Automation & Control (A&C)

Overview This four-semester (two-year) Master's programme is taught in English and requires the completion of 120 ECTS credits. It concentrates on advanced topics in automation and control, combining theoretical courses with hands-on lab work and a seminar component to deepen technical and research skills relevant to modern mechatronic and control-engineering roles.

The curriculum is made up of a set of compulsory core modules covering classical and modern control methods, signal processing, mechatronics, modelling and identification, and applied laboratory work. The elective portion allows you to tailor the degree to your interests by choosing from departmental options, modules across the university, or undertaking an individual project either at an academic chair or in industry.

Core compulsory modules (examples)

• Logic Control
• Nonlinear and Adaptive Controlling
• Digital Signal Processing
• Robust Control
• Mechatronic Systems
• Lab Automation and Control
• Methods of Soft-Control
• Modelling and Identification
• Seminar (with a selectable topic)

Elective options and project opportunities

• A wide range of elective modules offered by the EIT (Electrical, Information Technology) department
• Subject-related modules from other departments across the university
• Individual projects conducted at an RPTU research chair or in industry

Key facts / requirements

• Duration: 4 semesters (2 years)
• Total workload: 120 ECTS credits required for graduation
• Language of instruction: English
• Programme components include compulsory core modules, elective coursework, a seminar, and the option to complete an individual project (academic or industry-based)

For official regulations and detailed administrative information, consult the programme regulations at: https://eit.rptu.de/en/studies/master-in-english

At the start of every semester the programme runs an introductory session. In that meeting staff present the generic study plan and explain the recommended structure and organisation of your studies. The session is the primary occasion to learn how modules, credits and timelines are arranged, and how to align course choices with degree requirements.

The generic study plan (introduced in that session and documented in the regulations link above) is where you will find the programme’s key modules and the formal learning outcomes for the Master’s. Use the introduction to clarify module sequencing, elective options, workload distribution across semesters, and expectations for projects or thesis work. For international students, these sessions are particularly useful for understanding administrative deadlines, credit transfer possibilities, and how to balance coursework with research or practical placements.

Quick checklist / requirements

• Read the official regulations and study plan at the linked URL.
• Attend the introductory session at the beginning of each semester.
• Review the presented generic study plan to understand module sequencing and recommended study structure.
• Use the session to ask about elective choices, thesis timing, credit transfer, and administrative procedures.

Graduates are prepared for technical and engineering roles in automation, control systems and mechatronics across industrial sectors. Typical positions include control systems engineer, automation engineer, systems integrator, R&D engineer, and roles in industrial instrumentation, robotics and embedded systems development. The programme’s strong practical components and options for industry projects also support transitions into applied development or engineering roles in production and automation companies.

With the programme’s international elements and English instruction, graduates can pursue careers both in Germany and abroad, or continue into research and PhD programmes focusing on advanced control methods, robotics or mechatronic systems.