2015

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Welcome to ESB Business School! Dear Exchange Students, Congratulations on your decision to study at ESB Business School! As International Relations Officer for our Production Management and International Logistics Management study programmes, I would like to warmly welcome you. I sincerely believe that you will be fully satisfied with the academic quality of our courses. At ESB Business School, we are committed to ensuring that all our exchange students have a truly stimulating and rewarding experience while studying at Reutlingen. Our team of international student advisors will do their utmost to support you throughout your stay and to help with the necessary preparations before you arrive. We have compiled this guide to give you some practical information about your period of study as an exchange student at ESB Business School. You will find information relating to your courses, as well as about the city of Reutlingen and it surroundings. Reutlingen is well-known for its attractive location and vibrant cultural life. We have tried to provide you with many useful tips that we hope will motivate you to explore this beautiful region. Do not hesitate to contact us at any time if you have any questions not fully answered in this guide. I, for my part, wish you a happy and fruitful time studying at ESB Business School. I am convinced that the experience will benefit you both personally and in your later studies, as well as enhancing your future employment opportunities.

Professor Hazel Grünewald Head of International Relations ESB Business School Reutlingen University (Information and details correct as of February 2015)

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Contents A 1. 1.1 1.2 1.3 2 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 B 1 1.1 1.2 2 2.1 2.2 3 C 1 1.1 1.2 1.3 2 3 4 4.1 4.2 5 5.1 5.2 D 1 1.1 1.2 2 2.1 2.2 3 4 4.1

Welcome to Reutlingen University ..................................................................................5 Reutlingen University ................................................................................................... 5 The university’s 5 faculties .............................................................................................. 7 Facts and figures at a glance .......................................................................................... 7 ESB Business School ....................................................................................................... 8 Operations Management degree programmes at ESB Business School ................... 9 International Logistics Management .............................................................................. 9 Production Management .............................................................................................. 10 International Operations and Logistics Management ................................................ 11 Important contacts within your study programme ...................................................... 12 Courses for international students ............................................................................13 Basic Information about the German system ............................................................13 Credits ............................................................................................................................ 13 Examinations ................................................................................................................. 14 Courses for exchange students .................................................................................16 Courses taught in English ............................................................................................. 16 Regular courses taught in German .............................................................................. 16 Additional German-language courses and workshops ..............................................17 Orientation and enrolment ........................................................................................18 Arrival .........................................................................................................................18 Arriving from Stuttgart airport ...................................................................................... 18 Arriving from other airports........................................................................................... 18 Arriving by car ................................................................................................................ 18 Academic calendar / semester dates .......................................................................20 Orientation meeting ...................................................................................................21 Enrollment..................................................................................................................21 Essential documents for enrollment ............................................................................ 21 Checklist for incoming exchange students.................................................................. 22 Formalities .................................................................................................................23 Visa ................................................................................................................................. 23 Registering at the Citizen Centre (for all students!) and applying for a residence permit.................................................................................... 23 Campus life ................................................................................................................25 Important places on campus .....................................................................................25 Student Office................................................................................................................ 25 Reutlingen International Office (RIO) ........................................................................... 26 Additional campus services .......................................................................................27 The refectory and cafeteria (Mensa)............................................................................ 27 Bookstore Jung (Buchhandlung) .................................................................................. 27 Sports .........................................................................................................................27 Learning Centre .........................................................................................................28 Reutlingen University library ......................................................................................... 28

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4.2 5 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 6 6.1 6.2 E 1 2 2.1 2.2 2.3 3 3.1 4

Nearby libraries ............................................................................................................. 29 Computing and network facilities ..............................................................................30 General computer access ............................................................................................. 30 Computer access within ESB Business School ........................................................... 30 Wireless, laptops ........................................................................................................... 31 BSCW server / Relax platform ...................................................................................... 31 Labs ................................................................................................................................ 31 Career service: career center and company fairs .....................................................32 Career Advice................................................................................................................. 33 Company Fairs ............................................................................................................... 33 Life in Reutlingen .......................................................................................................34 Reutlingen City ...........................................................................................................34 Accommodation .........................................................................................................36 Halls of Residences....................................................................................................... 36 Private housing market ................................................................................................. 39 Temporary accommodation .......................................................................................... 39 Cost of living...............................................................................................................40 Financial assistance ..................................................................................................... 40 Contact .......................................................................................................................41

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A

Welcome to Reutlingen University

1. Reutlingen University The international dimension is one of the hallmarks of our university. This has always been the case, not just since the start of globalisation. At the time of its foundation as a weaving school in 1855, Reutlingen Technical College was already popular among technical students from home and abroad. Nowadays Reutlingen University, winner of Germany’s International University of the Year 2010, maintains intensive contacts with more than 140 partner universities worldwide. With around 20 % of its students coming from outside Germany it has the highest proportion of international students of all German-speaking universities. Many of the University’s professors and other staff members themselves also come from outside Germany or have international experience. Moreover, each year around 600 Reutlingen students spend a semester abroad as part of their degree programme, either studying or for work experience. Reutlingen University, consistently rated among the top universities in several fields, prides itself on its international reputation for academic excellence: “Our vision is to be one of the leading universities in Europe delivering international and business-oriented higher education and executive training programmes.” An international dimension, an interdisciplinary approach, practically oriented degree programmes, support for students’ personal development and social responsibility: these are the most important features which have made us famous on both a national and international level – as a university renowned for Engineering, Business, Informatics and Design. We are committed to innovative teaching methods in an attractive learning environment, and promote applied research and development. Reutlingen University is a reliable and innovative research partner, and cooperates with enterprises, with other Universities of Applied Sciences, with traditional research-oriented universities and research institutes – both in collaborative research and in individual projects. Moreover, in recent years, we have witnessed an increase in the number of graduates participating in so-called joint doctoral programmes with traditional universities in Germany and abroad.

