What UW/H does

At our university, you will become part of a diverse community of students and staff worldwide. With our global network of partner universities, internationally oriented degree programs in English such as Global Sustainability (B. A.), PPE Philosophy, Politics and Economics (M. A.), Social Data Science (B. Sc.) and Strategy & Organization (M. Sc.) as well as exchange programs and scholarships for students, we value diversity of perspectives from different nations and cultures. Our International Office will be happy to answer any questions about studying abroad.

Raising awareness of discrimination

Example of discrimination: At a team meeting, someone makes racist comments about a colleague because of their ethnic origin. These comments create a hostile working environment and affect teamwork.
"You speak such good German for someone of your origin."

• Migration history
  • A student is insulted and ostracised by fellow students because of his migration history. They make fun of his background and question his abilities and qualifications, even though he is academically successful.
  • "Where are you really from?" "Why are you even here? Return to your country if you can't cope with our rules."

What the UW/H does

We are committed to equality for all genders and constantly work to create and expand opportunities for everyone. As a student, you can get involved in various initiatives at Witten University and, for example, campaign for gender-equitable medicine, advocate for more visibility for women as well as trans* and inter* people, or exchange ideas with other people on your topics and questions via numerous regulars' tables and networking opportunities. With our equality plan, we have committed to increasing the representation of women in management positions. Our in-house collective agreement ensures equal pay for equal performance. The daycare centre at UW/H, with flexible working and study models and a separate parent-child room, supports you in combining family and career or studies. Tuition fees are only charged for the standard study period - additional semesters do not have to be paid. Therefore, it is not an issue if your studies are extended due to caring for children or relatives. The Reverse Generation Contract means that tuition fees can only be paid after you have completed your studies.

Raising awareness of discrimination

Example of discrimination: In an office, male employees repeatedly make derogatory comments about female colleagues, for example, by making lewd jokes or inappropriate comments about their appearance. These actions create an unpleasant working environment for the women concerned.

"Women won't get anywhere in medical professions anyway. You won't understand what it's all about anyway." "You're probably too emotional for this position."

⇒inclusive gender identity

A colleague is consistently misgendered, or the chosen pronoun is not respected.

• "You can't just make up pronouns; this isn't Pipi Longstocking.
   

What the UW/H does

Our university offers a safe and appreciative space for queer people. Students, staff, lecturers and all interested parties meet once a month at the queer regulars' table to chat, get to know each other and network. As a student, you can get involved in various LGBTQIA+ initiatives and campaign for sexual education in schools, for example

Raising awareness of discrimination

Example of discrimination: A homosexual employee is shunned by their colleagues and excluded from social activities because they are open about their sexual orientation. This behavior creates isolation and makes it difficult to work productively in a team.

"I have nothing against gays, but do you have to be so obvious about it?" "Oh, it's great that you're in a relationship now, but tell me, who's the man and who's the woman?"

What the UW/H does

At the Witten campus, we believe that education has no age limits. Our unique learning environment is a place for lifelong learning, where experiences and perspectives from all generations are not just welcomed, but valued. We eagerly anticipate hearing your thoughts and ideas for our community. In our Studium fundamental seminars, you'll have the chance to engage with fellow students from different semesters and stages of life, learning with and from each other.

Raising awareness of discrimination

An example of discrimination is when an older employee is ridiculed by younger colleagues and dismissed as "no longer up to date." They are not included in important decisions and projects, even though they have much experience and could make valuable contributions.

"You probably don't understand this new technology, nor do the younger employees."

What the UW/H does

At UW/H, we strive to make everyone feel comfortable and accepted, regardless of their first language or spoken language. With degree programs and courses taught in English, we create an accessible environment for a diverse global community. The International Office further enhances this global experience, providing additional support for all questions relating to stays abroad and, above all, for students who come to UW/H from all over the world for a certain period.

Raising awareness of discrimination

Example of discrimination: An employee is discriminated against because of his accent or language skills. Colleagues make derogatory remarks about his pronunciation and accuse him of being unable to understand complex tasks, even though he has the necessary skills.

"Your accent is charming but sometimes difficult to understand."

This is what the UW/H does.

Your religion and worldview deserve respect. At UW/H, we promote an open exchange between different faiths to create a climate of understanding, tolerance and diversity.

The "Konfessionelle Hochschulgemeinschaften Witten" regularly offers educational events on religious and political topics and organises joint excursions and spiritual events for students of all denominations. You can withdraw for prayer or mediation in the Room of Silence at the UW/H.

Raising awareness of discrimination

Example of discrimination: An employee is harassed because of his religious beliefs. Colleagues make disrespectful remarks about his spiritual practices and try to pressure him to change his beliefs to be "accepted".

"I find it fascinating how strongly you hold on to your faith despite the scientific facts."

What UW/H does

We are committed to educational justice, equality and equal opportunities and support you in realising your dreams and goals regardless of your background. With the Reverse Generation Contract, UW/H students have developed a flexible fee model that makes education accessible to all, irrespective of parental income.

Our individual and personal support, along with small seminar groups, are designed to provide all students with the best possible assistance. Additionally, our scholarship programs offer you the chance to focus on your studies without any financial worries. If you're passionate about promoting educational equality, consider becoming a mentor with the 'Rock your Life' initiative. This role allows you to support students as a coach in various aspects of their lives, contributing to a more equitable educational environment.

Raising awareness of discrimination

Example of discrimination: A student from a financially disadvantaged family is mocked by his fellow students because of his modest lifestyle. They make derogatory remarks about his clothes and lifestyle, which leads to a feeling of shame and exclusion.

"Poverty is often just a lack of determination, you know."
 

What UW/H does

We want our university to be fully accessible for you, so we pay attention to inclusion: our campus buildings are virtually barrier-free, and we always find individual solutions so that you can study and work with as few obstacles as possible. For students with disabilities, chronic illnesses or neurodivergence, there is a regular exchange room to empower each other and discuss experiences or tips for studying among peers. You can also campaign for accessibility and against ableism in the "UW/H for all" initiative.

Right next to the university is the Center for Mental Health and Psychotherapy at Witten/Herdecke University. Here, you can get professional support in challenging life situations, psychological and social stress, mental disorders, and physical illnesses associated with psychosocial complaints. The psychological student counselling service is also a first point of contact.

Raising awareness of discrimination

Example of discrimination: An employee with a visible disability is shunned by their colleagues and excluded from social activities. They make inappropriate comments about his physical appearance and question his abilities because of his disability.

"You do so well despite your disability; that's admirable."

What the UW/H does

We aim to ensure that students and employees with children or relatives to care for have the same opportunities as those without family obligations. We have set up a parent-child room in the new building where, for example, you can breastfeed or work while your child plays in the play corner. The room does not have to be booked; the key can be collected from the information desk in the main building at any time. For employees, arrangements such as flexitime or mobile working take the pressure off.

Raising awareness of discrimination

Example of discrimination: A single mother is looked askance at by her colleagues when she needs more flexible working hours due to family commitments. She is seen as unreliable even though she does an excellent job, which leads to professional disadvantages.

"I don't know how you manage family and work. I couldn't do it." "How can you put your career before your children?"