FHM University of Applied Sciences
FHM University of Applied Sciences is a private German university founded in 2000, operating 9 physical campuses plus a digital Online-University and offering NC-free Bachelor, Master, Doctoral, and continuing education programs across business, social sciences, health, technology, and media to high school graduates, working professionals, and dual study students in Germany.
- Company typePrivate
- Founded2000
- HeadquartersBielefeld, Germany
- Headcount11–50
- GTM typeB2C
- OfferingServices
What FHM University of Applied Sciences does
FHM (Fachhochschule des Mittelstands) University of Applied Sciences is a private, state-approved German university founded in 2000 and headquartered in Bielefeld. The institution operates 9 physical campuses across Germany (Bielefeld, Berlin, Bamberg, Hannover, Köln, Frechen, Düren, Rostock, Waldshut) plus a fully digital FHM Online-University, delivering Bachelor, Master, Doctoral (DBA), and continuing education programs across six subject areas: Business, Education & Social Sciences, Psychology, Health & Sports, Technology, and Media & Communication. A core differentiator is NC-free (no numerus clausus) admission combined with multiple flexible study formats — full-time, part-time (berufsbegleitend), distance learning (Fernstudium), dual/trial study, and Kombi-Studium — supported by a three-tier student advisory system and the Studifinder diagnostic tool for prospective students.
The business model is a monthly recurring subscription with tuition fees ranging from €281.25 to €765 per student per month depending on program and format, generating predictable cash flow over multi-year program durations. The technology stack centers on the TraiNex campus management system, the 24/7 LAICA AI chatbot for distance learning support, the mandatory 'KI in Theorie & Praxis' AI module integrated into all programs, ZFU-certified distance learning materials, and the virtual live lecture platform (Virtueller Hörsaal). Regulatory positioning is exceptionally strong: Wissenschaftsrat institutional accreditation (since 2007, re-accredited October 2017), FIBAA system accreditation (since July 2019 enabling self-accreditation), ZFU distance learning certification, and Certqua continuing education certification.
FHM serves a distributed customer base of high school graduates, working professionals seeking upskilling, dual study students combining vocational training with academic degrees, non-traditional students without Abitur, secondary school students (YOUniversity), and Bundeswehr veterans. The institution reports 99% graduate employment or further-study outcomes, 83% student recommendation rates (StudyCheck), Best Business School recognition (Deutschland-Test 2025, 37,000 customer voices), and Top Fernstudienanbieter 2026 status (FernstudiumCheck, 12,238 reviews). Distribution is entirely direct-to-consumer via digital tools, campus advisory, online application, and an extensive calendar of info events and open days.
FHM University of Applied Sciences firmographics
Firmographics- Name
- FHM University of Applied Sciences
- Legal name
- Fachhochschule des Mittelstands (FHM)
- Website
- https://fh-mittelstand.de
- Company type
- Private
- Founded year
- 2000
- Operating status
- Operating
- Headcount range
- 11–50 employees
- Short description
- FHM University of Applied Sciences is a private German university founded in 2000, operating 9 physical campuses plus a digital Online-University and offering NC-free Bachelor, Master, Doctoral, and continuing education programs across business, social sciences, health, technology, and media to high school graduates, working professionals, and dual study students in Germany.
- Ownership category
- akta.pro rank
FHM University of Applied Sciences industry classification
Industry- Product category
- Higher Education Services
- NAICS
- Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools (6113)
- SIC
- Services-Educational Services (8200)
- akta.pro primary industry
- Applied Research & Innovation Universities (EDAHAEAE)
- akta.pro secondary industries
- Online Divisions of Traditional Universities (Hybrid/Extension) (EDAHALAB), Online/Hybrid Lifelong Learning Platforms & Open Enrollment Programs (EDAAAEAL)
Keywords
Where FHM University of Applied Sciences is headquartered
LocationHeadquarters
- HQ city
- Bielefeld
- HQ country
- Germany
- HQ region
- Europe
Offices10 records
Markets served
FHM University of Applied Sciences business model
Business model- GTM type
- B2C
- Offering type
- Services
- Cost components
- Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D, Infrastructure
Revenue model
- Tuition Fees: Monthly tuition fees ranging from €281.25 to €765 per month depending on program and study format (full-time, part-time, distance). Fees are structured monthly over the study duration, providing predictable recurring revenue. Top-Up/Aufbaustudium programs offer 50% time and cost savings.
