Understanding human nature and behavioural patterns has remained a focus in the 21st century due to the rapid global advancements in several sectors such as education, technology, business, and healthcare. The focus on mental health and the emotional well-being of humans has increased the demand for trained psychologists across different industries.
The growing interest in psychology studies has turned the focus on the public and private universities in Germany which offer various psychology programmes with a focus on the scientific, empirical, and experimental aspects of the subject. What better place to study psychology than the home country of Wilhelm Wundt, the father of modern psychology?
Studying psychology in Berlin is an exciting prospect for students with the number of study exchanges and career opportunities that awaits them. Berlin, being an educational and business hub of Europe also offers chances to study psychology in English thereby attracting a horde of international students. So, what are the prospects of studying psychology in Berlin?
A brief history of psychology in Germany
Psychology in Germany has deep roots. Back in the late 19th century, Wilhelm Wundt, a German physiologist, helped turn psychology from a branch of philosophy into a science in its own right. Often called the father of experimental psychology, Wundt set up the world’s first psychology lab in Leipzig and began studying the human mind using scientific methods.
Before that, psychology was mainly explored by philosophers like Immanuel Kant and Sigmund Freud, who focused on the theory behind human thought and behaviour. Wundt’s approach changed everything — he brought structure, measurement and experimentation to the field. That shift laid the foundation for how we understand psychology today: as a scientific study of the mind and behaviour.
Top reasons to study psychology in Berlin
Choosing to study psychology in Berlin means joining one of Europe’s most forward-thinking learning environments. The city combines academic tradition with a thriving modern culture, making it an ideal place to explore how human behaviour connects with today’s social and technological changes.
Here are a few reasons Berlin stands out:
- Strong academic heritage – Germany is recognised as the birthplace of modern psychology, and its universities continue to lead with research-based, practical teaching methods.
- Global learning environment – Berlin attracts students from all over the world. Studying psychology here means learning in a truly international setting that broadens your perspective on human behaviour and culture.
- English-taught programmes – Many institutions, including the University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE), offer the option to study psychology in Germany in English, making it accessible to international students.
- Career-ready experience – Courses often include internships and research opportunities in diverse areas of psychology, helping students gain valuable hands-on skills.
- A city full of opportunity – Berlin is a hub for innovation, start-ups and healthcare organisations. That means more chances to apply your psychological knowledge in real-world contexts.
Berlin as a psychology study destination
Berlin is one of Europe’s most exciting places to study. Every year, thousands of international students come here for its top-ranked universities, open-minded atmosphere and strong focus on innovation and research.
Psychology has become especially popular in recent years, as interest in mental health and wellbeing continues to grow. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, 23 German universities are among the world’s best for psychology, and several of them are based in Berlin. That reputation reflects the quality of teaching, research and international outlook you’ll find here.
Studying psychology in Berlin gives you plenty of options to explore different paths, from business psychology, which combines human behaviour with organisational strategy, to areas like cognitive or forensic psychology. Many universities also offer English-taught programmes, making it easier for international students to study and connect in a global setting.
Students in Berlin can also gain hands-on experience through internships, exchange programmes and research projects. These opportunities not only build practical skills but also help you develop a truly international perspective, something that’s increasingly valuable for a career in psychology or any related field.
What are the career opportunities after a psychology degree?
As mentioned, Berlin is home to multinational companies and start-ups. With a growing focus on mental health globally, many companies are hiring psychologists to work part-time or full-time to look after their employees’ needs.
Although many mental health issues need expert psychological guidance, Glassdoor reports indicate that MNCs like Google are hiring user-experience research interns with qualifications in cognitive psychology.
Here are some other popular career choices in the field of psychology:
- Business psychologist
A business psychologist applies psychological expertise to a workplace to study the behavioural patterns of employees. As a business psychologist, you must identify areas of improvement for employees and motivate them to improve. Increasing their productivity and improving the organisation’s performance is a chief responsibility of business psychologists.
