The Academic Senate of the University of Osnabrück has nineteen voting members. Ten members of the Senate are faculty members, and there are three members each from the following: University employees, the MTV group, and the student body. Members are elected directly by each group. Most serve for a period of two years, starting on April 1st; each student body member serves for just one year. The members of the Presidential Board the department heads, and representatives of the Women’s Office are advisory members of the Academic Senate.

Working with the Presidential Board the Academic Senate passes resolutions governing the University, its development, and equal opportunities for women. It makes recommendations in all significant areas, especially concerning the introduction, alteration, or dissolution of schools or departments, as well as programs of study. The Senate is obligated to provide the Presidential Board with all requested information.
In order to carry out its tasks, the Senate may form committees and commissions. Committees are advisory boards whose members must be Senators. Commissions are advisory boards whose members are not necessarily Senators. All groups within the University hierarchy must be represented on commissions and committees.