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Dr. Walter Leibrecht established the first campus in Kleiningersheim (Germany), allowing international students to practice American studies immersed in European culture.
For over half a century, Schiller International University has been a beacon of excellence in global education. We are a top university that seamlessly blends the American learning model with a truly international experience.
Founded in 1964 by Dr. Walter Leibrecht, Schiller started as a study-abroad program in West Germany, offering American students the unique chance to pursue their education in Europe. Today, we stand as a premier university taught in English, with vibrant campuses in Tampa, Paris, Madrid, and Heidelberg, each embodying the spirit of global connectivity and academic rigor.
Our journey from a single study-abroad program to a globally recognized institution underscores our commitment to innovative education and cultural exchange. Schiller's distinctive American learning model in Europe equips students with the tools to excel in a diverse, interconnected world.
We are not just preparing students for careers; we are molding future leaders ready to tackle tomorrow's challenges. Join us and experience firsthand how Schiller International University has revolutionized higher education through immersive, real-world learning and a dedication to academic excellence.
Take a walk down memory lane with us, and discover the origin of the top American model university in Europe.
The Poet Behind Our Name: Friedrich Schiller
Schiller International University proudly bears the name of Johann Christoph Friedrich von Schiller (1759-1805), a distinguished German poet, philosopher, historian, and playwright. Schiller's unwavering commitment to freedom, beauty, and human potential is deeply embedded in our educational philosophy. His legacy continues to inspire our vision and mission, influencing our academic model profoundly.
For six decades, we have upheld the ideals of our namesake. Schiller's exploration of freedom, human dignity, and the pursuit of truth remains at the heart of our institution. We strive to create a learning environment that not only imparts knowledge but also encourages the development of character and noble ideals.
Friedrich Schiller
Johann Christoph Friedrich von Schiller (1759–1805), commonly known as Schiller, was a German poet, playwright, and philosopher. He is best known for his impactful contributions to literature and the arts. Schiller's works often explored themes of freedom, justice, and the human spirit, leaving a lasting influence on German literature. The University, named in honor of him, exemplifies the highest standards of ethics and the ideal of the truly educated, multilingual citizen of the world, inspired by his work.
Schiller's name symbolizes the university's commitment to fostering a rich, global educational experience that embraces cultural diversity and intellectual exploration.
Our founder: Dr. Walter Leibrecht
Dr. Walter W. Leibrecht (1927-2007) was an esteemed educator and theologian whose experiences during World War II profoundly shaped his worldview. Drafted into the military at 16, he later pursued theology at the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, the University of Heidelberg, and the University of Chicago, where he earned his doctorate in 1953.
His academic career included positions at Columbia University, Harvard Divinity School, and the University of Chicago. Dr. Leibrecht recognized the need for an educational environment that prepared students for leadership roles in a global context.
In 1963, he founded Schiller College at the medieval castle of Ingersheim near Stuttgart, Germany, aiming to combine rigorous American academic standards with rich cultural experiences. The following year, he established Schiller International University, pioneering international education.
His vision was to foster a truly international educational community, offering students the opportunity to study abroad and immerse themselves in diverse cultures. This commitment to global education, long before globalization became a common term, remains a cornerstone of Schiller International University's identity.
Our Vision
Become the international reference university by providing a global, thoughtful, and personalized new way of education that provides students with the Global Mindset to face the complex, diverse and fast changing global society in which we live.
The Power of a Global Mindset with the Approach of a New Generation
Some people like to think about possibilities. We are here to develop thinkers into world savvy achievers.
Since our founding in 1964, we have focused on the value of building a global mindset. Through the powerful experience of learning by living, our students are transformed from observers to active global professionals.
Our Milestones
1964 Foundation of the University
We opened the Madrid and Paris international campuses, allowing students to learn navigating across the three locations, and explore different international cultures. This unique opportunity provided for an increased global experience for our first brave students and is still available today.
Step by step, we continued perfecting our formula. We moved our international campus in Germany to Heidelberg, allowing our students to be in direct contact with one of the largest tech and research hubs in Europe.
We received US accreditation as a private University, validating our educational excellence both in the US and abroad.
We opened our International Campus in Tampa, Florida, increasing the global mindset of our students and providing additional experiences across further landscapes.
2014 Dual Accreditation (University of Roehampton)
We established an agreement with the University of Roehampton (London, UK), providing students with the possibility of adding a European degree.
2016 International Recognitions
In 2016, we became the first American university to receive German programmatic accreditation through Evalag, once again confirming that we never stop pursuing validation of our high quality standards.
Schiller is acquired by a group of private international investors with a global mindset that are committed to long-term quality and innovation in Higher Education.
2021 Tech, Digital, and Sustainability Focus
We incorporate new programs in potential market areas with focuses in digital, technology, and sustainability. We partner with industry giants including IBM and the United Nations (UNITAR).
2022 Schiller International University
The University begins a new era of Global transformative education to develop world smart citizens. Dare to transform.
2023 ACCSC Accreditation* obtained
Our USA accrediation status is further established as the University becomes Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
Our Purpose
We provide students with The Real Global Learning Experience.
A learning-by-living education that allows people to acquire the knowledge, skills, experience, and Global Mindset to become a Smart Global Professional.
Our Values
Global Mindset
Embraces Diversity
Change Leader
Socially Responsible
Upright Behavior
Four International Campuses
We are a unique university that allows you to obtain Accredited* dual degrees (US and European) by living in up to four different countries.
It is difficult not to see the beauty in this city. Located on Florida’s spectacular west coast, Tampa is considered one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the US. Its area is a recognized American hub for entrepreneurship, full of young professionals. Thanks to its semi-tropical weather, exceptional beaches, and cultural offerings, Tampa has a thriving tourism industry and a wide range of career opportunities in multiple fields.
- The 4th largest economy in the United States
- A tourist destination with close to 100M visitors
- Networking and US placement opportunities
Madrid, the capital of Spain and one of the most important hubs for international business and commerce in Europe. A unique mixture of culture, art, history, nature, and a social life that attracts investment and talent from all over the world. Its diversity and inclusion, 300 sunny days per year, and countless parks make Madrid a vibrant metropolis. A good place to build memories through life changing experiences.
- The perfect union of international business, culture, leisure, and diversity.
- The opportunity to become proficient in the world's second most-spoken language.
- A direct gateway to Latin American trade.
Paris, the capital of France and the sixth-largest world economy, is also waiting for you to come and develop your skills. Paris means an outstanding opportunity for career development, where the entertainment scene, architecture, and art are invaluable. Make your experiences there worthy of the walls of the Louvre.
- International Hub for business, entrepreneurship, and Int. Relations
- City of opportunities, influence, and attractiveness
- Rich cultural life, unique lifestyle, and incomparable beauty.
You may not have thought about it, but Heildelberg is a high-tech international hub, surrounded by forested mountains and the Rhine Plain. Considered as the first port of call for research, it is unsurprising that 56 Nobel Prizes have had ties to Heidelberg. Maybe it’s time to add another one.
- International hub for high-tech industries and scientific research
- Superb environment with students from all around the world
- The opportunity to step into the past and shape the future.
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