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1.1 The university’s 5 faculties Reutlingen University comprises 5 faculties, each of which offers high-quality degree programmes at Bachelor’s and Master’s level, each is inspired by innovative research:

1.2 Facts and figures at a glance More than 150 years of tradition Total number of students

> 5,600

… foreign students

> 1,100

… professors

~ 150

… assistant professors

~ 250

… support staff

~ 260

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1.3 ESB Business School ESB Business School ranks among the top international business schools in Germany. Many rankings provide strong evidence for our excellent standing in the field of international and practice-oriented education and training for carefully selected students and practitioners. Our reputation is based upon a strong international orientation, close co-operation with highly reputed partner universities and a network of top partner companies unparalleled in Germany. ESB Business School was one of the first state schools to offer integrated international degrees, which it has been awarding for more than 40 years now. ESB Business School is the largest faculty of Reutlingen University. With nearly 60 professors and around 2,400 students, ESB Business School is one of the biggest business schools in Germany. ESB Business School currently offers twenty Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes. In the ESB study programmes, students work in small international and interdisciplinary groups. Professors and external lecturers from the world of business teach the fundamental academic principles of business studies, with contents based on current real world experience. A wide range of teaching methods ensures that knowledge can be acquired actively and in the context of students’ intercultural professional experience. Throughout and beyond their studies, students experience a cooperative and stimulating atmosphere. Communication at the school and across borders, by direct contact and via media supported platforms enables learning in an action-oriented and results-focused manner. Projects, computer-based management simulations, and case studies allow students to become familiar with the complexity of business management tasks. In the Operations Management programmes, practical technological knowledge is acquired in laboratories, learning workshops, three-day projects and international management simulations using virtual reality technology.

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2

Operations Management degree programmes School

at ESB Business

Your home institution has a partnership agreement with the International Operations Management (International Logistics Management, Production Management, International Operations and Logistics Management) study programmes offered by ESB Business School: Our degree programmes are designed to meet the requirements of today’s fastest-growing industries and to prepare you for a successful career at the interface of business and technology. Our graduates are to be found in a broad spectrum of management positions in medium-sized and global manufacturing industries and also with such service providers as IT and telecommunications companies, banks and consultancies. We offer:  interdisciplinary programmes combining technology and business  a strong international presence through multinational groups  small group teaching enabling close contact to professors and fellow students  simulation using state-of-the-art technology  an integrated industrial placement and industry based projects  experienced lecturers with extensive management and professional experience  excellent career opportunities including the chance to organise and participate in career fairs, business forums and excursions

2.1 International Logistics Management The International Logistics Management study programme focuses on business and logistics network planning and design with majors in operations research, transport and distribution networks, supply chain management, procurement and manufacturing logistics and international logistics law. The technical focus course consists of electrical engineering, information and communication technology, transport and material handling, warehouse and factory planning, as well as virtual collaborative logistics and logistics planning in international, globally distributed teams.

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BSc. Semester 1 Semester 2 Semester 3 Semester 4 Semester 5 Semester 6 Semester 7

Foundation course in business studies and technology Focus: Logistic networks and technology Industrial placement Focus: Logistic networks and technology Study abroad or semester in Reutlingen taught entirely in English Final semester with integrated bachelor thesis

2.2 Production Management The Production Management study programme consists of business administration with majors in enterprise resource planning, quality management and controlling. The technical focus provides an insight into mechanical engineering, computer science and electrical engineering with majors in materials, plant engineering and construction, as well as core production processes. BSc. Semester 1 Semester 2 Semester 3 Semester 4 Semester 5 Semester 6 Semester 7

Foundation course in business studies and technology Focus: Product development and manufacturing Industrial placement Focus: Process management Study abroad or semester in Reutlingen taught entirely in English Final semester with integrated bachelor thesis

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2.3 International Operations and Logistics Management This programme prepares our students comprehensively and thoroughly for an international career in industry, trade or consulting. It combines technical and business administration aspects and the two majors (logistics networks and logistics technologies) strike up an excellent balance between technology and business administration

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2.4 Important contacts within your study programme Professor Andreas Taschner (Building 17012) [email protected]

International Logistics Management / International Operations and Logistics Management Programme Director

Professor Kristina Steinbiß (Building 15-020) kristina.steinbiß@reutlingen-university.de

Production Management Programme Director

Professor Hazel Grünewald (Building 17-013) Head International Relations [email protected]

Laura Giordano (Building 15-006) [email protected]

Production Management Academic Coordinator

Oliver Trefzer (Building 17-018) [email protected]

International Logistics Management / International Operations and Logistics Management Academic Coordinator

Heike Trost (Building 17-017) [email protected]

Operations Management Programmes Officer International Affairs (Study & Internships) Regional Coordinator

Petra Greiner (Building 17-005) [email protected]

Operations Management Programmes Project Coordinator Double Degree Malaysia Regional Coordinator

Sabine Kaufmann-Nell (Building 15-002) [email protected]

Operations Management Programmes Secretary

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B

Courses for international students

1

Basic Information about the German system

Lectures generally last 90 minutes or 2 academic hours (2 SWS – Semesterwochenstunden). In between lectures, there is usually a 15-minute break. Be warned, your courses may start at 7.30 am! It is also not uncommon for courses to be delivered in blocks, i.e. instead of 2 hours per week, you might have 4 hours per fortnight, or even compact seminars lasting 2/3 days. However, also classes may be much smaller of what you are used to. They generally consist of about 40 students. Most courses are held by full-time staff (Professoren), but we also have a large number of parttime staff (Lehrbeauftragte) who come in from commerce and industry. As in all German academic institutions, relations between academic staff and students may appear more formal than you are perhaps used to in your home institution. If you need to consult a member of staff, you may be expected to keep to his/her official "consultation hour" (Sprechstunde). As a rule, the majority of courses are structured like seminars in which student participation is encouraged and expected. You will be given details of the days, times, and rooms for courses. Changes will be put up on the notice boards or on the notices in front of the rooms.

