Computer and Systems Engineering

The Master's degree study programme is organised into four phases containing modules to be completed within four semesters.
The first phase - basic studies - consists of basic courses teaching the required technical knowledge in the following areas:

• Information Systems
• Mobile Communication Networks
• Software & Systems Engineering
• Control Engineering
• Theoretical Computer Science

In addition, students will learn and train research skills in seminars for this purpose.

In the second phase - advanced studies - students can choose from the following modules, which provide profound and expanded knowledge for further study:

• Computer Engineering & Architecture
• Mobile Communications
• Systems Optimisation
• Systems Security
• Advanced Database Systems

In the individual study phase, students will work on research projects individually as well as in groups, where they can apply their knowledge and also become skilled in presenting results and functioning in teams. Students have the opportunity to complete an optional 10-week internship in the third semester.

The Master's thesis will be prepared in the fourth semester. The goal of the Master's thesis is to demonstrate the student's ability to apply theoretical knowledge to new challenging research topics.

Educational organisation

The programme consists of lectures, seminars, practice elements such as lab and group studies, research projects, and small-group discussion.

Forms of assessment

Written and oral exams in accordance with the guidelines, Master's thesis

Course objectives

Today, modern technologies in all areas of business and personal life are characterised by a high degree of software-intensive solutions. On the one hand, we can observe a growing number of devices with embedded microprocessors; on the other hand, most microprocessors are used today in automotive, power and mechanical engineering as well as medical systems.
Companies and research institutions working in the area of software-intensive systems have a high demand for skilled specialists with expertise in both computer science and automation/engineering, and who are able to follow a holistic systems-oriented development approach.
Furthermore, these application domains are characterised by an enormous need for research - topics such as embedded systems, self-managed systems, Internet of things or driver-assistance systems are hot research trends not only in Germany but all over the world.

The aim of the Master's programme Research in Computer & Systems Engineering is to qualify students for academic and industrial research in these fields. This requires profound knowledge in computer science, automation and further engineering disciplines as application domain. Therefore, students acquire both methodical competence and the ability to carry out independent research work.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their English skills: TOEFL 550 (paper-based), 213 (computer-based), 79 (internet-based) or equivalent

Academic requirements

Bachelor's degree in computer science or computer engineering of at least six semesters (180 credits) from a university

Enrolment fees

Currently 111.40 EUR for the first semester and 96.40 EUR per semester for all following semesters, including a public transport ticket

Costs of living

Approx. 670 EUR per month (including accommodation)

Arrival support

See: http://www.tu-ilmenau.de/we4you/

Services and support for international students

The "we4you" network at Ilmenau University of Technology supports international students starting on the day of their arrival. "We4you" tutors provide help in personal and organisational issues. Furthermore, "we4you" organises events and excursions for international students - a great opportunity to get to know each other.
See: http://www.tu-ilmenau.de/we4you

Accommodation

The TU Ilmenau is a campus university. Most of its academic buildings and all of its dormitories are located on the Ehrenberg campus. The dormitories have been renovated in the past few years in order to accommodate students in single and double-bed rooms. The Student Guild guarantees all first semester students a room in the dormitories, provided that they apply on time. The dormitory rent in Ilmenau is approx. 150-230 EUR per bed per month, depending on the type of apartment and how well it is furnished. Of course, you may also look independently for a privately rented apartment in Ilmenau and the surrounding area. We cannot offer estimates on the cost of private accommodation because prices vary widely and are not comparable due to the wide range of conditions.