Overview This master’s program addresses the challenges created by increasing distributed generation and the variable nature of renewable energy sources. It combines technical, economic and ecological perspectives on distributed energy systems with essential digital skills. Teaching covers simulation and optimisation of energy systems and places strong emphasis on modern computer and communication technologies; artificial intelligence is also integrated to round out the interdisciplinary curriculum.
The course aims to give students a thorough understanding of individual producer and consumer technologies as well as the coordinated, optimised operation of interconnected energy networks. Graduates are prepared for roles across the energy value chain and related sectors, and the programme explicitly offers international perspectives. Elective German language classes are available to support international students. A video with further information about the programme is also provided by the university.
Requirements & key facts
Curriculum overview
The programme builds a technical foundation in the first semester, beginning with the Energy Systems / Energy Economy module, which introduces the main components and stakeholders in modern power systems. Early coursework focuses on modelling and simulating decentralised energy systems and on digitally networked systems: IoT Technologies and Data Interfaces covers sensor integration and internet-enabled data flows, while LabVIEW Programming and Artificial Intelligence Basics teach graphical programming and machine‑assisted problem solving. Students can also take an elective each semester to explore complementary topics (for example, practical drone training offered by an in-house “drone academy”).
Deeper system-level and application topics occupy the second semester. Virtual Power Plant examines aggregation of decentralised producers and sector coupling, including Power-to-X solutions for storing or converting surplus energy. AI Applications in Energy Systems / Blockchain looks at secure machine-to-machine communication and autonomous decision-making in energy networks. Energy Entrepreneurship brings an applied business perspective through guest speakers and startup case studies. Optimisation / Operations Research ties earlier simulation and analytical methods into techniques for optimally operating complex systems, and the Project Course – Smart Energy System gives hands‑on experience in planning, implementing and presenting a real project.
Master’s thesis and outcomes
The third semester is devoted to an independent Master’s thesis, typically planned and carried out in cooperation with industry partners, and is supported by the Scientific Work Master’s Seminar that fosters academic presentation skills and rigorous research methodology. Across the programme you will develop practical skills in system simulation, IoT integration, graphical programming (LabVIEW), applied AI, secure distributed communication (blockchain concepts), optimisation methods and entrepreneurial thinking — all oriented toward designing and operating smart, reliable energy systems. The full programme runs over three semesters and, on successful completion, awards the internationally recognised Master of Engineering (MEng) degree.
Program requirements (summary)
This master’s programme requires a completed university degree in a closely related subject area, awarded domestically or abroad, and meeting the programme’s minimum grade and credit requirements. Admissions typically expect a degree with the equivalent of 210 ECTS credits overall, though a smaller degree of at least 180 ECTS may also be considered. The final overall examination grade must be at least 2.3 (on the German grading scale, where applicable); if your grading system differs, the admissions office will assess equivalence as part of the application.
Suitable undergraduate backgrounds are those grounded in the fundamentals of engineering, physics or computing—courses that provide a solid technical foundation for work in energy systems. You will also need to submit a short letter of motivation (200–500 words) in either English or German outlining your reasons for applying and how your background fits the programme.
Admission requirements (summary)
Winter Semester (International)
31 May 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
31 May 2026
Graduates are prepared for technical and managerial roles in the energy sector, including positions with energy suppliers, energy marketing firms, building technology providers, the automotive industry and energy‑intensive industries. The programme’s emphasis on simulation, optimisation, AI, IoT and secure communication equips graduates to design, operate and optimise decentralised and sector‑coupled energy systems (e.g. virtual power plants, Power‑to‑X).
The entrepreneurial and project‑based elements (Energy Entrepreneurship, project course and company‑linked Master's thesis) also support careers in start‑ups or technology development roles, while the close applied orientation makes graduates attractive for R&D, systems integration and consulting roles in both established companies and new ventures.
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