1.1 Credits 30 ECTS credits represent the workload of a semester of study at ESB Business School. It is possible to take fewer than 30 ECTS credits if this is what is required by your home institution. Credits are awarded only when the course and all required examinations have been successfully completed. An original transcript will be sent to the home institution at the end of the semester. ESB Business School will only keep photocopies of transcripts in their files. All German Universities of Applied Sciences require a high number of contact hours for domestic students, normally in the range of 24-28 hours of lectures per week in any one semester. The number of ECTS credits for each individual course is hence relatively low. The ramifications of this fact need to be discussed with your home institution. Note: Before you come to us, clarify with the International Office or Academic Coordinator at your home institution precisely what academic requirements you need to fulfil while studying at ESB Business School, Reutlingen University (number of courses, credit points, grades etc.). Once you have consulted our course offering, send us a list of the courses you would like to take during your exchange semester. If you have difficulties in finding a corresponding course, send us a list of the courses you require and we will assist you in selecting the appropriate courses. We will give you information about course availability and timetabling, but be aware that this information is sometimes subject to change. Try also to gather impressions and information from those students in your home institution who have been to Reutlingen in the past. Another tip is to get in touch with Reutlingen students who are currently studying at your university.

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1.2 Examinations Written and oral examinations take place in an eight-day period immediately after the end of courses in each semester. Failed examinations are re-taken at the end of the following semester: there is no special "re-sit“ examination in the vacation between semesters, as may be the case in other countries. Students are responsible for registering for examinations on the dates stipulated by the University’s examinations office. Usually there is one week during semester in which you have to register for most of your exams. Since you are not able to register afterwards, do not miss this registration period. Depending on what course you choose, marks/grades are obtained by either a presentation or seminar paper (Referat) delivered in class, an individual project (Hausarbeit), or formal exam (Klausur). Papers will probably be in the range of 10 - 20 pages. Some courses run over two semesters, with a single examination at the end of the second semester. It is sometimes possible to arrange an assessment at the end of the first semester for exchange students. In some cases, a specific course may be combined with another for examination purposes, e.g. 2 hrs within a 4 hour-examination. In such cases, exchange students can register for either the individual parts or the whole examination, if agreed with the lecturer well beforehand. At the end of their period of study in Reutlingen, all exchange students and their home universities will be provided with an ECTS Transcript showing courses attended, and grades/credits achieved in assessment. The grading/marking system used in the School is the traditional German system, which runs from 1.0 (the highest possible grade) to 5.0 (the lowest possible grade), with 4.0 as the minimum passing grade. Reutlingen grades are expressed as follows: 1.0 – 4.0 4.7 – 5.0 NB BE

passing grades failing grades successfully completed, but without formal assessment

Equivalence of grades on an international/global scale is a complex – and highly emotive – topic, and the School does not attempt to convert grades achieved in Reutlingen into the grading system of exchange students’ home countries or educational institutions. In addition, the prescribed ECTS grading system using the passing grades A, B, C, D, and E, plus the failing grades FX and F, will be used on all ECTS Transcripts. An average grade (or GPA) for the semester is not used usually in Germany, and is not included on our ECTS transcript.

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2

Courses for exchange students

2.1 Courses taught in English Our undergraduate International Logistics Management and Production Management study programmes offer the 6th semester exclusively in English. An up-to-date course list can be found on our website. Exchange students seeking courses in English can also choose from a range of additional undergraduate courses and Business English courses and under certain conditions as well from master courses (considered appropriate for bachelor students). Contact our academic coordinators to get the latest version sent to you. German language courses (incl. Business German and online courses) are also offered at all levels. These courses are free of charge and ECTS credits are awarded for most of them. In addition to the above-mentioned courses, exchange students have the chance to take part in courses offered as part of the university’s Kettering Programme each fall semester, a tailormade programme for international students, taught entirely in English offered by RIO – the Reutlingen International Office. Additional Business Management / Operations Management courses within the Kettering Programme are (4 ECTS per lecture): Germany within Europe - Past and Present European Business Law International Business with Case Studies in Automotive Industry: - Daimler, Sindelfingen, Rastatt or Untertürkheim - Porsche, Stuttgart - Audi, Ingolstadt - Opel, Rüsselsheim - BMW, Munich For further information see our website or contact your Academic Coordinator at ESB Business School.

2.2 Regular courses taught in German Exchange students seeking courses in German can choose from a wide range of subjects in our regular offering. See the online course catalogue at our website.

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3

Additional German-language courses and workshops

Reutlingen International Office (RIO) offers a range of pre-sessional and regular German language courses for all international students. Especially the pre-sessional German-language course is a good opportunity to meet other exchange students from other faculties. The semester courses are offered at all levels from beginners to advanced. Business German and online courses are also available. These courses are free of charge and ECTS credits are awarded for most of them. The intensive preparatory German language and culture courses take place in September (3 weeks) and March (10 days) respectively. This course also includes several welcome activities. We highly recommend these language courses to you as they will facilitate your start and integration at Reutlingen. Finally, we would encourage you take advantage of the wide variety of workshops on intercultural management, job applications and specialist business areas provided by RIO for both foreign and German students. You can find a list of this offering by clicking on RIO’s website: http://www.reutlingenuniversity.de/en/international/

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C

Orientation and enrolment

1

Arrival

1.1 Arriving from Stuttgart airport The Expresso bus (X3) from Stuttgart Airport to Reutlingen runs once an hour from early in the morning to late in the evening; services on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays are also available. The bus is painted with yellow and black squares, and the bus stop is right in front of the airport exit. The trip to Reutlingen takes about 45 minutes and costs around € 5. You should ask for the bus stop in Reutlingen called "Unter den Linden"; here you have to change to bus No. 4 to travel to the campus (approx. 10 minutes). Get out at the bus stop Hochschulen or directly one stop earlier at Pestalozzistraße, where the dorms are located.

