International Mechatronics

In the first semester (MM1), the students' curriculum varies depending on their first degree. The main purpose of semester MM1 is to balance out differences in skills and knowledge resulting from students' previous programmes. Therefore, individual course programmes and timetables are compiled for each student.

The second semester (MM2) covers specific mechatronics-related subjects such as robotics, automation, control design as well as laboratory training. In addition, the students have to carry out a scientific project in an international team. This project aims to consolidate the students' theoretical knowledge and to enhance their ability to put theory into practice. Undertaken in international teams, the project also furthers intercultural skills, which are considered to be an essential aspect of the programme as a whole.

The third semester (MM3) is mainly dedicated to the Master's thesis. Due to the international orientation of the programme, international students should complete their thesis in Germany. It must be written in English and presented publicly at the university. The Master's thesis can be done either at the University of Applied Sciences Ravensburg-Weingarten, at a partner university abroad or - if the project allows - at a company or a research institute.

For more information, please visit our homepage at http://www.hs-weingarten.de/web/masterstudiengang-mechatronics.

Educational organisation

Prior to the beginning of lectures: intensive German language course (September)

First semester (MM1)

• Advanced Mathematics for Engineers
• Electrical Drives
• Engineering Design and Materials
• Engineering Mechanics
• Power Electronics
• Process Interface Equipment
• Simulation of Mechatronic Systems
• Social Competence: German as a foreign language, Intercultural Sensitisation (one-day seminar)
• Optional Module: PLC Programming

Second semester (MM2)

• Automation
• Advanced Control Engineering (ACE)
• Lab on ACE
• Embedded Computing
• Integration of Mechatronic Systems
• Robotics
• Lab on Robotics
• Lab on Process Interface Equipment
• Scientific Project
• Working in International Scientific Project Teams (2-day seminar)
• German as a foreign language
• Optional Modules (e.g.):
  • Systems analysis with LabVIEW
  • Research Project

Third semester (MM3)

• Master's thesis

Study abroad unit(s)

German students should write their Master's thesis outside Germany. This can be done at one of our partner universities or - if the project allows - at a company or a research institute abroad.

Internships

Not applicable

Forms of assessment

• Written examinations (60 or 90 minutes), oral examinations in exceptional cases only
• For labs, projects, and the Master's thesis, written report and/or personal presentation

Course objectives

Solutions for complex technical systems usually require contributions from several different engineering disciplines. This Master's programme aims to train graduates with an engineering background in the relevant complementary topics needed for the development of an increasing range of advanced mechatronic products.

Typical employment areas for mechatronics engineers are in research or in the development, production and maintenance of integrated mechatronic systems. Products such as intelligent sensors, autonomous robots or high precision mechanical devices are booming fields of industrial applications and increase the demand for graduates of the Mechatronics programme.

An important field for mechatronics research and application are hybrids and electrical drives in passenger cars and bicycles.

To summarise, engineers with a Master's degree in Mechatronics can improve their job prospects significantly for the following three reasons:

• Interdisciplinary proficiency through individually composed and targeted study plans based on the first degree (Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Physics, etc.)
• Intercultural and language competence thanks to the international orientation of the programme
• Recognition of the MSc degree as a basis for consecutive PhD studies with partner universities and institutes

Language requirements

Very good knowledge of the English language, minimum requirements: TOEFL iBT 70 or IELTS Band 6.0

Academic requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Applied Physics or Computer Science with a minimum of 210 ECTS credits. Graduates from three-year Bachelor programmes (180 ECTS credits) can be considered provided they meet additional requirements.

60% of the places available will be allocated on the basis of the GRE Revised General Test results. This means that only applicants that have taken the GRE test will be considered for this quota.

40% of the places available will be allocated on the basis of the final grade of the Bachelor's degree as well as the results in mathematics and other relevant subjects. Applicants who at the time of application have not yet obtained the Bachelor's degree will be ranked according to their current GPA. The final grade or the GPA, respectively, can be improved by providing proof of relevant work experience or research activities.

Enrolment fees

147.50 EUR per semester

Costs of living

In order to obtain a visa for Germany, international students must prove that they have a minimum of 735 EUR per month at their disposal (minimum 8,820 EUR per year). The same financial requirements apply for an extension of the residence permit approx. one year after the student's arrival. Monthly rent in dormitories amounts to approx. 300 EUR. Contribution to health insurance, which is compulsory in Germany, amounts to approx. 82 EUR per month.

Job opportunities

Foreign students registered at universities in Germany can take on jobs without an approval requirement provided that this work does not exceed 120 full days or 240 half days in total in a calendar year. Jobs as research or student assistants can also be performed without an approval requirement and without any time limits.
However, finding jobs in companies or at the university is not easy. Applicants should also be aware of the fact that university studies are highly demanding and might not allow enough time to take on a job at the same time. International students should therefore not plan to finance their stay in Germany by earning money while studying.

Funding opportunities within the university

In their final year of study, students in need of support can apply for a so-called Matching Funds Scholarship (details: International Office).

Arrival support

Senior students help newcomers on arrival (Buddy Programme, see below). Other formalities are dealt with in the Welcome and Orientation Programme organised by the International Office (second week of September), see below.

Services and support for international students

• Buddy Programme: Senior students, both German and international, help newcomers on arrival and throughout the semester. The so-called "buddies" are ready to answer questions even before the new students arrive.
• One-week Welcome and Orientation Programme in September: Dealing with formalities (registration at the university and in the community, health insurance, bank account, computer accounts, etc.) and exploring the region
• German language courses: Two weeks intensive course in September, 2-4 hours/week during the lecture period, both at different levels
• Welcome Brochure: Relevant information regarding studying and student life for all new international students
• Numerous one- or two-day excursions throughout the semester
• International events at the university
• Brother and Sister Programme: International students meet German citizens
• Support with respect to health insurance and foreigners' authority
• Continuous information on events, programmes, seminars, scholarships, laws, and other news relevant to international students

Contact: Ms Ramona Herrmann, ramona.herrmann@hs-weingarten.de

Accommodation

Accommodation is mainly provided and organised by the organisations "Seezeit Studentenwerk Bodensee" and "Weiße Rose e.V.", which run dormitories in Weingarten and Ravensburg. After having been awarded a place at Ravensburg-Weingarten University of Applied Sciences, students have to reserve rooms directly and without delay.
However, there is no guarantee for a room in a dormitory. As to other housing options, please see http://www.hs-weingarten.de/en/web/international-office/accommodation.