- Sports psychologist
As a sports psychologist, you must work with athletes and help improve their performance through constant motivation and management of on-field behavioural issues like anger and stress. You must also join them in the rehabilitation process motivating them to recover speedily.
- Clinical psychologist
A clinical psychologist treats various mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, addictive behaviour, ADHD, and other emotional issues. You must suggest treatments that include medication, therapy, etc. and keep a constant check on your patients on their road to recovery.
Advantages of studying psychology in Berlin
Berlin offers the perfect balance of academic excellence and personal growth. As a Berlin university psychology student, you’ll find that studying here goes far beyond classroom learning.
- World-class teaching: Universities in Berlin are known for integrating theory and practice. You’ll explore everything from clinical to business psychology using up-to-date, evidence-based approaches.
- Access to leading research: Germany invests heavily in research and innovation, and psychology is no exception. Students often have access to advanced labs, case studies and professional networks.
- Affordable, high-quality education: Compared to many other countries, studying psychology in Germany offers excellent value, with lower tuition fees and a high standard of living.
- Career pathways: Berlin’s economy is driven by sectors like technology, health and education, all of which increasingly rely on psychological expertise.
Whether you’re interested in business psychology, counselling or research, studying psychology in Berlin provides a launchpad for a meaningful and future-focused career.
Requirements to study psychology in Berlin
If you’re ready to study psychology in Berlin, the University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE) makes the application process clear and straightforward. Below are the key requirements for both undergraduate and postgraduate applicants.
Bachelor’s programmes (BSc Psychology / BSc Business Psychology)
To apply for a bachelor’s degree at UE, you’ll need:
- Completed application form
- High school diploma and transcript, or an equivalent occupational qualification, officially translated into English or German
- Proof of English language proficiency – one of the following minimum scores:
- IELTS 5.5 overall
- TOEFL iBT 60 / TOEFL ITP 498
- Pearson Test of English (Academic) 56 / General Level 1
- Cambridge English Advanced or Proficiency 162 overall
- Cambridge First (FCE) 160 / B2 CEFR
- TOEIC Listening 400, Reading 385, Speaking 160, Writing 150
- PASSWORD 5.5 overall (no less than 5.0 in each component)
- Duolingo 100
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – dated and signed
- Copy of passport (scanned)
- Motivation letter (minimum 500 words)
- Admission test – completed online; no prior preparation required
Master’s programmes (MSc Clinical Psychology / MSc Psychology: Coaching and Counselling)
To apply for a master’s degree at UE, you’ll need:
- Completed application form
- Undergraduate degree (Bachelor’s, MBA, or Master’s), officially translated into English or German
- Proof of English language proficiency – one of the following minimum scores:
- IELTS 6.0 overall / B2 Level
- TOEFL iBT 72 / TOEFL ITP 543
- Pearson Test of English (Academic) 59 / General Level 1
- Cambridge English Advanced or Proficiency 169 overall
- Cambridge First (FCE) 160 / B2 CEFR
- TOEIC Listening 400, Reading 385, Speaking 160, Writing 150
- PASSWORD 6.0 overall
- Duolingo 105
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – dated and signed
- Copy of passport (scanned)
- Motivation letter (minimum 500 words)
UE welcomes students from around the world who want to study psychology in Germany in English. With flexible entry routes and full English-language support, Berlin is one of the best places to start your journey towards an international career in psychology.
Conclusion
The scope of psychology is huge and Berlin is one of the best places to study psychology in English for many reasons, including its international educational standards. Check out the various undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in psychology offered at the University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE), Germany. UE offers bachelor’s programmes in psychology and business psychology and master’s programmes in clinical psychology and psychology: coaching and counselling.
The programmes deal with a cross-sectional study of various disciplines in psychology and offer you the choice to specialise in several interdisciplinary subjects. The concepts are constantly reviewed to adapt to the changes in the labour market and prepare you for successful careers in diverse industries.