Microelectronics and Microsystems

Microelectronics has not only triggered the enormous growth in information and communication technologies, but it has also become an important factor in many other areas. In recent years, technologies originally developed for microelectronics have been applied increasingly to the fabrication of miniaturised systems in electromechanical, electrooptical, analytical or biomedical applications. The new discipline is called microsystem technology. Future development will certainly result in the integration of microsystem components with microelectronic devices. In order to be able to cope with this challenge, the Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH) has introduced an innovative Master's programme in Microelectronics and Microsystems which combines both aspects.
The standard duration of the course is two years. In the first year, students take part in lectures, exercises and laboratory work. A project and a subject-specific seminar or a process design course take place in the third semester. The course is completed with a six-month Master's thesis in the fourth semester.
The technological challenges of modern society and the requirements of the globalised labour market call for an excellent engineering education as well as for a sound additional qualification in the fields of business and management, soft skills and humanities. Therefore, the international Master's degree courses at TUHH include a minimum number of non-technical compulsory elective courses.

Educational organisation

Teaching the methodology and logic of engineering - "learning to think" - is a key aspect of studies at TUHH. Only in this way can one acquire the knowledge to keep pace with rapid technological change. This sound theoretical foundation is rounded off by a well-balanced mixture of practical application in internships, projects and thesis work. It should be noted that students at TUHH are trained to think and decide for themselves, to learn and work independently as well as in international teams representing many different academic, national and cultural backgrounds. TUHH promotes interdisciplinary research, teaching and learning. Students will be integrated into research and development projects at an early stage; this facilitates a smooth transition to working life.

Study abroad unit(s)

One semester abroad, strongly recommended for German students, optional for students of foreign nationality

Internships

Students are encouraged to carry out their study project in a company.

Forms of assessment

Lab reports, seminar presentations, oral and written examinations, project work, Master's thesis

Course objectives

The profile of higher engineering education at TUHH focuses on research and application, including practical training in industry. It is characterised by features such as humanism, the Humboldt Principle of unity of research and teaching, and a solid mathematical and scientific foundation. The base of knowledge covers a wide range, and priority is given to knowledge of methodology as opposed to the mere repetition of knowledge. This allows quick adaptation to new fields of technology and new branches of employment. A solid and comprehensive education gives rise to the qualification and personality for a promising professional or academic career.

Language requirements

Proficiency in English (valid TOEFL with a minimum score of 577/90, valid IELTS with a minimum score of 6.5, valid Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English, valid Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English, valid "telc English C1" result or valid "UNIcert English level III" result)

Academic requirements

• Bachelor of Science or equivalent in a relevant subject
• TOEFL score of at least 577/90 or equivalent
• very good previous academic performance

Enrolment fees

The semester contribution of approx. 310 EUR per semester includes an administrative fee as well as a contribution to the Students' Union, the student service organisation, and the student ticket for public transport in Hamburg.

Costs of living

We recommend that single students budget around 800 EUR per month to meet personal expenses (accommodation, living costs, health insurance, etc.).

Job opportunities

In principle, there are opportunities to work part-time as a teaching or research assistant at TUHH. However, such jobs cannot be arranged in advance and from a distance. Since the course schedule is very tight and employment regulations for international students are quite restrictive, students cannot depend on this source of income only.

Funding opportunities within the university

To a limited extent, partial funding in the form of performance-related scholarships, scholarships linked to support work, and scholarships for the final phase of the programme is available for international students at TUHH.
http://www.tuhh.de/alt/tuhh/education/students/financing-your-studies.html

Arrival support

The Students' Union, international students' societies, and student tutors offer guidance to newcomers. An orientation and a preparatory German language course will be offered before the start of the programme.

Services and support for international students

Introductory events, special counselling office, accommodation office, tutorials, language courses, sports and social activities.

Accommodation

The TUHH accommodation office provides advice and assistance regarding accommodation.