Modern vehicles are undergoing a rapid transformation as mechanical systems are integrated more and more with electronics and software. Trends such as X-by-wire architectures, higher-voltage electrical systems (e.g., a shift from 12 V toward 42 V architectures), and digital wiring harnesses are changing how cars are designed and built. This shift creates strong demand for engineers who can work across the boundaries of mechanics, electronics, and computer engineering.
This master’s programme gives you in-depth, multidisciplinary training focused on the technical foundations that underpin the automotive product life cycle. Course work covers core areas such as automotive electronics, control theory, development methodologies, vehicle control units and driver assistance systems, combining theoretical foundations with practical application. The curriculum is designed to provide a balanced mix of theory and hands-on relevance so you can contribute to the design and development of tomorrow’s vehicles.
Instruction is delivered in English and the programme attracts a multicultural cohort, helping you develop the communication and teamwork skills needed in international engineering projects. It is aimed at students who hold an undergraduate degree in an engineering discipline or in computer science and who aspire to take on responsibilities in development, organisation, or management within the automotive industry.
Admission requirements and key details
Curriculum overview
This master’s programme takes a scientific, engineering-focused approach to vehicle development, training students in the methods and mindset used by automotive engineers. You will learn the formal language and symbols commonly used in automotive projects and be expected to apply rigorous, research-oriented thinking. Study is designed to foster independent learning: students take responsibility for planning and carrying out scientific work rather than relying on guided instruction alone.
The course content builds on undergraduate engineering foundations through a range of specialised modules that deepen and broaden your technical knowledge. Practical lab work is an integral part of the programme: you will collaborate in an applied team project conducted in the university’s laboratories. These projects are deliberately organised in international and intercultural teams to mirror the global nature of the automotive industry and to develop cross-cultural teamwork skills.
The programme culminates in a master’s thesis that must be completed in the fourth semester. The thesis allows you to demonstrate your ability to conduct an independent, scientifically sound investigation within automotive engineering and to present results using the discipline’s accepted conventions.
Key modules (highlights)
Learning outcomes
You must hold a Bachelor's degree (or an equivalent qualification) in an engineering discipline or in computer science to be considered for this programme. Because applications exceed available places, a competitive two-stage aptitude selection is used to determine the best fit. A university selection committee carries out this assessment.
Stage one is a curricular review of your submitted documents (especially your Bachelor's certificate) to check that you have completed key foundational modules. Applicants who pass stage one are invited to stage two, an interview that evaluates motivation, professional suitability and communication skills. Interview dates are scheduled in June and July for winter-semester applicants and in January and February for summer-semester applicants. A legally binding decision about admission can only be made after the university has reviewed your full application and educational records.
Winter Semester (International)
15 June 2026
Summer Semester (International)
1 December 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 July 2026
Summer Semester (EU/EEA)
15 January 2027
Graduates are prepared for technical and development roles in the automotive industry, such as systems engineer, ECU/software developer, control systems engineer, driver assistance/ADAS specialist, and e-mobility or power-electronics engineer. The programme’s emphasis on the interface between mechanics, electronics and software also fits graduates for positions in Tier‑1 suppliers, OEM R&D departments, automotive software companies and mobility-tech firms.
The international instruction and intercultural team projects equip graduates for work in multinational teams and cross-border projects. Practical lab work, a possible internship and a research-oriented master thesis further increase employability. Basic German (A1 minimum during studies, encouraged to reach A2) improves chances for internships and local employment in Germany.
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