1.2 Arriving from other airports If you arrive at any other airport in Germany, take a train directly from the airport to Stuttgart’s main train station. Frankfurt airport has a train station for ICE and IC (long-distance intercity) trains located in Terminal 1. Trains to Stuttgart usually arrive and depart on platforms 4 to 7. The train ride to Stuttgart will take about an hour-and-a-half. Stuttgart train station is a oneway train station. Take the train in the direction of Tübingen, which runs at least once an hour. Get out at Reutlingen main station (Reutlingen Hauptbahnhof). Leave the train station through the main entrance, turn right and right along Bahnhofstrasse and walk along the street as far as bus stop Number 4 Unter den Linden, going in the direction Hohbuch. Take this No. 4 and get out at the bus stop Hochschulen, or directly in the Pestalozzistraße, where the dorms and the campus are located.

1.3 Arriving by car Take the motorway (highway) A8, Exit Reutlingen/Tübingen. National highway (interstate) B 27 in the direction of Tübingen, Exit Reutlingen Nord. In Reutlingen head for the city centre and then follow the signs to the university (Hochschule).

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Campus plan

20

20

Interimsgebäude WIng/Technik

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2

Academic calendar / semester dates

The university operates on a semester basis, i.e. two semesters in a twelve month period, and does not offer summer sessions. The semesters consist of approx. 15 lecturing weeks (i.e. not counting vacation periods at Christmas and Easter), and begin in the early March and the beginning of October (the precise dates vary, of course, with the year`s calendar). The School’s Operations Management programmes admit undergraduate and graduate students in both the semesters. Hence all courses and examinations are offered every semester. Semester schedule for the summer semester 2015 (subject to changes) Semester start Business fair IBF Exam registration Block seminar week

09.03.2015 April 2015 11. – 18.05.2015 11.-17.05.2015

End of lectures

03.07.2015

Examinations

04. – 11.07.2014

Holidays

03. – 10.04.2015 (Easter) 01.05.2015 (Labour day) 14.05.2015 (Ascension Day) 25. – 29.5.2015 (Pentecost) 04.06.2015 (Corpus Christi)

Semester schedule for the winter semester 2015/16 (subject to changes) Semester start Business fair FIFO Exam registration Block seminar week

05.10.2015 November 2015 23.-30.11.2015 23.-29.11.2015

End of lectures

29.01.2016 (please note: most courses in English will be finished by December 2015!)

Examinations

30.01 - 06.02.2016 (in December 2015 for most of the courses taught in English)

Holidays

01.11.2015 (All Saints) 22.12.2015 - 06.01.2016 (Christmas / New Year)

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3

Orientation meeting

If possible, try to arrive a week before courses start (residence accommodation can be taken up from Sept 1 or March 1). This will give you time to familiarise yourself with your surroundings, settle into your accommodation, open a bank account and start your linguistic acclimatisation. An early arrival is particularly advisable if you have not been offered residence accommodation. Before lectures begin, you will be invited to an official Welcome Session. Here you will meet the staff responsible for student exchange as well as your “student buddies”, who will be allocated to you personally and will assist you in all administrative and academic matters over the first few weeks. Attendance by all new exchange students is essential, since this meeting will also be used to finalise your course selection and timetable and to complete a number of formalities regarding your official registration as a student at Reutlingen University. Assistance will be offered (where necessary in English, French and German!) by one or more of the student tutors and the coordinators. It is vital, that you bring the appropriate supporting documentation from home and your home university (see below). At this meeting you will receive a comprehensive information package containing class/lecture schedules for all ESB degree programmes, local bus timetables, applications for student travel cards, maps, brochures on Reutlingen, documents for registering at the City Hall, a schedule of important dates/deadlines for the whole semester, a list of “places to go”. Additionally, we will explain how to register with the AOK Krankenkasse (Health Insurance Fund) and how to set up an e-mail account at the university (you will need to do this, even if you have a private e-mail account). Time permitting, discussions will be held with you about setting up your own class schedule. Later in the semester, you will have to register for the course examinations. Weather permitting the meeting will finish up with a short guided tour of Reutlingen with your student tutors.

4

Enrollment

4.1 Essential documents for enrollment Please check our website for the latest regulations. When you arrive in Reutlingen, you will need the following documents in order to be registered as an exchange student: • • •

Your CV/résumé A formal letter from your home institution certifying that you are registered as a student there for the period you are in Reutlingen, and on what programme you are enrolled at your home university. This letter must be in German or English. A copy of your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for EU-students. Non-EU students must also provide evidence that they have health insurance for the duration of their stay (in the form of a health insurance certificate or card from your home insurance provider)

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•

1 passport photograph

4.2 Checklist for incoming exchange students University enrolment

Submitted on

Comments

Submitted on

Comments

Submitted on

Comments

Letter confirming registration at home institution and enrolment at ESB Personal identification documents – full valid passport (not temporary visitor’s passport) Acceptance letter from ESB (for non-EU students) 1 Passport photo European Health Insurance (Card valid for entire stay in Reutlingen) Or health insurance certificate for non-EU students An insurance policy covering medical care (e.g. AOK) and third party liability (recommended) Please note: We recommend that your insurance covers costs up to 100,000 € Curriculum Vitae / Resume (German or English) Administration fee paid Course of study Course catalogue; learning agreement (30 credits) Examinations registered for German course (recommended) End of the semester Academic transcript

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5

Formalities

5.1 Visa If you are not an EU citizen, you might need a visa to enter Germany. Please check whether a visa is required for your country of origin. This visa can only be obtained via the German embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Please contact us if you need a “Letter of acceptance” in order to apply for a visa. Please note that it is your own responsibility to apply for a visa in time for your travel.

5.2 Registering at the Citizen Centre (for all students!) and applying for a residence permit All students have to register at the city of Reutlingen within a week of moving here. You need to go the Citizen Centre (Bürgeramt). Non-EU students will also have to go to the Foreigners' Registration Office (Ausländerbehörde) to apply for a residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) after being registered by the Citizen Center. The Registration Office is located in Reutlingen City Hall (Rathaus). Citizen Centre Address: Stadt Reutlingen Bürgeramt Ground Floor Marktplatz 22 72764 Reutlingen Tel. 07121/303-5577 Opening hours:

Mon and Tue: Wed: Thu: Fri:

Documents:

Passport

08:00 - 12:30 08:00 - 12:30 and 14:00 - 16:00 08:00 - 12:30 and 14:00 - 18:00 08:00 - 13:00

Please note: When you register, you have to state where your main place of residence (Wohnsitz) is. Normally, this is your place of study, so you need to put a cross in the Reutlingen box. When you leave Reutlingen for an internship or after your study semester you have to deregister from city of Reutlingen.

