Program overview The programme is a three-semester, English-taught Master of Science delivered jointly by FH Westküste University of Applied Sciences and HAW Hamburg. It concentrates on the design and real-world use of microelectronic systems—technologies that are central to both the energy transition and ongoing digitalisation. The curriculum addresses current industry needs and emerging applications while offering hands-on learning and close ties to research.
Career and research focus Graduates are prepared to contribute to the development of integrated circuits, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and artificial-intelligence-enabled devices, with strong relevance for sectors such as e-mobility. A notable feature of the programme is its close cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute for Silicon Technology (ISIT), which gives students access to one of Europe’s leading microelectronics research environments and advanced lab facilities.
Learning approach and opportunities By combining the complementary strengths of two universities, the course emphasizes practice-oriented training, industry connections and international collaboration. The programme is designed to equip students for senior technical or managerial roles, specialised expert positions and provides a solid foundation for those wishing to pursue doctoral studies.
Key facts and requirements (from original description)
This master's curriculum combines hands‑on design and research training in microelectronic systems with elective options for individual specialization. The first year is split into two teaching semesters that balance system‑level design (SoC, embedded signal processing, smart sensors) with device‑ and chip‑level topics (microtechnology, chip design, high‑speed digital design). Learning builds through two consecutive sustainable research projects that bridge coursework and applied research. The program concludes in the third semester with an independent master's thesis and a colloquium to present and defend results.
The winter semester focuses on system integration and signal processing for embedded applications, while the summer semester moves into fabrication, physical chip design and cutting‑edge topics such as machine learning on resource‑constrained devices. The pair of sustainable research projects encourages continuous, practice‑oriented research experience across both semesters. Elective modules in each term let you tailor the program to your interests (for example, deeper theory, application domains, or cross‑disciplinary skills).
This programme expects applicants to hold a relevant technical bachelor's degree and to demonstrate sufficient study depth in electronics/information technology. English proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English. Relevant work experience is welcome and can improve your ranking in the selection process.
Winter Semester (International)
30 November – 17 February for the following summer semesterInformation regarding your applicationWhen applying for admission to our university, it is important to note the application deadlines. In order to be accepted, it must be clear that the applicant will complete their Bachelor's degree in a timely manner before the start of the programme. This means that the thesis must be submitted before the end of the previous semester, and a colloquium date should be set, if possible.It is also important to apply to the university that is organising the desired semester, such as applying to Hamburg for the winter semester and Heide for the summer semester. If a student is conditionally admitted with the requirement of completing 30 credits, they should still enrol at Heide.
Summer Semester (International)
17 February 2026
Summer Semester (EU/EEA)
17 February 2026
Graduates are prepared for roles in the semiconductor, automotive (especially e‑mobility), sensor and embedded systems industries, and in research organisations. Typical positions include design engineer (IC/chip/embedded), MEMS engineer, system architect for embedded AI applications, R&D engineer at research institutes or Fraunhofer partners, and project or product manager in high‑tech companies.
The programme’s strong industry ties and access to ISIT facilities also make it suitable for students aiming to pursue doctoral studies or specialised R&D careers. Professional experience is valued in admissions and the curriculum aims to equip students with both practical engineering skills and the foundation for leadership or academic paths.
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