International Engineering (IEB)

The International Engineering (IEB) program at Furtwangen University offers a comprehensive and innovative education designed to prepare students for the global engineering sector. This Bachelor's degree program combines rigorous technical training with intercultural competence, fostering the skills necessary to tackle complex engineering challenges in an increasingly interconnected world. The curriculum emphasizes core engineering principles such as mechanical, electrical, and software engineering, integrated with modern topics like renewable energy, automation, and digitalization. Students benefit from an international academic environment, including courses taught in English, international exchange opportunities, and collaborations with industry partners worldwide. The program is structured to develop not only technical expertise but also soft skills such as teamwork, project management, and intercultural communication, equipping graduates to thrive in diverse cultural settings and international work environments. Practical training through internships, project work, and laboratory exercises ensures that students acquire hands-on experience aligned with current industry standards. Furtwangen University’s strong connections with companies across various sectors provide students with valuable networking opportunities and pathways to employment after graduation. The interdisciplinary approach encourages innovative thinking and problem-solving abilities, preparing students to contribute effectively to technological developments and sustainability initiatives. Upon completion of the International Engineering program, graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in industries such as automotive, renewable energy, information technology, and manufacturing, both within Germany and internationally. They are also prepared for advanced studies or research roles to further deepen their expertise. The program’s unique combination of technical knowledge, international orientation, and practical experience makes it an excellent choice for students seeking a stimulating career in engineering with a global perspective.

Educational organisation

During the first two semesters, students' knowledge in applied sciences and mathematics is brought to a common level. Additionally, principles of engineering or medical engineering, management, and intercultural competence are communicated, complemented by language lessons in English and either Spanish, Chinese or French.

The next five semesters, which includes the internship semester and study semester abroad, combine classical contents of the profession of an engineer, broad knowledge in international management, and sound knowledge of the respective language. Therefore, students gain experience and detailed knowledge in the following areas: CAD, construction, electrical engineering, electronics, measurement and control engineering, project management, production engineering, factory planning, labs and implementations, traineeship, international management, regional and cultural studies, and economics.

All fields include lectures, practical training, and project work.

Study abroad unit(s)

As a mandatory part of the IEB programme, students will spend one semester studying without fees at one of our partner universities in a country of their regional focus. Extensive support and information is available to assist students in choosing and organising their stay abroad.

Internships

A mandatory internship of 95 working days is to be completed during the sixth semester. While you will be able to select the internship positions that best suit your wishes and requirements (within certain rules), support and detailed information will be given as part of the programme well before the start of the internship semester.

Forms of assessment

ECTS credits may be earned through a combination of the following: exams, term papers, presentations, and practical assignments. A Bachelor's thesis and an oral exam complete the programme. ECTS credits are awarded for all modules.

Course objectives

The following programme will qualify students to work internationally as engineers:

Supervision of projects abroad

• Design and commissioning of production systems

On-site support of agencies abroad

• Production management
• Support of staff
• Management of suppliers

Support of partner companies abroad

• Technical consulting
• International procurement

Language requirements

You will need to have excellent knowledge of German. (Please check with the ASK for details.)
Additionally, excellent English skills are required.

Depending on the regional focus you choose, you will also need the following language skills:
Francophone focus: two years of French at school or comparable level (A1/A2)
Hispanic focus: two years of Spanish at school or comparable level (A1/A2)
Chinese focus: no previous knowledge required

Required DSH / TestDaF

Yes

Academic requirements

Abitur, Fachhochschulreife, or comparable international qualifications (For details, please check with the ASK.)

Admission into the International Engineering programme is limited. Admission is based both on grades and on an additional process involving a range of selection criteria.

Applicants must submit all required information stated in the application form, including officially certified copies of original and translated certificates. This certification must be done by the German Embassy in your country and it is important that every certificate submitted carries the official stamp of the German Embassy. Should there be any problems or questions regarding your qualifications, we will notify you.

Enrolment fees

Students have to pay a semester contribution to the student social funds and a contribution to administrative costs. Currently, this integrated fee is 120 EUR per semester.

Costs of living

Student organisations estimate that the cost of living will be approx. 680 EUR per month, depending on individual needs and expectations.

This includes:
250-300 EUR per month for accommodation
65 EUR per month for mandatory health insurance in Germany

Job opportunities

According to the conditions of your visa and your residence permit, you will primarily be expected to use your time in Germany for your studies.

This means that you are normally not allowed to work. However, there is an exception that allows you to work for no more than 90 full days or 180 half days per year. Thus, you could take a holiday job if the job market allows for it.

Normally, a limited number of student assistant jobs are available within the faculty or university, which may not be subject to this rule. You should check notice boards for these, especially at the beginning of the semester.

Funding opportunities within the university

Fee waivers may be available to students demonstrating academic excellence.

Arrival support

The HFU Business School's International Student Support, together with the International Center, organises an orientation programme for international students in the two weeks prior to the beginning of the winter semester. Most of the administrative issues, which a student new to Germany faces, will be covered in this programme.

International Student Support is also available by phone or e-mail to answer any questions students may have while preparing for their move to Germany.

Services and support for international students

The Business School's own International Student Support coordinator is available for all international students throughout their studies at Furtwangen University. We aim to help our students with all questions and problems they may face. These may include the following: finding accommodation, acquiring residence and work permits, receiving assistance with language-related problems, etc.

Accommodation

The HFU Business School offers support in finding accommodation in Schwenningen for
successful international applicants to the IEB programme.

The students will receive detailed information packs once they have received their letters of acceptance.

For student accommodation in Schwenningen, the cost for a room in a student residence or a one-room flat range from 250-300 EUR per month including extra charges.