This programme takes a computer science–centred approach to developing the skills needed to build and maintain highly complex hardware/software systems used in mobility — especially cars and aircraft. It focuses on advanced software engineering and system design techniques that automotive software developers require to design safe, reliable and maintainable embedded systems.
The Master’s is research-oriented and closely linked to the faculty’s main research area, Embedded Self‑Organising Systems (ESS). Research themes are taught directly within the curriculum, and the programme explicitly integrates research practice: in the third semester students take a research-related seminar and complete either a research internship or a research project.
The curriculum is organised to give students substantial freedom to specialise. Typical specialisation tracks include Automotive Software Platforms and Software Verification, enabling graduates to aim for roles in industry development teams or to continue into research.
Key facts / requirements (concise)
This four-semester Master's curriculum combines core computer science with specialised automotive topics to prepare students for developing software for modern vehicles. The programme balances theory and hands-on practice: you study foundational computing topics alongside modules focused on embedded and automotive-specific software, then apply that knowledge in research and project work culminating in a 30‑ECTS Master's thesis.
Key modules target the competencies employers expect from automotive software engineers. The Automotive Software Technology and Embedded Systems modules build the ability to design, implement and integrate software on vehicle platforms. Real-Time and Communications Systems focus on time-critical behaviour and in-vehicle networking, while the Computer Science module strengthens algorithmic, software‑engineering and systems knowledge. The Key Competence, Research Seminar and Research Internship modules develop professional skills, scientific methods and practical experience, and the Master’s Thesis demonstrates independent research or development capability.
Requirements and credit breakdown
This structure ensures both breadth across computer-science fundamentals and depth in automotive software engineering, with substantial research and practical components to demonstrate readiness for industry roles or further academic work.
Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in a computer-science-related subject. Below are the specific undergraduate fields that meet the admission requirement for this Master’s program.
For several engineering degrees listed, the undergraduate curriculum must have included a substantial number of computer science courses or electives; applicants from those programs should be prepared to document the computer-science content of their studies.
Winter Semester (International)
15 July 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 July 2026
Graduates are prepared for technical roles in the automotive and aerospace sectors such as automotive software developer, embedded systems engineer, real‑time systems engineer, software verification/validation engineer, and systems architect. The programme's focus on software engineering for complex hardware/software systems and modules in embedded and real‑time systems targets the specific needs of vehicle and avionics software development.
The embedded research orientation and mandatory research internship facilitate transitions into R&D positions and provide a strong foundation for pursuing a PhD. Industry connections through internships and project work also support employability in automotive suppliers, OEMs, mobility startups, and research institutes focusing on embedded systems and safety‑critical software.
Hochschule für Technik Stuttgart - University of Applied Sciences — Stuttgart
University of Regensburg — Regensburg
University of Bonn — Bonn
Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg — Cottbus