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What should I bring to apply for a residency permit? Important: To apply for the residency visa with immigration authorities, you have to first be registered with the city (completed within the first 7 days after your arrival). You have to bring with you: 1. Passport 2. Passport picture 3. Money for receiving your electronic residency visa: a. 100 € for up to a year extension b. 110 € for more than a year extension 4. Proof of Finances, for example: Bank Deposits, Bank Statement, Pledge, Grant Information 5. Proof of Health Insurance 6. Proof of Enrollment (at Reutlingen University) 7. Application Form Foreigners Registration Office Address: Rathaus (City Hall), building Oskar-Kalbfell-Platz Basement Oskar-Kalbfell-Platz 21 72764 Reutlingen Tel. 07121/303-2278

The Foreigner’s Registration Office (Ausländerabteilung) is located in the City Hall of Reutlingen. The office is below the Ground Floor (in the Basement). The entrance is circled in white.

Opening hours:

Mon and Tue: Wed: Thu: Fri:

08:00 - 12:00 14:00 - 16:00 08:00 - 12:00 and 14:00 - 18:00 08:00 - 13:00

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D

Campus life

The university occupies spacious modern buildings on a “green” campus on the south-western edge of town. The dormitories and the cafeteria are situated just a few minutes away from the classrooms. The sports park lies within walking distance, as does the city centre with its good shopping and leisure facilities, including many pubs and clubs. On campus you will find a refectory and snack cafeteria, a library, a computing centre, a bookshop, travel agent, a swimming pool and the university’s students bar Care which is located in the refectory’s basement. There are ample parking spaces on campus for those students with cars.

1

Important places on campus

1.1 Student Office Reutlingen University student office (StudienServiceCenter) aims to support you with any administrative questions you might have e.g. regarding leave of absence, removal from the student register, changes in your contact details, fees etc. The office will also provide you with your international student ID (ISIC) and “CampusCaRT”. CampusCaRT is Reutlingen University's multi-functional chip-card with a range of functions:  

it acts as your student ID card it allows you to borrow books and other media from the university Library

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

you can use it to make cashless payments in the cafeteria (Mensa) and in other places run by the "Studentenwerk Tübingen"

At our student office you also can also apply for accommodation. StudienServiceCenter

Office hours:

building 3, room 3-004

Mon - Thu: 08:00 –16:00 Fri: 08:00 – 12:00

Tel: +49 - 7121 - 271-1060 E-Mail: [email protected]

1.2 Reutlingen International Office (RIO) Reutlingen International Office (RIO) is a central academic service unit of the university, and offers support and advice on international matters to German and international students, to academic staff from all faculties, and also to guests of the university. Functions and services       

Maintenance and coordination of the university's international contacts Information about grants and other types of funding in Germany and abroad Information and advice about periods abroad (language courses, studying, internships, theses) Information for international applicants about studying in Reutlingen Courses in German as a Foreign Language, programmes for international students Intercultural competence workshops, CV preparation and interview techniques in English Organisation of excursions and cultural events for international students

Contact International Office Reutlingen University, Building 3, rooms 216 - 219 Alteburgstr. 150 72762 Reutlingen Germany Tel: +49 - 7121 - 271 1006 Fax: +49 - 7121 - 271 1103 Office hours: Tue – Fri: Mon, Tue, Thu:

09:00 – 12:00 14:00 – 16:00

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2

Additional campus services

Below you can find some information about some information about additional services available on our campus in Building 7.

2.1 The refectory and cafeteria (Mensa) A daily menu is published online. : http://www.reutlingen-university.de/en/while-studying/life-oncampus/where-to-eat-the-mensa/ Lunch served

Monday – Friday

11.30– 1.45

Cafeteria Monday – Thursday (during the semes- Friday ter)

8.30 – 4.30 8.30 – 4.00

Cafeteria (outside the semester)

8.30 – 3.00 8.30 – 2.30

Monday – Thursday Friday

2.2 Bookstore Jung (Buchhandlung) Campus Shop website: www.buch-jung.de Tel: 07121/929200 Opening hours: Mon- Fri 9.00 - 13.00

3

Sports

On campus, sporting activities are organised free of charge by the Student Association AStA. Further information can be found on the Reutlingen University’s website : http://www.reutlingen-university.de/en/while-studying/life-on-campus/sport/ The variety of sports on offer is extensive: swimming, basketball, football, rock climbing, rope skipping, standard dance, capoeira or thai bo –to name but a few…

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An indoor swimming centre (open in winter only) is located in the city centre. Closer to campus is the outdoor swimming pool at Marktwasen (open from May 1st till autumn). Outdoor running tracks and soccer fields are situated close to campus. Reutlingen and its beautiful surroundings offer the visitor numerous castles, baroque abbeys, rivers and waterfalls as well as excellent opportunities for walking, biking, hiking and winter sports. Reutlingen has an ice rink in winter.

