The Open University Day at the HSZG inspires over 700 visitors with new degree programs, insights behind the scenes of research and a personal atmosphere.
On March 21, 2026, Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences opened its doors to prospective students, families, alumni and guests from the region. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Open University Day at both campuses in Zittau and Görlitz offered a varied program with numerous opportunities to get to know the courses on offer, research focuses and the special campus atmosphere.
Numerous visitors took the opportunity to find out about study options in person, attend taster lectures and workshops, explore modern laboratories and talk to students and teaching staff. Individual advisory services, hands-on formats and guided tours of the campus were particularly popular. The open canteens, libraries and the advice offered there by service facilities such as Studentenwerk Dresden, the employment agency and the university's health management team also provided authentic insights into everyday student life at the HSZG.
All faculties of the university presented themselves with a wide-ranging program. From (electrical) engineering and natural sciences to economics, computer science and social sciences to secondary school teaching with special education and management, prospective students were given a comprehensive overview of the study opportunities at Saxony's most popular university.
The personal atmosphere on campus and the opportunity to talk directly to students and lecturers was particularly appreciated. Taster lectures, laboratory tours and hands-on activities made it possible to experience the course content and showed how practical and future-oriented studying at the HSZG is.
The new semiconductor technology courses were a particular focus. The Bachelor's degree courses in Semiconductor Processes and Materials Chemistry and Mechatronics for Manufacturing, which specifically prepare students for career prospects in the growing semiconductor industry, particularly in the Silicon Saxony network, were presented. In addition, the university provided information for the first time about the new Management orientation course, which offers prospective students a structured opportunity to hone their interests and make a sound start to their business studies.
Other study programmes with special perspectives, such as teaching, international studies or future-oriented topics such as sustainability and digitalization, met with great interest.
The day was characterized by intensive discussions, numerous encounters and a noticeably open atmosphere. Many visitors took the opportunity to gain a personal impression of the university and its study conditions. Rector Prof. Dr.-Ing. Alexander Kratzsch was delighted with the positive response.
I have received extremely positive feedback from many participants, both in personal conversations and afterwards. It is particularly pleasing that the warmth with which our guests were welcomed at the university was emphasized time and again.
”One former student at the Görlitz campus reported: "We are here because it's been 30 years since we studied and we wanted to see what has changed. Next year, we might hold our seminar group meeting right here." Students already enrolled at the HSZG were also enthusiastic about what was on offer that day. "I read that the canteen was open on Open University Day," says computer science Master's student Jonathan Zopf. "I live just around the corner and thought, cool, I'll have my lunch straight away."
After the event, the Rector reported personal feedback that made him very happy. A father who visited the university in Zittau with his daughter wrote to him afterwards: "I was with my daughter at your open day. She is interested in your degree program European Business. I would like to add that she was extremely enthusiastic about the day and was very impressed by many aspects of your university, especially the intensive support she felt she received."
More than 200 members of the university, including teaching staff, employees and students, were involved in the preparation and implementation of the Open University Day. Thanks to their personal commitment, prospective students were able to gain authentic insights into studies, research and campus life.
A day like this depends on the personal commitment of many individuals. Without your commitment, your time and your willingness to present our university so openly and convincingly, this event of this quality would not have been possible. I would like to thank you very much for this.
”The Open University Day also attracted attention in the regional media. Among others, Radio Lausitz reported on the diverse insights into studies, research and campus life as well as the wide range of programs offered at both locations.
With the Open University Day, the HSZG once again offered an ideal opportunity to get to know study options in a practical way and to make personal contacts. The event showed what makes studying at the HSZG so special: personal support, modern study conditions and a close connection between the university, region and practice.
Photos Zittau: Rafael Sampedro
Photos Görlitz: Kevin Kaczmar
