Our research doesn't just think along – it takes action.
At FERNFH Distance-Learning University of Applied Sciences, it’s not about ivory towers but about insights that make a difference in the world. We conduct research where education, work and society are changing and where new answers are needed. Our projects combine academic depth with social relevance. We work across disciplines, with partners from practice and academia – both nationally and internationally.
Because we believe research is good when it has an impact. In everyday life. In organisations. In people’s lives.
Research focus areas at FERNFH
Our research is not an end in itself. It grows out of reality – and feeds back into it.
Our focus areas bring together what is pressing today and what will be needed tomorrow.
Business & the world of work
Markets are changing and companies need to stay flexible. We research how organisations can position themselves for the future technologically, strategically and culturally.
Education
Learning is becoming more flexible and more digital. Our research shows how education can offer more freedom, quality and a better balance with other commitments.
Health and social care
Health is more than the absence of illness and social systems are more than administration. We research how digital approaches can strengthen mental health and improve prevention.
Sustainability
Sustainability is a cross-cutting theme. We research how ecological, social and economic action can be meaningfully combined.
Artificial intelligence
AI is both a tool and a challenge. We don’t put it at the centre; we put it at the service of people. Our research explores areas of application, examines ethical questions and develops scenarios in which AI creates added value for society.
Digital transformation
Digitalisation is more than technology – it changes how we live, learn and work. Our research explores how this change can be actively shaped.
Our competence teams stand for in-depth research – focused, interdisciplinary and practice-oriented.
Current research projects
Research partnerships
Achieving more together – research needs strong partners. We cooperate with institutions, companies and organisations that, like us, are looking for solutions for a better future.
Our research is practice-oriented and only works through exchange with partners from business, research and education. Do you have an idea for a research project or are you interested in working on one together? Feel free to contact the head of research and development.
