Environmental and Recycling Technology

Program overview

This English‑taught master’s explores the interdisciplinary technologies and strategies used to reduce environmental impact and promote the sustainable use of resources. Study is centred on developing and implementing innovative approaches for material recycling, organised waste management and lowering pollution levels so that natural resources are used more efficiently and environmental harm is minimised.

Graduates leave with the technical knowledge and problem‑solving skills needed to design and implement practical solutions to resource scarcity and environmental degradation. The programme prepares students to contribute to environmental protection efforts and to improve resource efficiency in industry, public policy or research—skills that are applicable across national and international contexts.

Key focus areas

• Innovative methods for material recycling
• Waste management systems and strategy
• Pollution reduction and mitigation techniques
• Sustainable use and efficient utilisation of natural resources
• Developing technological solutions to resource scarcity and environmental degradation

Curriculum overview

This Master's curriculum combines theoretical coursework with hands-on, practice-oriented training. Core taught modules cover project management, environmental law and life cycle analysis, while students choose specialisations in environmental engineering and recycling technology. Practical learning is emphasised through applied projects, which are frequently carried out in collaboration with industry partners.

Learning is rounded off by independent research: every student completes a Master's thesis that integrates their specialised knowledge and practical experience. Graduates emerge with the ability to manage environmental projects, assess environmental impacts across product life cycles, navigate relevant legal frameworks, and apply engineering and recycling solutions in real-world settings.

Key modules and learning outcomes

• Project management: planning, budgeting, risk assessment and coordination skills for environmental projects.
• Environmental law: understanding regulatory requirements, compliance processes and the legal context for environmental protection and waste management.
• Life cycle analysis (LCA): methods for quantifying environmental impacts across product and service life cycles and using LCA results to inform design and policy decisions.
• Specialisation — Environmental engineering: technical principles and design approaches for pollution control, resource recovery and system-level environmental solutions.
• Specialisation — Recycling technology: technologies and process knowledge for material recovery, recycling system design and optimisation.
• Practice-oriented projects with industry partners: application of classroom knowledge to real problems, teamwork, and exposure to industrial practice.
• Master's thesis: independent research or development project demonstrating mastery of chosen topics and the ability to synthesize theory and practice.

Program requirements

• Complete taught modules including project management, environmental law and life cycle analysis.
• Pursue a specialisation in either environmental engineering or recycling technology.
• Participate in practice-oriented project work, often conducted with industry partners.
• Produce and submit a Master's thesis integrating specialised knowledge and practical experience.

Graduates are prepared for technical and managerial roles in recycling and waste management companies, environmental consultancies, product life‑cycle and circular economy initiatives, and research and development teams focused on sustainable resource use. They will also find opportunities in public sector environmental agencies and non‑governmental organisations addressing pollution control and resource policy.

The combination of technical knowledge, life cycle analysis skills and project management experience makes alumni attractive to employers implementing circular‑economy solutions. While the programme is delivered in English, the integrated German courses and local industry ties improve prospects for internships and employment in Germany.