The Graduate Centre for Development Studies is located in the Ruhr-Area the former industrial heart of Germany. People from over 140 different nations are living in the Ruhr-Metropolis. The former coal-mining and heavy industry center has developed to a multifaceted cultural melting pot. Over 7.3 million people are living in the largest urban agglomeration in Germany. The Ruhr-Metropolis has the highest density of theaters and cultural events in Europe. The industrial heritage of the Ruhr-Metropolis is impressing and well worth seeing. The European Union recently awarded the title of the European Capital of Culture to the Ruhr-Metropolis(Essen).

In terms of transportation Bochum and Dusiburg are located in the middle of Europe. The third biggest airport in Germany (Airport Düsseldorf) is a short hop from Bochum and Duisburg. The Ruhr-Metropolis is a great base for exploring other parts of Germany or the Benelux countries. Cheap airfares will allow you to reach destinations like London or Madrid within two or three hours.

The Ruhr-Metropolis is aslo a land of plenty for football interested students. The local football teams VFL Bochum and MSV Duisburg play in the second division. Six teams from the Ruhr-Metropolis play in the first or second German division. The champion of the first division Borussia Dortmund is located in the Ruhr-Metropolis. Enjoy the game!

Impressions of the Ruhr-Metropolis