Study Engineering in Germany
Contents
Are you passionate about engineering and dream of studying in a country known for its excellence and technological innovation worldwide? If so, Germany is waiting for you to start your academic career here! A country that combines expertise, innovation, and years of know-how in engineering is an ideal place for engineering enthusiasts and students alike. With a variety of programs to choose from, studying engineering in Germany has never been easier.
Int. Study Programs
Universities
Cities
Why Is Germany a Good Destination To Study Engineering?
Studying in Germany is a big decision, especially if you're coming from far away, but there are plenty of benefits. It's a great place to grow academically and professionally in a supportive environment.
- Germany is home to some of the best Engineering schools and universities globally, such as Technische Universität München (TUM), RWTH Aachen University, and Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT).
- Most public universities in Germany don’t charge tuition fees for undergraduates and many postgraduates, including those in Engineering.
- The country is renowned for its automotive industry, which is home to giants like Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. Engineering students often have opportunities to work in these companies, allowing them to get hands-on experience with the latest technologies.
- With a big presence in robotics and automation, Germany is a good place for Engineering students to work with robotic systems and smart technologies that are transforming industries around the globe.
- Germany is strategically located in Europe, serving as a hub for engineering and manufacturing. This makes it a great place for engineering students to find internships and jobs in Germany and all over Europe.
- Students can work on innovative projects as Germany invests heavily in research and development. Institutions such as the Fraunhofer Society and the Max Planck Institutes are leaders in engineering research.
English-Taught Engineering Studies in Germany
While many engineering programs in Germany are offered in English, especially at the master’s level, learning German can significantly enhance your experience. Knowing the language not only aids in your studies and social interactions but also opens up more opportunities. Although an increasing number of engineering programs are now available in English, learning the language can help you better understand the culture.
Many universities offer German language courses (Studienkolleg or Sprachkurs) to help students brush up on their language skills before starting their degree programs.
Here's a list of German universities that offer Engineering programs taught in English:
University | Programs (examples) |
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Technical University of Munich (TUM)
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RWTH Aachen University
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Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)
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Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin)
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University of Stuttgart
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Dresden University of Technology (TU Dresden)
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University of Freiburg
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Technical University of Darmstadt
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Leibniz University Hannover
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Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH)
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University of Applied Sciences Munich
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Bremen University of Applied Sciences
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Jacobs University Bremen
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University of Duisburg-Essen
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University of Paderborn
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Best Engineering Universities in Germany
What Kind of German Engineering Degrees Are Available?
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) or Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.)
These undergraduate programs give you a solid foundation in engineering principles and practices. You'll take courses in math, physics, and specific engineering disciplines (like Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Civil Engineering). The Bachelor of Engineering is more hands-on, while the Bachelor of Science often leans toward the more theoretical side of things.
- Duration: 3 to 4 years
- Outcome: Prepares you for entry-level engineering positions or further study in advanced degrees.
Master of Science (M.Sc.) or Master of Engineering (M.Eng.)
Master’s programs allow students to specialize in a particular area of engineering. The M.Sc. is usually more research-focused and is a good choice for students planning to pursue a Ph.D. or a career in research. The M.Eng. is designed for students who want to enter the workforce and is more geared towards developing the technical and practical skills needed for industry.
- Duration: 5 to 2 years
- Outcome: Teaches students specialized knowledge they'll need for higher-level professional roles or academic research careers.
Choose From The Top Master's Courses in Engineering in Germany
Doctor of Engineering (Dr.-Ing.) or PhD in Engineering
These are the highest academic degrees for engineers, focusing on in-depth research. You'll write and submit a dissertation based on original research in your chosen field of engineering. The Dr.-Ing. is highly respected in Germany and designed to help create new innovations and technological advances.
- Duration: 3 to 5 years
- Outcome: Graduates are ready for careers in academic and research institutions and high-level industry positions. Many of them lead research teams, develop new technologies, or teach at universities.
Engineering-Related Studies for International Students in Germany
Mechanical Engineering
Germany is known for its top-notch Mechanical Engineering, with companies like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Siemens leading the way. If you're fascinated by machines, engines, and the inner workings of mechanical systems, this is the path for you.
- Focus: Design, analysis, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems.
- Applications: Automotive, aerospace, energy systems, machinery.
- Key Topics: Thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, mechanical design.
- Career Paths: Automotive engineer, aerospace engineer, mechanical designer, HVAC engineer.
Electrical Engineering
This field is all about harnessing the power of electricity and electronics, which is necessary in our technology-driven world. Whether it's renewable energy, robotics, or telecommunications, Electrical Engineering opens up a world of possibilities.
- Focus: Study and application of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism.
- Applications: Power generation and distribution, telecommunications, consumer electronics.
- Key Topics: Circuit analysis, signal processing, control systems, electromagnetics.
- Career Paths: Electrical engineer, control systems engineer, telecommunications engineer, power systems engineer.
Computer Science / Informatics
In today’s digital age, Computer Science is a crucial field with endless opportunities. Germany has some of the best programs for aspiring computer scientists.
- Focus: Designing and developing software and IT systems.
- Applications: Software development, data analysis, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity.
- Key Topics: Software development, data science, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, network engineering.
- Career Paths: Software developer, data analyst, AI specialist, cybersecurity expert, IT consultant.
FAQ
What are the language requirements to study Engineering in Germany?
If you're enrolling in a German-taught program, you'll need to show that you can speak German. The most common tests are:
- TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache): This test is widely accepted by German universities. You typically need a TDN 4 or 5 in all four sections (Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking).
- DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang): The DSH exam is administered by German universities. Most programs require a DSH-2 or DSH-3 level.
- Goethe-Zertifikat: B2 or C1 levels are often required, depending on the university and program.
- telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule: This is another accepted test for university admission.
To get into the English-taught Engineering programs in Germany, you need to show that you can speak and write English well. The tests that are usually accepted are:
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Many universities require a minimum score of 80-100 on the internet-based test (iBT).
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System): An overall band score of 6.0-7.0 is typically required.
- Cambridge English Qualifications: Certificates such as C1 Advanced (formerly CAE) or C2 Proficiency (formerly CPE) are often accepted.
What are the visa requirements for students?
If you're from the EU, you don't need a visa to study Engineering in Germany. Just register at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) once you arrive.
If you're from a non-EU country, you'll need a visa. There are two main types:
- Student Applicant Visa: This is for students who haven't been accepted by a university yet. It lets you enter Germany and complete the application process. It's usually valid for 3 months but you can extend it to 6 months.
- Student Visa: Once you've got your acceptance letter from a university, you can apply for a Student Visa. This visa is initially valid for 3 months.
Once you've made it to Germany, you'll need to apply for a residence permit at the local foreigners' registration office. Make sure you bring your passport, visa, photos, proof of university enrollment, proof of financial resources, proof of health insurance and rental contract.
Can international students work in Germany post-graduation?
Once you've finished your studies, you can apply for an 18-month job search visa. This lets you stay in Germany and look for a job related to your field of study. During these 18 months, you can take up any kind of employment to support yourself while you search for a job that matches your qualifications.
As soon as you've found a job, you can apply for the EU Blue Card which allows highly-skilled workers to reside in the EU. To qualify, you need a job offer with a minimum salary of around € 56,800 per year (lower for certain in-demand professions such as engineers where the threshold is around € 44,304 per year). You can apply for permanent residence in Germany after holding an EU Blue Card for 33 months (or 21 months if you have B1-level German language skills).
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