4

Learning Centre

The Learning Centre offers a wide variety of facilities to support working and studying at the university. Two large reading rooms with study areas, single and group study cabins, diverse group rooms and lounges, computer rooms and a cafeteria. This makes the Learning Centre a central meeting point for everyone on campus. The central part of the Learning Centre is the service desk in the entrance area. To complete the services the Learning Centre runs classes for students, researchers and staff on finding, evaluating and organizing information. The Learning Centre also hosts the Reutlingen University library. Opening hours (semester period):

4.1 Reutlingen University library The university library is located on campus and serves both the Reutlingen and the Pedagogical University of Ludwigsburg. The library has approximately 200,000 books and some 500 current journals. Electronic services Besides printed books and periodicals, the university library has a number of full-text and reference databases as well as electronic journals, which can be accessed on the campus network and from external computers. An online catalogue provides self-service functions such as catalogue searches, information about circulation status, links to booksellers, catalogues,

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links to systematic searches, a statement of your account with information on borrowed items, reservations and renewals. You will find approx. 56,000 e-journals and 29,000 e-books. Library tours and database training courses are offered regularly. How to borrow books and use electronic databases You can use your student ID (Campus CaRT) to borrow books and you can check in self-service your library account. The library provides not only German-language materials, but also international press and literature. Copy cards for various photocopiers on campus can be purchased at the front desk of the library. All books can be borrowed. Periodicals, newspapers and books marked "Lesesaal - keine Ausleihe" ("for reference only") can be read at the library. The standard loan period is four weeks. If you need the books for a longer period you can prolong the period very easily for another four-week period (maximum three times). Fees Using the library and borrowing books is free of charge. But please be prepared to pay fees whenever you miss to return books in time. Please return your books during opening hours at the loans desk or use the return box outside the library.

4.2 Nearby libraries With a Reutlingen University ID card you may also use the Tübingen University Library on Wilhelmstrasse in Tübingen. This library is known for its vast archives (6 million volumes and almost 8,000 journals) and specialises in philosophical, medical, law, theological, scientific and linguistic works. It is excellent for research, especially if you read German. The building provides a number of computer terminals and spaces to study. Contact: Universitätsbibliothek Tübingen Wilhelmstraße 32 72016 Tübingen Tel: 07071/2972846, Website: www.ub.uni-tuebingen.de

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Reutlingen City Library (Stadtbibliothek) is one of the best in Baden-Württemberg. It offers a wide range of books and other media in German and other languages. With a library card, you can borrow material from over 300,000 items for a 4-week period, including books in several languages, periodicals, language learning programmes, sheet music, audio cassettes/CDs, videos and DVDs, and even board games. The library is located on Spendhausstrasse (next to the Rathaus, or town hall) in a striking modern building, constructed to evoke the halftimbered architecture of medieval Germany. It is a quiet place to study and has a closed study and research room for students, though computer and photocopier use may be slightly expensive. To join the library, please take your passport and student ID, your semester address, and a €15 annual fee (unfortunately there is no discount for students). A fee of €3 per loan or renewal is charged if the borrower has not registered for a library card. Website: www.stadtbibliothek-reutlingen.de Opening hours Tue - Fri: Sat:

5

10.00 - 19.00 10.00 - 13.00

Computing and network facilities

New students are automatically assigned a login name and an e-mail address on registration and can access the campus net and Internet from most locations on campus.

5.1 General computer access On campus we have 1,600 workstations equipped with PCs. These are managed by the university’s main computer centre Computer and Media Centre which runs a fast GigabitEthernet-Network. Reutlingen University’s Service Desk is the central point of contact for questions, issues or problems concerning any services offered by the Computer and Media Centre. It is located in Building 3 as part of the Learning Cenre. Semester opening hours of the Service Desk: Mon – Fri: Sat:

08.00 – 21.00 10.00 – 16.00

5.2 Computer access within ESB Business School ESB Business School has excellent computing facilities. The school operates a number of newly equipped computer labs. Computer labs with workstations, printers and scanners can be found in the following rooms:

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Building 5 17 20

Rooms 017, 104, 204 110, 107, 109 117 (CAD)

Opening hours: Mo – Fri Sat (building 17) Sat (building 20)

08:00 – 20:30 08:00 – 18:00 10:00 – 18:00

ESB-Business School has established a support program in which student IT tutors help fellow students with in IT matters. The IT tutors are responsible for supporting new students with login, email and Wi-Fi-configuration and room locking. They also offer seminars on all MS-Office programmes. You can contact the IT tutors via the following e-mail address: [email protected]

5.3 Wireless, laptops If you own a laptop, we strongly recommend that you bring it with you. You can easily configure it to access the university network. Several access points for internet access via Wi-Fi are available on campus. You can find more information at the following site: https://www.reutlingen-university.de/en/while-studying/learning-centre/it-and-mediaservices/ All standard Microsoft software programmes are available to Reutlingen University students free of charge. For more information, please contact Rainer Friedrich at [email protected]

5.4 BSCW server / Relax platform The BSCW server and RELAX e-learning platform both serve as a communication interface between professors, support staff and students. Presentations, scripts and all kinds of documents (between student groups) can be exchanged via these platforms. Contact person is Gus Hagelberg ([email protected])

5.5 Labs During your exchange within the Operations Management programmes on offer at ESB Reutlingen, you will probably have the chance to generate plans and designs, as well as carry out simulations in our computer labs. Contact person: Halil Sari ([email protected])

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6

Career service: career center and company fairs

German commerce/industry has an enviable system of internships (industrial placements) of German commerce/industry has an enviable system of internships (industrial placements) of which we take full advantage. All our own students have to complete an internship during their degree programme, either in Germany or abroad. We have excellent connections to a wide selection of German and international companies which regularly take our students as interns. These companies range from the "global players" such as Daimler, BMW, IBM, Siemens, Bosch to the medium and small-sized companies that are still the backbone of the German economy. We are more than happy to assist our exchange students in obtaining an internship, for example in the second half of a year in Germany. However, we do not arrange these internships: exchange students, like our own students, are responsible for applications, documentation, and arranging interviews where necessary. This can be quite a long process, and cannot sensibly be started until students are actually here in Reutlingen. Internships are traditionally of 5 - 6 months duration and are full-time positions. They cannot be undertaken parallel to courses in our School. Part-time, or temporary, employment in companies is available to students to a limited extent, but we would strongly advise exchange students against taking on such commitments except during holiday periods. "On-campus" jobs, as are quite normal in, for example, the US do normally not exist in Germany – largely due to complex labour laws and social security regulations.

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6.1 Career Advice The Career Center offers advice in small groups and individual sessions. Please register as early as possible, indicating your precise concerns, by email to: [email protected]. We will then offer you an appointment. You may also consult Bianca Fecker or Joanne Corlett directly. Please ask for appointments. Moreover, there is an online database available to all students enrolled at Reutlingen University which contains job and internship offers.

