Our mission
The internal audit of the University of Wuppertal supports the university in continuously reviewing its processes, systems and controls, identifying weaknesses and implementing best-practice solutions. Our aim is to ensure transparency, cost-effectiveness and compliance of legal and technical requirements – in the interests of efficient, high-quality teaching and research.
Part of our mission is to work with all organisational units within the university in a spirit of trust and with a focus on finding solutions. Maintaining confidentiality and independence is our top priority in this regard.
A bit of history
The university has always been audited to ensure the quality and safety of its services. The internal audit service is the most recent addition to this portfolio.
Its task is not only to carry out audits, but also to build up the university’s internal audit from scratch. Among other things, this involves developing the audit processes together with the first audit clients, so that they comply with professional standards whilst being as convenient as possible for the audit clients.
| Year | Milestones |
| The North Rhine-Westphalia General Accounting Office has always carried out audits at the state’s universities – including at BUW. | |
| Statutory audits complement the other checks. | |
| > 10 years | External audit firms regularly audit the university. |
| 2018 | The General Accounting Office’s audit reports recommend establishing an internal audit service to make audits more effective. |
| 2024 | The Rectorate decides to set up its own internal audit department; the University Council takes note of the decision. |
| 2025 | Launch of the internal audit department at BUW following human resources and organisational preparations. |
Organisation
Management: Head of Internal Audit (who is also internal auditor) – assigned to the Chancellor’s Office in terms of professional responsibilities, but reporting to Department 6 (Student Affairs, Teaching & Quality Management) for disciplinary matters.
Staff: An audit and administrative assistant supports the management in the preparation, conduct and follow-up of audits.
Integration: The Internal Audit Department works closely with all academic departments, the University Administration and external auditors.
The internal audit team regularly takes part in training courses and certification programmes in line with international standards.
With two staff members in the internal audit department, staffing levels are in line with the recommendations of the North Rhine-Westphalia General Accounting Office; naturally, any further increase in staff would also expand our audit portfolio.
Methods & Standards
In the planning and execution of its audits, the Internal Audit Department follows recognised best practices as well as international standards and professional guidelines.
Risk-based audit plan – We prioritise auditing the areas that pose the greatest risk to the university.
Transparent audit processes – We develop audit procedures in collaboration with the relevant departments to minimise disruption and the associated workload.
International standards – Our audits are based on the Global Internal Audit Standards (GIAS) of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) and ISO 19011 (Guidelines for Auditing).
Continuous improvement – Findings are translated into clear action plans and their effectiveness is regularly monitored.
