Mechanical Engineering: Sustainable Energy Systems and Circular Process Engineering (MSc)

This specialisation trains engineers to tackle one of the major challenges of our era: creating sustainable energy systems and steering industry away from fossil-based production toward a CO2-neutral, circular economy. The focus is on the technical and systemic changes needed for the energy transition, linking energy system design with circular process engineering to reduce emissions and close material loops.

Students gain a multidisciplinary perspective that connects core mechanical-engineering principles with sustainability-driven process design. The programme emphasises the integration of energy technologies, resource-efficient process concepts and lifecycle thinking so graduates can design technical solutions that are both environmentally and economically robust.

The degree is particularly relevant for those aiming to work at the intersection of engineering, energy policy and industrial transformation—whether in research, engineering design, consulting or industry roles supporting the low‑carbon transition. For detailed course information and application procedures, consult the programme webpage: https://www.mb.rub.de/studium-mb/en/master-mechanical-engineering-sece/why-study-sece/.

Requirements (general guidance)

• A recognised undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering, process engineering, or a closely related discipline
• Proof of English language proficiency (as specified by the university)
• Academic transcripts and a curriculum vitae
• Motivation letter or statement of purpose
• Any additional application documents and specific eligibility criteria listed on the programme webpage (check the link above for up‑to‑date details)

Graduates are prepared for technical and engineering roles that support the energy transition and the shift toward circular production systems. Typical pathways include positions as energy systems engineers, process engineers for circular technologies, R&D engineers in renewable energy and resource recovery, and technical specialists in industrial decarbonisation.