Pricing tiers
| Model | Billing | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Subscription | Monthly | Distance Learning / Fernstudium Bachelor programs |
| Subscription | Monthly | Distance Learning / Fernstudium Master programs |
| Subscription | Monthly | Dual/Trial Study programs |
| Subscription | Monthly | Part-time / Berufsbegleitend programs |
| Subscription | Monthly | Top-Up / Aufbaustudium programs |
| Subscription | Monthly | Full-time / Vollzeit programs |
Go-to-market motion3 records
Distribution channels5 records
Marketing channels8 records
FHM University of Applied Sciences product offering
Product offeringCore offering
FHM University of Applied Sciences is a private, state-approved, non-profit higher education institution offering practice-oriented Bachelor, Master, Doctoral, and Continuing Education programs across six subject areas (Wirtschaft, Pädagogik & Soziales, Psychologie, Gesundheit & Sport, Technologie, Medien & Kommunikation). Programs are delivered through 9 physical German campuses plus a fully digital FHM Online-University in flexible formats including full-time (Vollzeit), part-time (berufsbegleitend), distance learning (Fernstudium), dual/trial study, and Kombi-Studium. The university operates on a monthly subscription-style tuition model and integrates a mandatory AI module (KI in Theorie & Praxis) into all programs.
Product overview
FHM University of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule des Mittelstands) offers a comprehensive higher education portfolio consisting of Bachelor, Master, Doctoral, and Continuing Education programs across six subject areas: Wirtschaft, Pädagogik & Soziales, Psychologie, Gesundheit & Sport, Technologie, and Medien & Kommunikation. The institution provides flexible study formats including Vollzeit (full-time), Berufsbegleitend (part-time), Fernstudium (distance learning via the FHM Online-University), and Duales/Triales Studium (integrated work-study programs). Key offerings include the FHM Online-University platform, the Studifinder tool, YOUniversity for pre-university students, and the Top-Up accelerated programs. The university integrates AI education through the mandatory 'KI in Theorie & Praxis' module across all programs and supports students through a three-tier support system. Unique study formats include Kombi-Studium (blending campus, virtual live, and self-study), dual/trial studies combining apprenticeships with academic degrees, and the FHM.Blog content platform.
Differentiator
Problem solved
Functional benefit
Brands
- FHM Online-University: Digital campus platform for online and distance learning programs.
- FHM International
- FHM Campus
- YOUniversity
- Health University
- FHM.Kompass
Products and services
- Bachelor Programs Undergraduate degree programs (B.A., B.Sc., B.Eng.) across six subject areas: Wirtschaft (Business), Pädagogik & Soziales, Psychologie, Gesundheit & Sport, Technologie, and Medien & Kommunikation. Available in Vollzeit (full-time), Berufsbegleitend (part-time), Fernstudium (distance learning), and Duales/Triales formats. For prospective and current students.
- Master Programs Graduate degree programs (M.A., M.Sc., MMA) including Digital Transformation Management, Cyber Security, Berufspädagogik, Psychologie, Physician Assistance, and Strategische Kommunikation & Digitales Marketing. Available in full-time, part-time, and distance learning formats.
- Doctoral Programs (Promotion) Doctoral program including Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) offered in part-time format for professional advancement. Targets working professionals pursuing doctoral-level qualifications.
- Continuing Education (Weiterbildung) Professional development and continuing education programs including academic Weiterbildungen, modular studies (Modulstudium), and corporate training offerings. Certqua-certified for quality standards. Targets working professionals and corporate clients.