6.2 Company Fairs ESB Business School holds two company fairs each year (the International Business Fair in April and the Firmenforum in November), designed to provide opportunities for contacts between students and companies. We are pleased to be able to welcome high-ranking representatives of German and international companies to these events. ESB students are given the opportunity to find out more about the companies through their thirty-minute presentations, and to contact company representatives at their stands. There are also opportunities to take part in selection interviews on campus for traineeships, research projects for theses, and career-start jobs. Please apply in advance for a personal interview. Details about the application process will be available on the fair websites and in brochures.

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E

Life in Reutlingen

1

Reutlingen City

Reutlingen can look back on a long history. Founded in the 5th century as an Alemannic settlement, it is first mentioned in a document from the year 1090. In 1220 it received its town charter and then became a Free Imperial Town; in 1803 it became part of the state of Württemberg. Well-known figures such as the political economist Friedrich List and the clergyman, Gustav Werner, founder of the charitable organisation Bruderhaus, have left their stamp on the town. Nowadays the city is prosperous with over 110,000 inhabitants, and exhibits a character which is both traditional and cosmopolitan. The centre of the town is modern with very good shopping facilities, including an open-air market, an excellent public library, several museums, a theatre, cinemas and a wide variety of cafés, restaurants and bistros. The combination of mediaeval half-timbered buildings and modern urban architecture gives the city’s appearance a very special charm.

Located approximately 30 km south of Stuttgart, Reutlingen is considered the biggest commercial centre in southern Baden-Württemberg, one of the Germany’s most innovative and dynamic economic regions. Famous for its textile, high-tech, mechanical engineering and automobile industry: this region is home to the world or European headquarters of many prominent companies including Hugo Boss, Daimler, Porsche, Bosch, Celesio, Hewlett-Packard and IBM. Historically, the economy and wealth of Reutlingen itself were based on the textile industry. Today, multinational companies, medium-sized companies, high-tech centres, start-ups and modern service providers all successfully conduct their global activities in or around Reutlingen. Reutlingen and its surrounding regions offer a wide range of cultural events and numerous leisure activities, especially for those interested in water sports, biking, trekking, climbing and winter sports. As the “Gateway to the Swabian Jura (or Swabian Alb)”, Reutlingen lies in one of the most scenically attractive areas of Germany. Hills, caves, waterfalls, castles and stately homes, mediaeval villages and thermal spas are attractive destinations for short excursions.

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Location of Reutlingen in Germany

Reutlingen is located on the Echaz River, approx. 30 km South of Stuttgart and is nestled just beneath the majestic Swabian mountains and near the famous Black Forest. T hanks to its location and extensive transportation system, the city of Reutlingen is a perfect starting point to explore Germany and the rest of Europe. Stuttgart and Reutlingen's near neighbour, Tübingen (one of Germany's oldest and loveliest university towns), offer a wide range of art, music, dance, ballet, and opera. If you, however, would like to watch a football match you can go to Stuttgart. Their team, the VfB Stuttgart, is playing in the first division and there is a match almost every weekend during the football season. With the Outlet City in Metzingen, Reutlingen has a great shopping opportunity nearby. Next to Hugo Boss there are various other fashion companies located (e.g. Polo Ralph Lauren, Marco Polo, addidas, Tommy Hilfiger, Armani, Gucci, etc.).

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2

Accommodation

Finding a place to stay can be one of the most challenging tasks when relocating to a foreign country. Our student residences are located near campus and cater for both men and women. There is one hostel for women only located nearer to the town centre. There are also some individual private rooms available on the open market. It is crucial to apply for a room as soon as possible. We advise you to apply to all of the housing associations mentioned here.

2.1 Halls of Residences Close-to-Campus Dorms in Pesta- Organisation lozzistrasse

Reutlingen Housing Association (GWG) Reutlingen Adolf-Reichwein- Housing Haus Association (GWG)

Charges (may change, last update: Feb 2015)

Application Procedure Application Deadlines

Application form in English avail- Winter: June able 30th Summer: http://www.gwg-reutlingen.de/ Dec. 31st Application form in English avail- Winter: June 30th 231 EUR able Summer: http://www.gwg-reutlingen.de/ Dec. 31st 225 EUR Application form in English Winter: June Protestant Theophil-Wurmsingle; http://www.theophil-wurm30th Housing Haus 175 EUR haus.de/wohnen/download.html Summer: Association double Dec. 31st Allocated on Studentenwerk 270 EUR – Online application possible: Pestalozzistraße 323 EUR, www.my-stuwe.de a first come Tübingen41 depends first served Hohenheim on size basis Send a request for the ApplicaWinter: June tion Form to HausverwalPrivate Houdepends Kurt30th tung@Studentenheimsing Associati- on room Schumacher-Str. reutlingen.de. It will be emailed to Summer: on size you and you can send the filled Dec. 31st application form via email Theodor-LittHaus

231 EUR

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Downtown Dorms Reutlingen Frauenwohnheim Housing (Women's Dorm) Association (GWG)

Application form in English avail- Winter: June able 30th 150 EUR Summer: http://www.gwg-reutlingen.de/ Dec. 31st Send a request for the Application Form to inWinter: June Studentenheim Private [email protected]. It will 30th am Heilbrunnen sing Associati- depends on be emailed to you and you can room size Summer: on send the filled application form Dec. 31st via email

Administratively and financially the student residences or dorms (Studentenwohnheime) adjoining the campus are not part of the university, but are owned and administered by the GWG Housing Association and the Tübingen Studentenwerk. We are, therefore, not able to reserve a room for you, nor can we exert direct pressure on the associations to allocate a room to you. Nonetheless, in the allocation of rooms, exchange students are normally granted a certain preferential treatment. You have to apply for a room in the normal way (please find appropriate application forms and information on our website). The application forms will need to be submitted by the second week of December if you are coming to Reutlingen in the summer semester or by the second week of June if you are coming in the winter semester. If you are allocated a room, written notification will be sent by the end of July/beginning of August, or end of January to your home address. If you are going to be away from home at that time, you should inform the GWG / Studentenwerk of the address to which the notification should be sent. You must return the acceptance form immediately or else the room will be allocated to someone else. It is likely that the tenancy contract will be sent at the same time usually two copies. Both copies should be signed and returned at once. One copy of the contract will be returned to you, which you need to bring with you and show to the caretaker (Hausmeister) of your residence in order to get your key. Please note in terms of arrival that the caretaker is not on duty on weekends. You will have to pay for a whole half-year beginning Sept. 1 or March 1. Often, exchange students are offered A refundable deposit (Kaution) of 2 months’ rent plus a key deposit is very common in Germany and is payable on arrival.

