The centre was the brainchild of Heinz Nixdorf (1925-1986), the prominent Paderborn industrialist, and was founded in 1972. In the following years it expanded steadily through the affiliation with new establishments such as the Economics Institute, the Vocational College and the Business School (1992). From 1981 the Paderborn branch expanded further through its union with the centres in Bergisch Gladbach (1981), Hanover (1984), Dresden (1990) and Görlitz (1991).

The centre in Paderborn has succeeded in continually enhancing its status as an innovative and respected educational establishment. To date, some 11,000 graduates have made a successful start to their careers, thanks to the high quality of teaching received during their course of study.

After an extensive process of modernisation carried out in 1996, the Paderborn branch is now equipped with approximately 200 networked work stations in computer suites and laboratories which enable the students to put their theoretical education to use through practical application. The halls of residence, comprising 225 fully furnished apartments, are located close to the teaching centre.

A special feature of the Paderborn branch is its link with the Vocational School for Careers in Telecommunications. An active partnership with the various firms offering work placements ensures that the I.T. course content is regularly revised in order to bring it in line with the current demands of the economy.