This English-taught Master’s programme gives you a solid foundation in both the science and engineering of polymers, combining theory with substantial hands-on laboratory training. The curriculum is designed to address sustainability and future technological challenges in polymer engineering, preparing graduates for technical roles in industry as well as further academic research. You will develop practical skills in processing, testing and simulation alongside an understanding of polymer materials, design and rheology.
A research-oriented working group is integrated into the programme, offering exposure to current research questions and a supportive environment for students who want to pursue a doctoral degree or a research career. At the same time, the course structure allows you to tailor your studies through electives, so you can focus on areas such as materials development, mould and product design, or computer-aided engineering.
Core modules covered in the programme include:
Key facts and application notes:
This Master’s programme runs over three semesters: the first two are dedicated to taught content delivered through lectures and hands-on laboratory courses, while the final semester is reserved for an independent Master’s thesis. The compact structure concentrates formal teaching into a single academic year followed by a focused research project that demonstrates your ability to apply taught methods to an open problem.
Practical training is explicitly supported and can be scheduled as part of a sabbatical semester. That allows you to gain extended laboratory experience, industry exposure, or project work outside the standard teaching blocks while still progressing toward your degree. Overall, the curriculum balances theoretical foundations with experimental practice and culminates in an original piece of scientific work.
This master’s programme expects applicants to hold a relevant bachelor’s degree in engineering, the natural sciences, or a closely related discipline. Degrees considered suitable include engineering specialisations (Manufacturing, Materials, Mechanical, Plastics, Processing, Production), Materials Science, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering. Applicants with these backgrounds will have the academic foundation needed for advanced study in polymer technology.
Candidates must meet the German entrance-grade standard: a final Bachelor’s grade of 2.5 or better (German grading scale). If your undergraduate degree was completed outside Germany, you should check how your final grade converts to the German system and provide the necessary documentation when applying—contact the admissions office if you are unsure about equivalence procedures.
Prior coursework in polymer chemistry or materials science is not required for admission. Applicants from a variety of related fields are therefore encouraged to apply; relevant preparatory knowledge may be helpful but is not a prerequisite.
Winter Semester (International)
15 March 2026
Summer Semester (International)
15 September 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 March 2026
Summer Semester (EU/EEA)
15 September 2026
Graduates are prepared for technical and research roles in the polymer, plastics and materials industries, including positions in product and mould design, processing engineering, quality and materials testing, and computer-aided simulation. The programme's research orientation and laboratory experience also provide a solid foundation for continuing into PhD programs or R&D careers in industry and academic institutions.
Typical employers include polymer manufacturers, automotive and medical-device companies, plastics tooling and moulding firms, testing laboratories, and engineering consultancies focused on materials and processing technologies.
SRH University — Heidelberg
FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg — Erlangen
Technical University of Darmstadt — Darmstadt
Technische Universität Berlin — Berlin