Training at Witten/Herdecke University shapes your future

Many roads lead to Witten/Herdecke University (UW/H) - and some of them start with an apprenticeship as an office management assistant. A new training year started on 1 August and the experiences of previous trainees show that this is the right place to start: Those who start here often stay for the long term and help shape the future of the university.

UW/H Chancellor Jan Peter Nonnenkamp emphasises the importance of training for the university's overall development: "We believe that motivated and well-qualified staff are a key to success. That's why we've been training young people ourselves for 40 years - with commitment and conviction."

"So far, we have been able to offer all trainees a job after completing their training. Many are still working for us after twenty years or more. We are very proud of this," adds Ralf Bühler, Head of Human Resources and Legal Affairs.

Versatile insights into university operations

Over the course of three years, the trainees pass through various departments: from Financial Accounting, Controlling and Human Resources to Communications, the Office of Student Affairs and Research Funding. Lucie Jabs, a second-year apprentice, already knows some of these departments well. For example, she helped organise the Christmas party for the university staff and designed an internal sustainability campaign for waste separation - and feels that she has arrived.

"I've been integrated directly into the team everywhere and realise that my opinion counts. That gives me the feeling that I can really make a difference," says Lucie. The 25-year-old was particularly impressed that she was able to take on responsibility: "At the Sustainability Networking Centre, I was able to support an entire project - from research to implementation. I was able to contribute a lot independently and acquire new skills, e.g. in design programmes."

Practical relevance and a sense of community

Eveline Becker, now a permanent employee in Financial Accounting, also has fond memories of her training period: "I not only learned a lot about communication and organisation, but also about precision and personal responsibility. The apprenticeship prepared me perfectly for my current job."

The alternation between vocational school and on-the-job learning provides the professional basis for this. At the same time, UW/H offers a close-knit support system that promotes individual strengths. "We work with the trainees to design a training plan that suits their interests," says trainer Rabea Dietz. "And we attach great importance to teamwork - whether in everyday life or at projects such as the Christmas party, which is traditionally organised by the different trainee years."

The practice-oriented approach to training and regular further training programmes not only promote personal development, but also an understanding of the complex processes of a university. Some former trainees now work in UW/H's finance and accounting department or in the university funding department. In addition, the varied training programme offers a springboard for cross-sector career paths - e.g. in (personnel) administration, accounting, marketing or sales.

Training at the dental clinic

In addition to training as an office management assistant, the UW/H also offers the opportunity to train as a dental assistant (ZFA). In the ultra-modern dental clinic, trainees gain a comprehensive insight into various departments of dentistry. Innovative teaching methods and the consistent combination of theory and practice ensure sound, future-orientated training with the best prospects for starting a career.

Further information: 
The application period for the next possible start of training on 1 August 2026 as an office management assistant has already begun. Interested applicants can still apply until 28 February 2026.

Further information on training at Witten/Herdecke University and the application process can be found here.