About Us
ABOUT
WHO WE ARE?
Welcome to the Sustainable Urban Development (SUD) Master Study Program at the Vietnamese-German University (VGU). Our program, "SUD - Sustaining our Future," is a joint-degree initiative offered in collaboration with the Technical University of Darmstadt (TU Darmstadt). This full-time, 2-year (4-semester) program is designed to equip future leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle the challenges of urbanization and sustainability.
Our interdisciplinary curriculum integrates urban planning, environmental science, engineering, and social sciences, providing a comprehensive education that meets international standards. Delivered entirely in English by experienced lecturers from Vietnam and Germany, the program offers a unique international education environment. Graduates receive a joint-degree Master's Degree from VGU and TU Darmstadt, recognized globally for its quality and rigor.
The SUD program emphasizes practical learning through fieldwork, internships, and real-world projects. Students benefit from strong connections with domestic and international research organizations and industries in urban development. Additionally, attractive tuition fees and various scholarships from VGU and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) make this program accessible to a diverse range of students.
Join us in our mission to educate and empower future leaders in sustainable urban development, and become part of a community dedicated to creating resilient, inclusive, and sustainable cities for the future.
Accreditation
The study program has fulfilled the requirements for accreditation as part of the system accreditation at the Technical University of Darmstadt by the Swiss Agency for Accreditation and Quality Assurance (AAQ). The system accreditation certificate is valid until 30/09/2027.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Sustainable Urban Development program at VGU are equipped with a unique skill set that positions them for a variety of exciting and impactful career paths. The program’s focus on sustainability, urban planning, and environmental science prepares graduates to address the pressing challenges facing cities today.
- National and International Planning Offices and Consulting Firms
- Public Authorities in Cities, Megacities, and Metropolitan Regions
- National and International Project Developers
- International Development Banks, Aid Organizations & NGOs on Urban Development
- Universities and Research Institutions
Admission requirements
To be eligible for the Sustainable Urban Development (SUD) Master’s program at the Vietnamese-German University (VGU), applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree: A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as architecture, civil engineering, geography, urban and regional planning, sociology, environmental engineering, or a comparable course of study.
- GPA: A minimum GPA of 65% at the bachelor’s level.
- English proficiency:
- IELTS academic score of 5.0
- TOEFL iBT score of 42
- English proficiency:
Or equivalent English proficiency demonstrated through other means (e.g., graduation from a program taught in English)
Additionally, applicants will need to:
- Submit a complete application online through the VGU application portal.
- Participate in a VGU entrance examination, which includes a technical interview and an English speaking test.
Please note that these are general requirements, and specific details might change from year to year.
About Vietnamese-German University
The Vietnamese-German University (VGU) is a premier institution dedicated to providing high-quality education and fostering international collaboration. Established in 2008 through a partnership between the Vietnamese government and the German state of Hesse, VGU aims to bring German excellence in higher education and research to Vietnam.
VGU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to meet the highest international standards. Our curriculum is developed in collaboration with leading German universities, ensuring that our students receive a world-class education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills.
Key Features of VGU
- International Collaboration: VGU maintains strong partnerships with German universities and research institutions, facilitating student and faculty exchanges, joint research projects, and a global perspective on education.
- Experienced Faculty: Our faculty includes experts from Vietnam and Germany who bring diverse academic backgrounds and extensive industry experience to the classroom.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: VGU is equipped with modern facilities and cutting-edge technology, providing an ideal environment for learning and research.
- Comprehensive Support: We offer a range of student services, including academic advising, career counseling, and extracurricular activities, to support our students’ academic and personal growth.
Partner University - Technical University of Darmstadt (TU Darmstadt)
The Technical University of Darmstadt (TU Darmstadt) is one of Germany’s leading universities, renowned for its pioneering achievements and excellence in research and teaching. Established in 1877, TU Darmstadt has a rich history of addressing the urgent issues of the future with innovative solutions and outstanding academic programs.
Key Features of TU Darmstadt
- Research Excellence: TU Darmstadt is at the forefront of technological advancement, focusing on highly relevant problem areas that impact society. The university’s research output is globally recognized, and it frequently ranks among the top universities for engineering and technology.
- Interdisciplinary Approach: TU Darmstadt integrates technology at the heart of its disciplines, fostering close cooperation between natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, and engineering. This interdisciplinary approach enables comprehensive solutions to complex problems.
- Strong Industry Connections: The university maintains a variety of partnerships with companies and research institutions, driving economic and technological development in the Frankfurt-Rhein-Neckar metropolitan area. These connections provide students with valuable opportunities for internships, collaborative projects, and career advancement.
- Global Recognition: TU Darmstadt’s commitment to excellence has earned it multiple grants within the Excellence Initiative and a place among the world’s top 100 universities for engineering and technology according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings and QS World University Rankings.
- Innovative Education: TU Darmstadt offers a broad range of programs designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their fields. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world applications, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their professional careers.
- Vibrant Academic Community: With a diverse and dynamic student body, TU Darmstadt provides a stimulating environment for learning and personal growth. The university encourages a culture of innovation, critical thinking, and collaboration.