Communications Engineering

This programme provides in-depth theoretical and practical knowledge in modern communication technologies. Its particular focus is on advanced digital multimedia transmission systems. Students will be trained in the whole spectrum of telecommunication systems from applications to antenna design, from network protocols to information theory.
The programme covers all components of the development towards the future internet and the next generation of cellular radio systems and discusses the necessary techniques and tools.

Educational organisation

This two-year programme consists of lectures, exercises, seminars, and experimental laboratories in Communications Engineering, an industrial internship, and a six-month period for the Master's thesis. In addition, students attend a three-semester German language course. Furthermore, they can take any voluntary elective courses offered by the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology.

Study abroad unit(s)

The programme takes place in Aachen (Germany). Industrial internships and/or one of the scientific projects may be carried out in other European countries.

Internships

Students are required to conduct an industrial internship for a minimum period of 18 weeks as an integrated and compulsory part of their curriculum.

Forms of assessment

After each semester of lectures, students are assessed by exams. The Master's thesis is concluded with an oral presentation.

Course objectives

Graduates of this programme will be able to apply scientific methods to analyse and to design future multimedia communication systems using state-of-the-art software tools and implementation technologies. The programme will also train students to work in project teams and to write scientific and technical documents.

Language requirements

Applicants must have proof of their English language skills (TOEFL 550 paper-based, 213 computer-based, 80 internet-based; IELTS 6.0). The TOEFL must not be older than two years when the course starts. No previous knowledge of German is required.

Academic requirements

• Performance well above average (upper third) with a GPA of at least 75% (or 3.5 on a scale of 4.0, or 4.0 on a scale of 5.0, or "First Class with Distinction")
• Bachelor's studies at an internationally recognised university
• Bachelor's degree related to communications engineering
• Excellent performance in the field of communications engineering, especially in the courses "Probability and Random Processes", "Information Theory", and "Signals and Systems"
• Students should also have substantial background in mathematics and digital signal processing as well as fundamental knowledge in computer programming.
• For possible further requirements (e.g. GRE, GATE, etc.) please consult the course website at http://www.ce.rwth-aachen.de

Enrolment fees

Approx. 200 EUR student services contribution per semester
The fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport in all of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Costs of living

The average cost of living and studying, including food, accommodation, personal and social expenses, and study-related costs, is estimated to be 700-900 EUR per month.

Job opportunities

For those interested in working to help finance their education, there are a few opportunities. Teaching and research assistant positions are available and can be organised via the professors of the different programmes. However, these are normally awarded first to students who have already started their academic studies in a programme. Students working as a teaching or research assistant may work a maximum of 19 hours a week, but will not earn enough to cover all of their living expenses. Another option is to work outside the university, for example in a shop or restaurant. By law, a student from outside the EU is permitted to work either 120 full days or 240 half days per calendar year. We do caution students to be careful about taking on outside work commitments, as completing a Master's degree within the designated two years will be difficult if a student spends too much time away from his or her studies.

Funding opportunities within the university

A limited number of scholarships from various organisations is available to help students finance their studies. Please see the following website for a list of exchange programmes, scholarships, and grants, together with their specific application requirements and conditions, and/or contact the International Office directly for advice and assistance.
http://www.rwth-aachen.de/scholarships

Arrival support

The International Office's Info Service Centre (ISC) provides information and services for international students and visiting scientists of RWTH Aachen University upon their arrival in Aachen. RWTH Aachen University considers the integration of international visiting scientists and students an important task and, in order to reach this goal, offers the following assistance for international students and scientists:

• Accommodation information
• Assisting students during admission
• Registering your address with local authorities
• Opening a bank account
• Insurance
• Locating pertinent university and city offices
• Tips for finding a job in Aachen

These services are offered to students during the orientation phase at the beginning of each semester. The ISC offers a social programme called "Leisure and Pleasure" and edits a monthly newsletter for international students and scientists.

Services and support for international students

German language course
Intensive course guidance and counselling
Sports and social activities
Tutor groups

Accommodation

RWTH Aachen University has a limited number of dorm rooms and studio apartments. However, there are usually waiting lists for these rooms, and students will probably need to find private accommodation first. There are a number of options for finding private accommodation in and around Aachen, and the International Office can provide students with information beforehand or upon arrival.
For a furnished room the average rent per month is about 200-250 EUR and for a two- to three-room flat the average rent per month starts at 300 EUR. Please note that there are only a very limited number of family apartments in the university dorms, which is why students who bring their spouses or families with them will most likely need to find private accommodation.
For short-term accommodation, there are many hotels and a youth hostel.