The University of Applied Sciences Jena (Ernst-Abbe-Hochschule Jena, EAH) was founded on 1 October 1991 as one of the first institutions of higher education of its kind in the eastern German states. Short study periods and a practical orientation form a perfect complement to the education received at traditional universities and technical universities. Currently, the nine departments of University of Applied Sciences Jena offer a wide selection of Bachelor's and Master's programmes covering engineering sciences, business administration and social and health sciences. At present, approx. 4,300 students are enrolled at the EAH Jena. This number includes about 1,000 international students. The teaching staff comprises 124 professors and 29 teachers for special tasks. The EAH's total staff of approx. 500 also includes people engaged in various projects, in administration and in services as well as two apprentices. More than 26,000 m² of floor space, the EAH Jena boasts more than 124 extremely well-equipped, specialised laboratories and rooms for practical courses, seven modern lecture halls and 52 seminar rooms. The teaching rooms, labs and offices are accommodated in five campus buildings of considerable architectural interest.
In the interest of a scientifically profound and practically oriented education, the university cooperates with universities in Europe and beyond. Intensive cooperation is also maintained with industry: world-famous companies like Zeiss, JENOPTIK, Siemens, Bosch, and the industrial research institutions in Jena represent modern technology, up-to-date management and scientific innovation.