- FHM Online-University (Fernstudium) Digital campus and distance learning platform offering flexible, location-independent study with 100% online learning, personal support, and access to digital learning materials. ZFU-certified programs with up to 6 months free extension option. Targets students seeking flexible, fully online study.
- YOUniversity (Schülerstudium) Pre-university program for students aged 15-18 in Sekundarstufe II, allowing them to explore university topics and earn ECTS credits before completing secondary school. Fully online and flexible. Targets upper secondary school students.
- Top-Up Study Program (Aufbaustudium) Accelerated bachelor's program for individuals with completed vocational training. Recognizes prior training content, reducing study duration by up to 50%. Covers commercial, creative, educational, healthcare, and technical professions. Targets vocationally qualified adults without traditional Abitur.
Quantifiable outcome
- 99% of FHM graduates are employed or in further education after graduation
- +4 more outcomes
Companies that use FHM University of Applied Sciences
Customer profileNamed customers5 records
Segments6 records
Ideal customer profiles3 records
FHM University of Applied Sciences technology and API
TechnologyTechnology focussed No
API detail
- Has API
- No
- API docs
- API detail
Core technology
AI maturity
App detail
AI capability2 records
Feature5 records
FHM University of Applied Sciences partnerships and signals
Strategic signalPartnerships
Five partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.
- Numerous Craft/Trade Chambers (Handwerkskammern)coreFHM collaborates with multiple Handwerkskammern (craft and trade chambers) across Germany as key cooperation partners for the triale Studium (Handwerksmanagement) and other dual programs, enabling the integrated acquisition of Geselle/Gesellin, Meisterbrief, and Bachelor degree.
- Numerous Mittelstand Companies and Businesses (Mittelständische Unternehmen)coreFHM maintains a broad network of Mittelstand (mid-sized enterprise) partners across Germany for student practice phases (SiP – Studium in der Praxis), dual study placements, and collaborative projects. These partners provide students with real-world work experience and serve as potential employers for graduates.
- Kooperationsfachschulen, Fachakademien und Berufskollegs (Partner Vocational Schools)coreFHM partners with cooperating vocational schools, academies, and Berufskollegs to deliver dual study programs in areas such as Social Pedagogy (for Erzieher*innen), Therapy (Ergotherapie, Logopädie, Physiotherapie), and Health (Pflege). These partnerships enable simultaneous dual qualifications (vocational + academic).
- ADAC Nordrhein e.V.minorFHM collaborated with ADAC Nordrhein e.V. on a student project at the ADAC RAVENOL 24h-Rennen at the Nürburgring, giving students hands-on event management and sports marketing experience.
- RTL AdAllianceminorFHM alumna Katharina Blennemann works at RTL AdAlliance, with the partnership evidenced through campus event participation (OMKI conference) and alumni career story content. Serves as a career outcome and industry connection reference.
Scale indicators5 records
Recent moves7 records
Expansion highlights6 records
FHM University of Applied Sciences competitors and assessment
Company assessmentBroad incumbents
- FernUniversität in Hagen: Germany's only state-owned distance learning university, offering a broad portfolio of Bachelor, Master, and doctoral programs. Comparable as a broader incumbent in the same distance-learning category with much larger scale and lower tuition.
Direct peers
- BSP Business and Law School: Private German business school with campuses in Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich offering Bachelor, Master, and dual programs. Comparable to FHM in private UAS positioning, multi-campus model, and business-focused program portfolio.
- Hochschule Macromedia: Private German UAS with multiple campuses offering Bachelor and Master programs in media, management, and creative fields. Comparable to FHM in scope of program portfolio and campus-based private UAS model.
- Wilhelm Büchner Hochschule: One of Germany's largest private Fernhochschulen, offering technology, business, and design programs via distance learning. Comparable to FHM's distance learning portfolio, ZFU certification, and working-professional focus.
