Computer Aided Conception and Production in Mechanical Engineering

Profound skills in computer-aided methods are of growing importance for every engineer in all fields of professional activity. The four-semester programme Master of Science in Computer Aided Conception and Production in Mechanical Engineering (CAME) is designed to broaden and increase the knowledge and practical use of computer-aided simulation techniques in mechanical engineering. This programme specifically addresses the needs of the practising mechanical engineer. Its focus lies on the development and application of computer-aided methods and systems at all stages of product development, from the initial conception of machines to the manufacturing process.

Within one programme you can choose between two specialisations - one design-oriented and one production-oriented - to best fit your personal interest. Thus, students can chart a customised learning programme according to their educational background and professional career plans.
The study track "Conception of Machines" prepares students to develop and apply modern computer-aided methods focused on the construction and dimensioning of structures and mechanical engineering systems according to functional requirements. The core compulsory courses for this area of specialisation include the fundamentals of structural mechanics, computational analysis, finite element methods, and computer-aided design. The other study track, "Production of Machines", prepares students to develop and use computer-aided systems in modern industrial production, which includes manufacturing technology, production systems, and production management.

Educational organisation

The CAME programme consists of lectures and practice elements such as exercises and laboratory sessions. The subjects are taught by academically accredited lecturers from the respective disciplines or faculties, thus ensuring a broad and thorough understanding of fundamentals.
The programme offers two study tracks: "Conception of Machines" and "Production of Machines". Students must choose one specialisation to pursue in their studies.
Both tracks are built upon common core courses and allow students to specialise in their field of research in more depth.

Common compulsory courses for both study tracks:

• Numerical Methods in Mechanical Engineering
• Finite Element Methods for Engineers
• Advanced Software Engineering
• Continuum Mechanics
• Multibody Dynamics
• Finite Element Methods in Lightweight Design
• Computational Fluid Dynamics I & II
• Simulation of Discrete Event Systems

Common elective courses for both study specialisations:

• Mechatronics and Control Techniques for Production Plants
• Practical Introduction to FEM-Software I & II
• Finite Element Methods in Lightweight Design
• Welding and Joining Technologies
• Micro- and Macrosimulation of Casting Processes
• Modelling, Model Reduction and Simulation in Laser Processing (Lasers, Application, Design)
• Selected Topics of Inelasticity Theory
• Molecular Mechanics and Multi-Scale Modelling
• Mechanics of Engineering Materials
• Reliable Simulation in the Mechanics of Materials and Structures
• Sustainable Manufacturing
• Mechanics of Forming Processes

Study track: Conception of Machines
The study track "Conception of Machines" prepares students to develop and apply modern computer-aided methods focusing on the construction and dimensioning of structures and mechanical engineering systems according to functional requirements. The core compulsory courses for this area of specialisation include the fundamentals of structural mechanics, computational analysis, finite element methods and computer-aided design. In addition to the compulsory courses, students choose various elective courses.

Specific compulsory courses for Conception of Machines:

• Nonlinear Structural Mechanics
• Failure of Structures and Structural Elements
• Machine Design Process and Practical Applications of Computer Aided Engineering Tools

Specific elective courses for Conception of Machines:

• Fundamentals of Lightweight Design
• Tensor Algebra and Tensor Analysis for Engineering Students I & II

Study track: Production of Machines
The study specialisation "Production of Machines" prepares students to develop and use computer-aided systems in modern industrial production, which includes manufacturing technology, production systems, and production management.
In addition to the compulsory courses, students choose various elective courses.

Specific compulsory courses for Production of Machines:

• Quality Management
• Production Management A
• Modelling & Simulation in Manufacturing Technology

Specific elective courses for Production of Machines:

• Machine Tools
• Industrial Engineering and Ergonomics
• Control Engineering
• Manufacturing Technology I & II
• Production Metrology
• Computational Modelling of Membranes and Shells

In addition to the coursework, students of both study specialisations complete the following:

• a complementary German course (to be completed with the DSM examination after B1 level)
• a nine-week industrial internship
• a study-integrated mini thesis
• a four-month Master's thesis

Study abroad unit(s)

The programme takes place in Aachen (Germany). The study-integrated industrial internship and/or one of the scientific projects (mini thesis or Master's thesis) may be completed in other countries.

Internships

A mandatory internship of nine weeks has to be completed within the study programme. The staff of the RWTH International Academy assists students in finding an internship.

