Life on Campus

Lively academic culture

A "lively academic culture" and "creative unrest" are welcome on the campus of Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz. Facing the issues of the day, theoretically reflecting on society’s current problems, seeking solutions, developing perspectives on the future: The university views its challenge as forging a bridge between scientific knowledge and life as it is lived in the world. In particular as part of general studies and the activities of the Center for Intercultural Studies, contemporary witnesses, prominent individuals from the world of politics and the economy, internationally recognized scientists, as well as well-known writers, musicians and artists, authors and directors join in the discussion.

General studies: Seeing the bigger picture

The university is deeply committed to the interdisciplinary expansion of professional study and the promotion of cross-disciplinary approaches to research and learning. General studies therefore have a special significance at Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz. They provide a context for the study of currently relevant or basic academic fields. Each semester, approximately 15,000 visitors come to more than 150 events. University of Mainz meetings, lecture series, workshops, discussions and excursions deal with a wide range of subjects, from "The Brain and the Mind" to "The Individual and Society" to "Virtual Worlds." Internationally recognized personalities such as Fritz Stern, winner of the 1999 German Book Fair peace prize, the American sociologist Neil Postman or representatives of modern brain research are invited as guests on campus by the General Studies department.

In addition to this program, the university, as one of the few campus-based universities in Germany, provides many opportunities for active free time – in the choir or orchestra of the collegium musicum or the EuropaChor Academy, in the many courses offered by the University Sports League, theater groups and the movie club, or as part of the many student initiatives. An annual high point of the student events is the AstA summer festival, which attracts thousands of partygoers to the campus. And for those who prefer something more tranquil, the botanical garden provides an oasis of serenity and relaxation.