After studying sociology, psychology and philosophy at RWTH Aachen University and the University of Cologne, she was awarded a PhD in sociology by the University of Cologne in 2008. 

From 2009 to 2010, Alexandra Nonnenmacher held a temporary professorship in social science research methods; in 2012, she was appointed to a professorship in social and educational science research methods at the University of Siegen. From 2019 to 2024, she served as Vice-Chancellor for Student Affairs and Teaching, a member of the university’s executive board in Siegen; acting on behalf of the Chancellor, she was also responsible for diversity policies. In January 2025, she took up her post as President of Worms University of Applied Sciences.

Alexandra Nonnenmacher has been a member of the Advisory Committee for the Award of the Title of Professor in the State of North Rhine-Westphalia since 2021 and, since 2025, Deputy Chair of the Board of the Accreditation, Certification and Quality Assurance Institute ACQUIN e.V.