Media Technology Programme

The Media Technology Programme at Ilmenau University of Technology offers an interdisciplinary education designed to prepare students for a dynamic and rapidly evolving field at the intersection of media, technology, and communication. The programme combines foundational knowledge in computer science, electrical engineering, and media studies with practical skills in developing, designing, and implementing multimedia systems and applications. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of digital signal processing, media coding, computer graphics, and human-computer interaction, equipping them to innovate in areas such as virtual and augmented reality, multimedia processing, and interactive systems.

The curriculum emphasizes a strong theoretical background paired with hands-on experience through project work, laboratory exercises, and internships. Specialized courses cover topics including multimedia algorithms, real-time systems, audio and video processing, and embedded systems, preparing graduates for careers in media production, software development, and system engineering. Additionally, students have opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects and collaborations with industry partners, enabling them to stay abreast of technological advancements and industry demands.

Ilmenau University of Technology’s Media Technology Programme fosters a multidisciplinary learning environment, encouraging students to develop creative problem-solving skills and innovative approaches to media-related challenges. The programme also emphasizes teamwork, communication, and ethical considerations in technology development, ensuring graduates are well-rounded professionals capable of contributing to the media and technology sectors globally. Graduates of this programme are equipped to pursue careers in media content creation, software engineering, research and development, and further academic pursuits, thereby playing a key role in shaping the future of digital media and communication technologies.

Educational organisation

The programme offers a great variety of interdisciplinary fields of specialisation and will be completed in only three semesters:

• First semester: modules
• Second semester: modules and media project, in which students can apply their new knowledge and inspirations
• Third semester: Master's thesis (independent work on a research project)

The finalisation of the Master's thesis will allow students to enter a subsequent PhD programme at the Ilmenau University of Technology.

Study abroad unit(s)

As an integral part of our Master's programme students will have the opportunity to study abroad at one of our partner universities:

• Engineering College of Åarhus, Denmark
• Aalto University, Espoo, Finland
• Département Informatique - Polytech Nantes, France
• Norwegian University of Science and Technology Trondheim, Norway
• Linköpings University, Sweden
• Mataró School of Technology (Catalonia University of Technology), Spain

Course objectives

The goal of this study course is to impart competence for media computer science based on technical knowledge. This competence is essential in order to actively get involved in the global and integrated development of our information society. Therefore the basic knowledge of information technology and new electronic media as well as socio-cultural and economic knowledge combined with practical education is indispensable.

Students learn basics of engineering science as well as basics of computer science, media science and economic science. Based on this knowledge they acquire theoretical and practical knowledge, abilities and skills

• to develop and design media and media production processes
• to develop a decision-making ability and a capacity to act in relation to the development and use of media products and media technologies
• to learn an integrated approach for including media in the social and economic peripherals

International exchange programmes with companies and universities help to strengthen the flexibility of the students.

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 electrical engineering, computer science or computer engineering of at least six semesters (180 credits) from a university; but for the Master's degree you need 300 credits in total.

---

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

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)

Job opportunities

Favoured job opportunities in addition to the study course are:

• research assistant at the university
• research assistant at the Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Media Technology IDMT

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.