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Berlin, Germany

CODE University of Applied Sciences

Don't just study digital. Build it.

No lectures
Project-only
Competency-based
No grades
Image of CODE University of Applied Sciences
"The best way to learn to build products is to build products."

About CODE University of Applied Sciences

CODE University of Applied Sciences was founded in Berlin in 2017 with a radical proposition: no lectures, no exams, no traditional grades. Students in Software Engineering, Interaction Design, or Product Management advance entirely through real projects. They pull theory from self-paced learning modules when needed to complete their projects. Faculty serve as mentors and coaches, not lecturers. Admissions completely ignores school grades — it evaluates motivation, creativity and problem-solving through challenges and assessment days. The university is fully accredited by the German Science and Humanities Council.

Disruptive approach and innovative methodology

Zero lectures

No classes, no lectures, no scheduled teaching. Students learn by building real projects.

Competency-based progression

Students advance by demonstrating competencies through project portfolio reviews, not by passing exams.

Grades don't matter for admission

Admission ignores school grades entirely — evaluates creativity, motivation and problem-solving ability.

Self-paced theory modules

Students pull theoretical content when their project demands it — just-in-time learning.

Impact and recognition

  • Fully accredited by German Science and Humanities Council

  • Admissions ignores school grades entirely

  • Located in Berlin's startup ecosystem

  • 100% project-based — no exams ever