FAQ about the Improvement and Complaints Office
What is the central improvement and complaints system?
The Improvement and Complaints Office is a central point of contact at the university for students who would like to make a suggestion for improvement, complain, or simply give feedback about their studies. The Complaints Office works independently, neutrally, solution-oriented and confidentially.
Who can contact the central improvement and complaints department?
All HWG students are welcome to submit their concerns to the Improvement and Complaints Office.
We would like to give you a hint: Experience has shown us time and again that problems can usually and most quickly be solved through direct contact between the people concerned. We therefore ask you to contact the person responsible with your concern as a first step if possible. This could be, for example, a member of staff in the Department, an education staff member, a colleague from the Student Service Center or other administrative staff. You can find the responsible persons under responsibilities. Contact us directly if the issue is very sensitive or if you do not have the confidence to approach the person concerned.
What can the improvement and complaint system do for me?
Of course, this depends very much on your concern. First and foremost, we listen to you and take on board your concerns. We speak - with your consent - with the parties involved and try to facilitate a helpful solution for you through neutral mediation.
What does the central improvement and complaints department do after I have contacted it?
If you have sent us your concern via the contact form, the Improvement and Complaints Office will usually make initial contact with you within one week. The facts of the case will be completed, if necessary, and any open questions will be clarified. A compilation of the complete state of affairs, without which a reasonable assessment and possible solutions cannot be realized, may require research work or consultation with responsible offices and persons. This is followed by an initial or final assessment, recommendation or consultation.
How confidential are my suggestions for improvement or complaints and do I have any disadvantages if I file a complaint?
We treat all information confidentially and anonymously. This means that we will not share your name or any other personal information or conversation content related to your personal information. If it is nevertheless necessary to discuss personal data with others in order to process your case, we will not do so without your express consent. We will always contact you in this case.
Can I complain anonymously?
No. As a confidentiality office, we guarantee confidentiality, so you do not need to be anonymous when dealing with the complaints department.
As a rule, we will not process anonymous messages. We ask for your understanding.
Are teachers and employees of HWG LU also allowed to contact the Improvement and Complaints Office?
The Improvement and Complaints Office is primarily a point of contact for students. Staff and education staff can contact their supervisor, the staff council or the university management, for example.
I have a problem with my professor, but I don't dare to approach him/her. Who can I turn to?
If you do not feel comfortable approaching education staff directly, for example because you fear disadvantages for yourself, you can always approach the assistants of your degree program. If you also have reservations at this level, you are welcome to contact the central improvement and complaints department via the e-mail contact form or by telephone.
Can my (general or individual) suggestions and hints make any difference at all?
By all means!
Only through your comments do we have the opportunity to develop measures oriented to your needs for improving the study conditions. By describing your concerns, you can actively contribute to improving the quality of your own as well as general study conditions.
Do I also get advice on legal issues?
No, unfortunately we cannot offer legal advice. However, students of the HWG can contact Pro Bono Mannheim (legal advice by students of law at the University of Mannheim). Their advice is free of charge and relates to matters of civil and alien law. Further information is available on the homepage of the non-profit association https://www.probono-mannheim.de/.and from the AStA of the HWG: https://www.asta-lu.de/
Are there specific office hours for face-to-face meetings?
We do not have fixed office hours. You can call us during regular office hours and use the contact form at any time.