About us

The German Sport University Cologne, founded in 1947, is renowned for its excellent teaching, international research and top-class sport at the highest level. It is Germany’s only university dedicated exclusively to the field of sport and physical activity.

Studierende sitzen im Konferenzraum und unterhalten sich lächelnd
Studierende sitzen im Konferenzraum und unterhalten sich lächelnd

Exploring movement, shaping the future, taking responsibility

The German Sport University Cologne is Germany’s only university specialising in sport and a leading international centre for sport science. Here, we combine research, teaching and practice in a unique setting – in the heart of Cologne’s green belt and closely linked to sport, society and partners in the field worldwide. Through interdisciplinary thinking and a strong practical focus, we develop solutions to the key issues in sport: from performance and health, through education and prevention, to digitalisation and innovation. In doing so, we always view sport as a social responsibility. We embrace diversity and internationalism, promote exchange and collaboration, and create space for new ideas – in our degree programmes, in research and in practical application. In this way, we play an active role in shaping the sport of tomorrow.

By combining excellence in research, teaching and practice, we take responsibility for the further development of physical activity, health and performance in society. Our aim is to consistently bring together scientific knowledge and social impact.

Professor Ansgar Thiel, Vice-Chancellor

Ansicht nach oben auf hohe Bäume

Shaping the future

As a university institution dedicated to research and teaching, we bear a special responsibility for the forward-looking and sustainable development of society. As an educational institution for future decision-makers and as a centre for sports science research, we see it as our duty to impart knowledge, skills and values, and to provide impetus for innovations that are essential for a sustainable society.

Im Kreis stehende Studierende legen die Hände in der Mitte übereinander

All different. All equally important.

At the German Sport University Cologne, we view gender and diversity management as an approach that values and respects diversity. We are committed to equal opportunities and the active participation of all members of the university community – regardless of gender, nationality, age, disability, social background, family circumstances or sexual orientation. Through projects, events and the integration of diversity into teaching, we promote a respectful university culture.

Vier Studierende gehen Arm in Arm über dem Campus der Deutschen Sporthochschule

Global, interconnected, open

The German Sport University Cologne is a cosmopolitan university with a strong international network. We promote the international mobility of students and teaching staff, develop joint degree and PhD programmes with partner universities worldwide, and strengthen integration initiatives for people from different cultural backgrounds. At the same time, we focus on international collaboration and networked research consortia in our key research areas – and provide our students with targeted preparation for the global labour market.