courses for organisations, companies and public institutions. Customised concepts are developed in close cooperation with the respective partners and are carried out by experienced university lecturers and external experts. This offer provides real added value for the regional economy.

"Our society is facing profound changes - technologically, socially and economically. With the IAW, we are creating programmes that support people in facing these challenges competently and confidently. Our aim is to make scientifically sound and practice-oriented further education accessible - flexible, relevant and at the highest level," emphasises the Director of the IAW, Prof. Dr Andreas Bergknapp.

A place for education with a future

With the IAW, Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences makes it clear that academic continuing education must be flexible, high-quality and customised. Online teaching, face-to-face courses and hybrid formats make it possible to customise educational paths - always with a strong connection to practice. The IAW team is continuously working on the further development of the programme and cordially invites interested parties to seek personal advice.

Further information and personal advice:

🌐 www.hs-nordhausen.de/weiterbildung

✉️

📞 +49 3631 420-222