This application-focused Master's programme builds on active research and is delivered by specialists across relevant fields. It provides a structured, technically rigorous foundation in core structural engineering topics while integrating research findings and real-world practice. Teaching emphasises clear communication, so students develop strong oral and written presentation skills alongside their technical training.
The curriculum covers advanced, interdisciplinary tools for assessing and managing the effects of natural hazards on the built environment. You will learn to perform site- and structure-specific risk analyses using modern computational tools, and to apply modelling, simulation and performance-based design methods. Practical elements include fieldwork and laboratory investigations, and elective modules allow you to deepen particular specialisms or pursue research-oriented paths.
Framed in an international context, the programme examines how structural engineering contributes to reducing the impact of disasters and explores the socioeconomic and environmental dimensions of hazard chains. It combines practical engineering with state-of-the-art concepts from computational mechanics, dynamics and stochastic analysis, preparing graduates for careers or further research in earthquake, flood and wind engineering at regional and global scales. The programme is taught in English.
Core learning outcomes and professional skills
This two-year (four-semester) master’s programme combines a structured core curriculum with flexible electives and an independent research component to train engineers in assessing and managing natural hazards affecting the built environment. The taught portion focuses on foundational and advanced topics, while the capstone elements (a special project and a Master’s thesis) provide opportunities to apply methods to real-world problems. Part-time study is available on request.
Core coursework builds analytical and practical skills needed to evaluate hazard exposure and structural vulnerability, quantify risk, and design mitigation and adaptation measures. Graduates should be able to:
The programme mixes compulsory modules with elective streams so you can tailor learning to interests such as modelling, design, or risk management. Assessment combines exams, coursework and project work, culminating in a 24-credit Master’s thesis (carried out over 18 weeks) that demonstrates your ability to conduct sustained, independent research.
Requirements (credit breakdown)
This Master's programme normally requires applicants to hold a first university degree that provides professional qualification in civil engineering or a closely related area. The admissions/examination committee will check whether your previous qualification is equivalent to a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering; if it is not deemed equivalent, the committee can set additional conditions you must satisfy before or during the programme.
Generally, applicants should have achieved a final grade of 2.5 or better for their first professionally qualifying Bachelor of Science degree. If your undergraduate programme did not include a final academic project (e.g., a thesis), you will need to submit other substantial academic work you have produced so the committee can assess your suitability.
Admission requirements (bullet points)
Winter Semester (International)
15 July 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 July 2026
Graduates are prepared for technical and leadership roles in structural and civil engineering firms, consultancy practices and government agencies dealing with hazard mitigation, resilience planning and infrastructure design. Typical tasks include planning and realisation of structures under hazard-specific constraints, site- and structure-specific risk analysis, and the application of performance-based design methods.
The programme also equips students for research and development roles in academia and industry, particularly in areas that require advanced skills in computational mechanics, dynamics and stochastic analysis. Elective modules and the research thesis provide pathways to doctoral studies or specialised professional careers in earthquake, flood and wind engineering.
Technical University of Munich — München
Deggendorf Institute of Technology — Cham
SRH University — Heidelberg
RWTH Aachen University — Aachen