Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace Engineering at FH Aachen - University of Applied Sciences offers a comprehensive and cutting-edge education designed to prepare students for the dynamic and technologically advanced aerospace industry. The program combines fundamental engineering principles with specialized knowledge in aircraft and spacecraft design, development, and maintenance, enabling graduates to contribute effectively to the fields of aviation, space exploration, and related sectors. Throughout the course of study, students engage with subjects such as aerodynamics, propulsion systems, structural mechanics, materials science, avionics, and control systems, gaining both theoretical understanding and practical skills. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory work, project-based tasks, and internships in collaboration with industry partners, ensuring that students acquire real-world experience. Additionally, the program focuses on sustainability and innovation, encouraging students to develop solutions for modern challenges like fuel efficiency, environmental impact, and the integration of new technologies such as drones and hybrid propulsion. Students also benefit from the university’s state-of-the-art facilities, including laboratories equipped for aerodynamics testing, engine simulation, and materials analysis. FH Aachen’s strong ties with the aerospace industry provide valuable networking opportunities, internships, and project collaborations, facilitating seamless transition from academia to professional life. The program aims to produce graduates who are not only technically proficient but also equipped with problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills necessary for leadership roles in aerospace organizations worldwide. Graduates of Aerospace Engineering at FH Aachen are prepared to pursue careers in aircraft design, aerospace research, manufacturing, testing, safety inspection, and more. They are also well-positioned to continue their studies at the master’s level or contribute to innovative projects in this rapidly evolving sector. With an emphasis on applied sciences and industry relevance, this degree prepares students to meet the demands of a global aerospace industry committed to safety, efficiency, and technological advancement.

Educational organisation

During the first and second academic semesters, students strengthen the basics in Engineering Sciences and widen their specialised knowledge in fields such as Environmental Effects of Aeronautical Propulsion, Dynamics of Flight/Flight Control, Transonic Aerodynamics, CFD Applications, Actuator Systems, Aircraft Design, Space Environment/Simulation, Space Mission Analysis and Design, Hybrid Spacecraft Propulsion or Space Utilisation and Technology. In the third semester, students do their research for the Master's thesis.
Students participating in the double degree programme spend their third and fourth semester at RMIT, following lectures and writing their Master's thesis.
Collaboration with selected outstanding partners from industry and research institutions is one of the unique characteristics of this course.

Study abroad unit(s)

Basic Master's programme:
It is possible to spend the third semester (Master's thesis) at a partner institution of higher education, either in Germany or abroad. FH Aachen University of Applied Sciences cooperates actively with more than 10 partner universities.
Double degree programme:
The first and second semester are spent at the home university (Aachen University of Applied Sciences), the third and fourth semester at the partner university (RMIT).

Internships

No mandatory internship is to be completed during the course.

Forms of assessment

Written (or oral) examinations at the end of each semester. Student workload in each module is 5 ECTS (= 150 hours of work). There are three examination periods per year.

Course objectives

The goal of the Master's programme in Aerospace Engineering is to produce engineers who possess up-to-date technical competence within a short period of time. Conducted in close cooperation with network partners, the programme cultivates engineers who can be placed in complex work environments with the latest tools. The graduates' expertise will eliminate the need for long training periods in such positions. Graduates are able to meet the demand for experts in the field of aerospace engineering.

Language requirements

All applicants have to submit proof of English language skills by passing either the
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English
Language Testing System (IELTS) examinations. The following minimum scores are
required:
(a) TOEFL with min. 92 score on the Internet-based test or
(b) TOEFL with min. 580 score on the paper-based test or
(c) IELTS with min. 6.5 overall band score
(d) Cambridge Certificate in English (FCE), Grade C
The proof of English skills must be submitted by the day of enrolment.

A degree of German language proficiency is also required. A Goethe Institute "Zertifikat Deutsch" at level B1 must be submitted at the time of enrolment.

Academic requirements

Bachelor's degree in Automotive Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
GRE General Test result is compulsory for non-EU applicants (with a minimum percentage of 83% in "quantitative Part" (named as "% below").
English language proficiency
German language proficiency on level B1 - Zertifikat Deutsch (for non-German applicants)

https://www.fh-aachen.de/en/course-of-study/aerospace-engineering-msc/application/

Enrolment fees

Before the semester starts, a mandatory social contribution (Sozialbeitrag) of 241.30 EUR per semester has to be paid. This contribution is not a tuition fee, but is used towards benefiting the Studentenwerk Aachen (housing and social affairs). It includes the student mobility ticket (public transport), which is valid for a period of one semester. This allows the use of public transport in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW).

Costs of living

The cost of living in Aachen amounts to approx. 700 EUR per month. Therefore, you should have at least 670 EUR per month available, which is equivalent to 8,040 EUR per year. Monthly costs comprise the following:
Social contribution and health insurance (up to age 30): approx. 80 EUR
Study materials, books: approx. 40 EUR
Accommodation: approx. 250-350 EUR (basic accommodation)
Food, clothes and other essentials: approx. 200 EUR
Computer, TV and radio licence fee: around 18 EUR
In order to cover your monthly living expenses, the amount mentioned above should be available under all circumstances.

Job opportunities

Applicants should not count on financing their stay in Aachen by working part-time during their studies. However, some students are successful in finding part-time jobs at the university, research institutes and engineering companies around Aachen region.

Arrival support

Orientation is provided for the non-German freshmen by student tutors, student services and the International Student Society (INCAS). The "Guide Book for Master's Students" of the Department of Aerospace Engineering also offers essential information regarding preparation prior to departure, finding accommodation after arriving in Aachen, and university life during the study period.
The faculty offers an orientation day for newly enrolled students. During this day, students receive presentations about the university, the faculty, all of the courses in the first semester, the library services, examination rules, and student projects. They also receive information on the university's software, enabling them to register on time for their courses.

Services and support for international students

Assistance with cultural and social issues, as well as academic advice and tutoring are available.

Accommodation

Generally, each student lives in a private room in a shared apartment. Living areas, bathrooms and cooking facilities are shared. Furnished rooms start at about 225 to 300 EUR per month plus about 75 EUR per month for electricity, water and heat. Most rooms require the first month's rent and a security deposit of one to three months' rent in advance before you can move into the room.