The Technical Universities (Technische Universität, TU) mainly impart theoretical knowledge. The courses are very academically inclined with varied subject groups. At a university, you can also pursue a doctorate (doctoral degree) which is not possible in a University of Applied Sciences.
Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule) offer practice-oriented academic courses. The focus is more on professional application rather than theory and the training is adapted to the requirements of professional life. As at universities, the first degree is the bachelor's and the second is the master's. The range of subjects comprise fields such as technology, economics, social work or medicine. During the practical phases, which form part of the course and may last for one or more semesters, the focus is on work placements and project phases at companies in Germany and abroad.