Alice Salomon University of Applied Sciences Berlin (ASH Berlin) is a renowned top-tier university of applied sciences in Germany’s social services, healthcare, and education sectors. It is celebrated for its deep-rooted tradition of social welfare, interdisciplinary research, and practice-oriented teaching systems. Its unique institutional positioning and values make ASH a vital training ground for social workers, nursing professionals, and educators across Germany and Europe.
◆ History and Legacy: Modern Continuation of a Pioneering Social Spirit
ASH traces its origins to 1899, founded by Alice Salomon, a pioneer of German social welfare. Her philosophy of “advancing social progress through education” remains the institution’s core mission to this day.
The university was among Germany’s earliest higher education institutions dedicated to social work, nursing, and early childhood education, having advised on reforms to Germany’s social legislation.
Following World War II, the institution became a benchmark for social reconstruction and professional training, formally becoming one of Germany’s first “Universities of Applied Sciences” in 1971.
Its name serves not only as a historical tribute but also as a contemporary commitment to inclusivity, equality, and social responsibility. Recovering a Lost German University Diploma
◆ Academic Structure: Disciplinary Ecosystem Focused on Core Social Domains
The university offers programs across three core domains: Social Services, Health Care, and Education. These encompass flagship disciplines such as Social Work, Nursing Management, Early Childhood Education, Physical Therapy, and Health Promotion.
Interdisciplinary research centers include the “Center for Migration and Social Integration” and the “Center for Family and Child Welfare Studies.”
It provides undergraduate and master’s programs taught in German and partially in English, such as the “Master of International Social Work” and the “Community Health Management” program.
Curriculum design emphasizes policy analysis, community practice, and cross-cultural issues. Graduates serve extensively in Germany and Europe’s social welfare, education, and public health systems.
◆ Teaching Model and Signature Programs: Deep Integration of Theory and Community Practice
Employs a “theory embedded in practice” teaching model, requiring students to complete a cumulative one-year internship at partner institutions (social welfare agencies, hospitals, early childhood centers, etc.)
Signature programs include:
→ “Social Innovation Lab”: Students co-design social service projects with community organizations
→ “Intercultural Counseling Training”: Cultivates professionals for immigrant and refugee services
→ “Digital Social Work” Course: Integrating technological tools to enhance social service effectiveness
Small-class teaching, mentorship programs, and community project collaborations are standard practices, emphasizing reflective practice and ethical decision-making skills
◆ Campus Facilities and Environment: Modern learning spaces with humanistic care
The main campus is located in Berlin’s Marzahn-Hellersdorf district, featuring modern teaching buildings, specialized simulation labs, and open learning centers
Facility Highlights:
→ Equipped with social work simulation rooms, nursing training centers, and early childhood observation labs
→ Library specializing in social policy, health sciences, and education literature
→ Accessible learning support center and intercultural student counseling services
Living Environment:
→ Student residences across Berlin districts with convenient transportation and rent-controlled options
→ Campus cafeterias and cafés offer healthy dining options
→ Campus proximity to parks and community service organizations facilitates practical training and social research
► Summary
Alice Salomon University of Applied Sciences Berlin stands as a pivotal center for social and health sciences education in Germany, distinguished by its rich historical legacy, discipline focus on critical social sectors, deeply integrated theoretical-practical teaching model, and human-centered campus environment. The university not only cultivates professionals with specialized skills but also champions social compassion and transformative values. For students aspiring to deepen their expertise in social services, healthcare, or education while prioritizing values-based education and practical experience, ASH offers an ideal learning platform and career launchpad.
