Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg has a distinctive profile. It aims to create a lean and sharply-defined structure with its main focus of expertise in the traditional areas of engineering, the natural sciences and medicine. It also views economics and management and the social sciences and humanities as essential disciplines for a modern university in the information age. The University sees its main task as raising the standard of education and scholarship through teaching and research. As the man from whom we take our name, we are indebted to Otto von Guericke. His name represents:

  • the application of scientific methods,
  • the quest for innovation and new knowledge, and
  • the assumption of social responsibility for today's and future generations.

Profile – Notwithstanding the concept of "universitas", Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg nevertheless sees itself as having a distinctive profile. It aims to create a lean and sharply-defined structure with its main focus of expertise in the traditional areas of engineering, the natural sciences and medicine. It also views economics and management and the social sciences and humanities as essential disciplines for a modern university in the information age.
As a bridge between Eastern and Western Europe the University’s task is to contribute to the thorough internationalisation of research and education as well as the establishment of closer cultural relations.

Community – Our University is a community of staff and students that is based on openness, trust, tolerance and cooperation. It aims to create a productive environment which promotes health and achievement. Equality of opportunity for women and men and helping our students and staff to reconcile their studies, career and family life are key obligations for us.

Teaching – When it comes to teaching, we are fully conscious of our responsibility to our students. We aim to deliver a very high standard of scientific education that is based on the latest research developments. We aim to encourage creative individuals who are capable of critical thought, can solve problems, work in teams and who have a sense of responsibility.
Our degrees aim to equip students for the world of work, although we place more emphasis on general work-place abilities than specific job-related skills. We promote life-long learning with a range of in-service and further education programmes.

Research – We pride ourselves on the high quality of our research and its level of scientific and social relevance. We consider the ethical implications of our research methods and their possible social and environmental consequences and give these a high priority.
We consider the integration of research and teaching and academic freedom to be essential principles. We place emphasis on achieving high levels of performance in the areas that make up the University's distinctive profile. We particularly encourage interdisciplinary and international projects.

Society – The University is funded from the public purse and has the right to self-govern as well as a duty to self-regulate. Our brief is to work in the interests of society and to inform the public­ of our activities. The University should take a critical approach towards current developments and make these critical views public.

We are conscious that the work and conduct of every member of the University contributes to the University's public image.