Master of Science in Process Engineering (MPE)

Program overview

This two-university, English-taught Master’s programme is delivered as a double degree in cooperation between Offenburg University of Applied Sciences and the University of Warmia and Mazury (UWM) in Olsztyn, Poland. The full course runs over three semesters and develops advanced competencies in process engineering, with study tracks available in chemical and thermal process engineering or in food technology. The curriculum also intentionally builds intercultural skills to prepare students for work in multinational teams and global process-engineering contexts.

Study focus and structure

At Offenburg, teaching concentrates on chemical processes and renewable energy conversion, while the UWM component strengthens knowledge in environmental technologies and bioanalytics. Courses combine lectures and seminars with substantial laboratory practice and training in scientific working methods. Elective modules let you tailor the programme toward bioprocess engineering or renewable energy conversion, so that together with the compulsory modules you cover the major fields of process engineering: chemical, environmental and bioengineering.

Outcome and added value

On successful completion you receive degrees from both partner universities. Graduates leave with specialized technical expertise, practical lab experience and cross-cultural competence that are relevant for careers in industry, research or further academic study across Europe and beyond.

Admission — what to check before applying

• Exact entry requirements and application procedures (academic prerequisites, language proof, documents and deadlines) are set by the partner universities — consult the official programme pages for up-to-date details.
• Typical items you should prepare: a relevant Bachelor’s degree, academic transcripts, a CV, proof of English proficiency and a motivation statement; additional documents (e.g., references or portfolio) may be requested.

Program structure and study locations The Master’s programme is split between two locations: the winter semester is taught in Offenburg (Germany) and the summer semester takes place at the University of Warmia and Mazury (UWM) in Olsztyn, Poland. This bi-national setup gives international students hands-on exposure to different teaching and research environments and builds intercultural competence as an integral part of the curriculum.

Core modules and skills developed (Offenburg) During the winter semester in Offenburg you will cover advanced process-engineering topics such as thermochemical and biotechnological conversion processes (including biomass combustion and other renewable-energy technologies), thermal treatment methods, and sustainable process engineering. Complementary courses in process control engineering, modelling and simulation, water processing, and multiphase flows provide the theoretical and practical tools to analyse, model and optimise complex chemical and biological processes. Intercultural competence training is also embedded to prepare graduates for collaborative, international work settings. Graduates gain the ability to design and evaluate sustainable conversion processes, apply simulation and control techniques to real systems, and address water- and resource-related process challenges.

Specialisation and thesis (Olsztyn) In the summer semester at UWM students choose one of two specialisation tracks: Environmental Science and Biotechnology (with subjects such as analytical training, biotechnology for environmental protection, water and wastewater treatment, toxicology and genetic-engineering techniques) or Food Engineering (covering basics of nutrition, food physics and rheology, technical microbiology, enzymology, processing equipment and food quality). The programme concludes with a Master’s thesis, accompanied by a presentation and a final examination. The thesis may be carried out at a university, a research institute, or an R&D-oriented industrial company, allowing students to demonstrate independent research, applied problem-solving and the ability to communicate results professionally.

Key requirements and completion steps

• Complete the core and elective modules taught in Offenburg (winter semester) and the chosen specialisation modules at UWM in Olsztyn (summer semester)
• Select one summer-track: Environmental Science & Biotechnology OR Food Engineering
• Submit and defend a Master’s thesis (research can be done at a university, research facility, or R&D-focused industrial company)
• Give the required complementary presentation and pass the final examination

The programme prepares graduates for technical and development roles in sectors such as chemical and process industries, renewable energy, environmental technology, biotechnology and the food processing industry. The combination of theoretical coursework, laboratory practice and a research-oriented thesis equips students for positions in R&D, process design, quality and environmental management, or technical consulting.

If you intend to pursue a doctorate or work long-term in Germany, strong German language skills will be important; however, German or Polish is not required to complete the programme. The thesis option at industry partners also supports transition into R&D roles in companies.