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The residences are self-catering, so you will need to bring your own bed-linen (including pillows and blankets), but other equipment (such as cutlery, cups, saucepans) is probably best bought locally. What will be expected of you? Much of the day-to-day running of the residences, as well as the maintenance of good order and discipline, and certain cleaning duties, are the responsibility of the residents in the residences: this "self-administration" is carried out through residence student committees and representatives. All residents are obliged to participate and cooperate in the smooth and consensual running of the residences. As a resident of a student dorm you will be expected to abide by the house rules, and to respect other residents' privacy, including religion, language and cultural differences. A deposit of two months' rent is required for all accommodation options. The deposit will be refunded at the end of your stay, after you have officially cleared your room with the caretaker. All rental contracts are binding for one semester (March 1st - August 31st; September 1st - February 28th). If you wish to leave your room before your rental contract expires, you must either pay the rent for the remaining period or find somebody to take over your room and the remaining rent (which is difficult and rather unlikely). You will have to sign a contract which is legally binding, i.e. you remain responsible for paying the rent for the whole of the stipulated period. You cannot just give up the tenancy on your room when it suits you. If you are not offered residence accommodation, we will do our best to assist you in finding a private room/shared flat when you arrive. However, as everywhere else in Germany, this is not easy: you should be prepared to rough it for several days while the search is on. A private room will cost upwards of €250 per month and may well involve some travel to and from the university. In any case, do not panic if your accommodation is not settled before you leave home: just come, we have never yet failed to find accommodation for our exchange students!

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2.2 Private housing market The university’s student office (Studierendenbüro) offers assistance if you are interested in renting a private room. You can obtain more information by writing an email to the following address: [email protected] Accomodation Link on the Reutlingen University website: http://www.reutlingen-university.de/vor-dem-studium/deine-wohnung/zimmersuche.html You can also publish an advertisement with your search for private accommodation in one of the following local newspapers: Reutlinger General-Anzeiger, Burgstrasse 1-7 , 72764 Reutlingen Reutlinger Nachrichten, Burgplatz 1, 72764 Reutlingen Wochenblatt (Anzeigenblatt), Marktplatz 16, 72764 Reutlingen Further links that might help you regarding your search for accommodation in Reutlingen are: www.stubue.de www.reutlingen.de www.wohnzentrale.de www.zimmer-boerse.de www.wg-gesucht.de www.wg-welt.de www.studentenwohnungsmarkt.de www.studenten-wg.de

2.3 Temporary accommodation In Reutlingen: • Hotels und Guest houses (Pensionen): You can find a lot of information on the City of Reutlingen: www.reutlingen.de • City appartments (4 people per appartment): Die günstige Hotelalternative / CityRooms GbR: www.stadt-zimmer.de In Tübingen: • Youth Hostel (Jugendherberge): Gartenstraße 22/2, Tübingen 72074. Tel.: 07071/23002, http://www.jugendherberge.de/en/youthhostels/tuebingen113/Portrait

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3

Cost of living

Your cost of living will depend on your personal lifestyle. Living abroad in an unfamiliar environment always stretches one’s budget. However, the overall cost of living in Germany is fairly affordable for students. Accommodation costs are one of the major expenses. Students generally need about €600-800 per month to cover accommodation, food, transport, leisure and other personal costs. The subsidised meals in the refectory / cafeteria (Mensa) are a very good value, though you may wish to bring your own beverages, which are sometimes cheaper if bought at a grocery store. Day-to-day groceries are cheap if you use the supermarkets, clothes range from cheap to breathtakingly expensive, and books are quite expensive. Currency fluctuations can play havoc with your financial planning. If you are on a student grant or a scholarship, make sure that the awarding body is aware of the full length of your studies in Reutlingen.

3.1 Financial assistance Financial aid is generally not available through Reutlingen University. All financial matters have to be organised by students themselves. If you are looking for financial aid in the form of grants or scholarships, you should contact the International Office of your home university. Some help may be available from the DAAD – German Academic Exchange Service – but this is not automatic. For further information go to the DAAD’s website: www.daad.de > English > information for foreigners > support > scholarship database. Furthermore in Germany students sometimes are granted a discount (e.g. in cinemas, bars, etc.). In addition holding a student’s ID allows you to use public transportation feeless on weekends and after 7 pm on workdays (Naldo region). To use public transportation on workdays before 7pm without paying a fee you can purchase a semester ticket for about 70€.

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4

Contact

Hochschule Reutlingen / Reutlingen University ESB Business School Alteburgstraße 150 72762 Reutlingen

Head of International Relations: Professor Hazel Grünewald Tel.: +49(0)7121 271 –3074 E-Mail: [email protected]

Academic Coordinators: Coordinator for incoming exchange students from Western, Southern, Eastern and Central Europe; Central and Southern America: Ms. Laura Giordano Tel.: +49 (0)7121 271 –3066 E-Mail: [email protected] Coordinator for incoming exchange students from Indonesia and Malaysia: Ms. Petra Greiner Tel.: +49 (0)7121 271 –3032 E-Mail: [email protected] Coordinator for incoming exchange students from Northern America, Africa: Mr. Oliver Trefzer Tel.: +49 (0)7121 271 –3024 E-Mail: [email protected] Coordinator for incoming exchange students from Asia, Oceania, Finland and Russia: Ms. Heike Trost Tel.: +49 (0)7121 271 –3026 E-Mail: [email protected]

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