Forms of assessment

Written examination, oral examination

Course objectives

The Master's degree programme Computer Aided Conception and Production in Mechanical Engineering is designed to broaden and increase the knowledge and practical use of computer-aided simulation techniques in mechanical engineering. Its particular focus is on the development and application of computer-aided methods and systems at all stages of product development.
Graduates of the MSc Computer Aided Conception and Production in Mechanical Engineering will be qualified to work in a multitude of professional areas in the industry, in research institutes, or as engineering consultants in traditional manufacturing companies, e.g. in the mobility and energy sector, in logistics and distribution firms, in construction or financial institutions, in food, health care or medical establishments. With their broad knowledge in manufacturing, automation, design, production, and management, CAE specialists are well-equipped to perform interdisciplinary work and are ready to take leading positions in the industry.
In awarding the RWTH Aachen University Master's degree, the programme gives its graduates a degree that is recognised worldwide and qualifies its graduates for further PhD studies.

Our graduates...

• work at companies such as Anvis, BASF, Continental, Fiat, Ford, Kautex, Liebherr, Rolls Royce, Toyota, Volkswagen.
• find a job within three months after graduation (about 68%).
• increase their salary by up to 100% (about 53%).

Language requirements

If you would like to attend an English-taught Master's programme, you must be fluent in English (oral and written) in order to understand lectures, textbooks and manuals in English and to participate in lab projects, industrial internships and examinations.
One of the following certificates must be submitted:

• TOEFL Internet-based: minimum of 90 pts/paper-based: minimum of 577 pts
• IELTS test: minimum overall band 5.5 pts
• Cambridge Test - Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)
• First Certificate in English (FCE), completed with B
• placement test of RWTH Aachen University's Language Centre (B2 - only available for students already enrolled at RWTH Aachen University)

Applicants who have graduated with a Bachelor's degree in the USA, UK, Canada (the English-speaking part), Ireland, New Zealand or Australia do not need to submit language certificates.
Certification of German language proficiency is not necessary in order to apply for an English-taught RWTH Master's degree programme. Admitted students will attend an obligatory German language course at the beginning of September (around one month prior to the beginning of the programme).

Academic requirements

A Bachelor of Engineering or Science in mechanical engineering or a related discipline, such as automotive, aerospace or energy engineering, manufacturing, structural, industrial or production engineering, awarded by an internationally recognised university-level institution

Students are expected to have performed well in their undergraduate degree.
They must have fundamental knowledge in the following subjects: mechanics, materials science, thermodynamics, machine design, informatics, mathematics, physics; furthermore in: fluid mechanics, automatic control, finite elements, modelling, theory of vibrations, manufacturing engineering, CAD.
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) must be presented as an application document.
In addition, students should have gained relevant work experience of not less than 12 months (as a rule), during or after their Bachelor's degree programme.

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Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Enrolment fees

Approx. 245 EUR student services fee per semester
The fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport in the North Rhine-Westphalia area.

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

Generally, students enrolled at RWTH Aachen University have the opportunity to find a job on campus and work up to 19 hours per week. This also allows students to become more familiar with the university institutes and to take part in projects related to their field of study.
The maximum working limit for off-campus work is 120 days per year for non-EU students.

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 staff of the RWTH International Academy offers new students different support services upon arrival and encourages current Master's students to help fellow students get settled in Aachen. Orientation days will be organised to help new students find their way around the campus and build new contacts with fellow students. Services include:

• Daily consultation hours
• Orientation days
• Senior mentoring programme
• Academic and social mentoring programme
• German language course

Students are also offered assistance with the following tasks, amongst others:

• Finding accommodation
• Admission procedures
• Opening a bank account
• Insurance matters
• Getting to know the city and the university campus

Services and support for international students

Continuous Support Programme:
One unit of the RWTH International Academy specialises in organising international programmes in the field of engineering. The experienced and motivated team takes care of all organisational and administrative matters and offers an intensive support programme for international students to ensure an excellent working environment. Among others, the following services are offered:

• mentoring programme and study planning support
• group meetings to discuss organisational issues
• social and cultural events
• excursions, field trips and company visits
• career events and application training
• daily consultation hours to support any kind of individual issues

Accommodation

The staff of the RWTH International Academy offers support in finding accommodation either in a student residence, in a private apartment, or in a shared flat.
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 RWTH International Academy can provide students with information beforehand and upon arrival.
For short-term accommodation, there are many hotels and two youth hostels.
Further guidance on student accommodation in Aachen can be found at:
https://www.academy.rwth-aachen.de/en/education-formats/msc-degree-programmes/came/accommodation