Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering at FH Aachen is a comprehensive and practice-oriented degree program designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills required to innovate, design, analyze, and manufacture machines and mechanical systems. The program emphasizes a solid foundation in engineering sciences, including mathematics, physics, and materials science, combined with in-depth instruction in mechanical design, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, control systems, and manufacturing technologies. Throughout the course of study, students engage in hands-on projects, laboratory work, and internships that connect theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, fostering problem-solving abilities and technical creativity.

The curriculum is structured to enable students to understand the entire lifecycle of mechanical systems—from conceptual design and development to manufacturing and maintenance. Specializations or elective modules may allow students to focus on cutting-edge areas such as automation, robotics, energy systems, or sustainable technologies, aligning their studies with current industry trends. FH Aachen also emphasizes internationalization and intercultural competence, offering opportunities for exchange semesters and collaborative projects with partner universities worldwide.

Upon graduation, students are prepared for diverse careers in industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, manufacturing, and automation. They possess the technical expertise, innovative mindset, and teamwork skills necessary to tackle complex engineering challenges and contribute to technological advancement. The program's strong ties to industry partners and research institutions ensure that students benefit from practical insights, networking opportunities, and a smooth transition into the professional world. Overall, the Mechanical Engineering program at FH Aachen aims to develop versatile engineers capable of shaping the future of technology through sustainable and efficient mechanical solutions.

Educational organisation

During the first three semesters, students focus on basic sciences and engineering courses. Starting in the fourth semester, students focus on their specialisation. Each student is assigned a mentor upon enrolment.
In the sixth semester, each student conducts the research for a practical project in addition to the Bachelor's thesis.

Study abroad unit(s)

It is possible to spend a semester at a partner institution of higher education, either in Germany or abroad. The FH Aachen has over 100 partner universities. We strongly encourage German students to spend a semester abroad. However, due to visa restrictions, this is not always possible for international students.

Internships

Students are required to complete an eight-week internship related to their field of study before enrolment.
The purpose of the internship is to give students practical experience in their chosen field and to expose them to a working environment.

Forms of assessment

There are three periods of written exams each year: February/March, July and September.
The degree programme concludes with a Bachelor's thesis, which the student presents in a colloquium.

Course objectives

Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering with a strong practical focus in six semesters.
Well-qualified students may continue on to a Master's programme at our university or another institution, such as our "Master of Science in Energy Systems" or "Master of Science in Mechatronics." Other students find jobs in industry or research.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their German and English skills.
English: IELTS 4.5 or TOEFL iBT 53
German: level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

Required DSH / TestDaF

Yes

Academic requirements

German entrance qualification for universities of applied sciences or equivalent (http://anabin.kmk.org)
Eight weeks of required internship must be completed before enrolment.
Many international students do not fulfil these requirements, but can qualify through the "Freshman Year" (http://www.fh-aachen.de/en/university/freshman/).

Enrolment fees

The student activity fee is currently about 250 EUR per semester.

Costs of living

Approx. 700 EUR per month, including mandatory health insurance
The semester ticket (included in the student activity fee) includes free use of public transportation in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Job opportunities

Applicants should not count on financing their stay in Jülich or Aachen by working part-time during their studies; however, some students are successful in finding part-time jobs either at the university or elsewhere.

Arrival support

Assistance for new students upon arrival includes help with enrolment procedures, new student orientation, and an intensive German language course before the beginning of the semester.

Services and support for international students

Assistance with cultural and social issues, as well as academic advising and tutoring are available.

Accommodation

Some students live in student dormitories. Other students generally live in shared apartments in which each student has his or her own room. Living areas, bathrooms, and cooking facilities are shared. Furnished rooms start at about 275 EUR per month plus about 75 EUR per month for electricity, water, and heating. Most rooms require the first month's rent and a security deposit of one to three months' rent in advance before you can move into the room. If the room is in good condition when you move out, your security deposit will be returned.
International students can place their names on a waiting list for the student dormitories after they have arrived in Jülich and are enrolled.