Master of Science in Quantum Engineering

Overview This Master’s programme sits at the crossroads of quantum physics and electrical engineering, teaching students how quantum science is now being translated into practical, industrial-scale technologies. Building on more than a century of fundamentals in quantum physics, the course focuses on the emerging sector of quantum technologies — fields that aim to outperform classical approaches in sensing and measurement, secure communication, high-performance computing and navigation.

What the programme offers You will receive a broad and rigorous education combined with hands-on research experience in quantum engineering and related miniaturisation techniques. The curriculum prepares you to design, build and test quantum devices and systems that enable quantum-enhanced sensing, communication, computing and navigation. Taught in English, the programme trains the next generation of interdisciplinary scientists who can move seamlessly between theory, device engineering and experimental validation.

Why it matters for your career Graduates leave equipped for roles in research labs, industry R&D, and technology startups working on quantum hardware and applications, or for further academic research. The emphasis on system-level design, practical realisation and miniaturisation makes this degree particularly relevant for students aiming to work on the technical challenges of bringing quantum technologies to market.

Key aims and focus areas

• Provide comprehensive education and practical research training in quantum engineering and miniaturisation methods
• Prepare students to design, realise and test quantum systems for sensing, communication, computing and navigation
• Train interdisciplinary scientists capable of bridging quantum physics and electrical/electronic engineering approaches

Curriculum overview

The programme begins with two semesters focused on bringing all students to a common level and building essential knowledge. During this phase you take adaptation courses alongside core lectures and laboratory classes in quantum physics and electrical engineering science. The combination of theory and hands‑on lab work ensures you develop both the conceptual foundations and practical experimental skills needed for advanced work in quantum engineering.

In the third semester you choose how to specialise or broaden your profile. Options include taking additional courses to deepen expertise in a particular topic, spending a semester abroad to gain international experience, or completing an internship at a company or research institution to acquire industry or applied research exposure. This flexibility lets you tailor the programme to academic or career goals.

The final semester is devoted entirely to a six‑month Master’s thesis. This capstone project gives you the opportunity to carry out independent research or an applied engineering project, synthesising your coursework, laboratory experience and any internship or international work into a substantial piece of work.

Program structure — core requirements

• First two semesters: adaptation courses + core lectures and lab courses in quantum physics and electrical engineering science
• Third semester (choose one or combine, depending on the study plan): additional specialist coursework OR a semester abroad OR an internship at a company or research institution
• Final semester: six‑month Master’s thesis

Key modules and expected learning outcomes

• Key modules: adaptation courses; core quantum physics lectures; laboratory courses in quantum physics; electrical engineering science lectures and labs
• Learning outcomes: solid grounding in quantum physics and relevant electrical engineering concepts; practical laboratory and experimental skills; ability to integrate theoretical and applied approaches in quantum engineering; experience of international study or industrial/research practice (if chosen); capability to design and complete an independent research or engineering project demonstrated in the Master’s thesis

Graduates are prepared for technical and research roles in the emerging quantum technologies industry, including quantum-enabled sensing and measurement, secure quantum communication, quantum computing and quantum navigation. The programme's combination of quantum physics, electrical engineering and hands-on lab experience equips students for positions in research institutions, aerospace and defence organisations, quantum hardware and software companies, semiconductor firms, and specialised startups.

Many graduates pursue doctoral research given the programme's research focus and industry collaborations (e.g. DLR). Others enter R&D, product development, testing and validation roles or technical consulting positions where expertise in quantum system design, miniaturisation and testing is required.