- IU Internationale Hochschule: Germany's largest private university with dual on-campus and online degree programs across business, tech, health, and design. Directly comparable to FHM as a private, accredited UAS offering flexible Bachelor and Master programs in multiple formats.
- AKAD University: Private German distance learning university offering accredited Bachelor, Master, and continuing education programs. Directly comparable to FHM Online-University as a ZFU-certified Fernstudium provider targeting working professionals.
- Europäische Fernhochschule Hamburg: Private German distance learning university offering flexible Bachelor and Master programs with monthly fee models. Comparable to FHM Online-University in subscription-style tuition, Fernstudium format, and target student segments.
- SRH Hochschule: Part of the SRH group, a private German UAS with multiple campuses offering full-time and part-time Bachelor and Master programs. Comparable to FHM in multi-campus operations and private UAS positioning.
- FOM Hochschule: Private German UAS focused on working professionals via berufsbegleitende and dual study formats, with multi-city campus presence. Highly comparable to FHM's target segment of working professionals and fee-for-service degree model.
- Hochschule Fresenius: Private German UAS with multiple campuses offering Bachelor, Master, and dual programs across business, health, design, and chemistry. Comparable to FHM in scale, multi-campus model, and practice-oriented program portfolio.
Market position
Strengths5 records
Weaknesses5 records
Competitive moat5 records
Key risks6 records
Key highlights7 records
Customer concentration
FHM University of Applied Sciences social profiles
Digital presenceFHM University of Applied Sciences financial estimates
Financial estimateRevenue estimate
Valuation estimate
FHM University of Applied Sciences leadership team
Management profileNumber of profiles
Profiles7 records
FHM University of Applied Sciences subsidiaries and ownership
Company hierarchySubsidiaries3 records
FHM University of Applied Sciences funding detail
Funding detailFunding overview
Funding rounds
Investors
Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
FHM University of Applied Sciences M&A and investment
M&A and investmentM&A
Investments
M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Frequently asked questions about FHM University of Applied Sciences
What does FHM University of Applied Sciences do?
FHM University of Applied Sciences is a private, state-approved, non-profit higher education institution offering practice-oriented Bachelor, Master, Doctoral, and Continuing Education programs across six subject areas (Wirtschaft, Pädagogik & Soziales, Psychologie, Gesundheit & Sport, Technologie, Medien & Kommunikation). Programs are delivered through 9 physical German campuses plus a fully digital FHM Online-University in flexible formats including full-time (Vollzeit), part-time (berufsbegleitend), distance learning (Fernstudium), dual/trial study, and Kombi-Studium. The university operates on a monthly subscription-style tuition model and integrates a mandatory AI module (KI in Theorie & Praxis) into all programs.
Is FHM University of Applied Sciences a public or private company?
FHM University of Applied Sciences is a private company. It is classified as nonprofit foundation owned and is currently operating.
When was FHM University of Applied Sciences founded?
FHM University of Applied Sciences was founded in 2000. It employs 11 to 50 people.
Where is FHM University of Applied Sciences based?
FHM University of Applied Sciences is headquartered in Bielefeld, Germany, in the Europe region.
How does FHM University of Applied Sciences make money?
One revenue line is on record: tuition Fees.
Who are FHM University of Applied Sciences's main competitors?
FernUniversität in Hagen is listed as a broad incumbent. Direct peers are BSP Business and Law School, Hochschule Macromedia, Wilhelm Büchner Hochschule, IU Internationale Hochschule, AKAD University, Europäische Fernhochschule Hamburg, SRH Hochschule, FOM Hochschule and Hochschule Fresenius.
Does FHM University of Applied Sciences have an API?
No public API is recorded for FHM University of Applied Sciences.
What industry is FHM University of Applied Sciences in?
FHM University of Applied Sciences's product category is Higher Education Services. Its primary akta.pro industry code is EDAHAEAE, Applied Research & Innovation Universities, with a secondary code of EDAHALAB, Online Divisions of Traditional Universities (Hybrid/Extension). Its NAICS code is 6113 and its SIC code is 8200.