Master of Science (M.Sc.)

Study Mechanical Engineering

As a universal engineering discipline, mechanical engineering generates technical solutions in many areas, including for important future issues relating to energy, the environment, digitalisation and mobility. Mechanical engineers develop simulation-supported solutions, from ideation through to technical implementation, e.g. energy plants and production machines.

application info
Zwei Studenten im LFW bei der Arbeit an einem Gerät
Foto: Andreas Ellermeier / OTH Regensburg

Content

What is the Master's in Mechanical Engineering all about?

How can cable cars be used as environmentally-friendly and highly efficient means of transport in cities?
How can solar energy also be used at night with the help of innovative energy storage systems?
How can we map machines, plants or entire factories with a digital twin and thereby predict their behaviour?

As broad-based all-rounders, mechanical engineers deal with a wide range of issues. They develop tailor-made technical solutions for key future questions, for example with regard to climate, the environment and mobility.

During the Master's degree, our students deepen and expand the foundational, specialist and method-oriented knowledge acquired in the Bachelor's programme. They will learn to utilise scientific methods to answer questions from professional practice. In addition, they will continue to develop their social and methodological skills and will be prepared to take on positions with management responsibility in their future careers.

The Master of Mechanical Engineering also offers students the greatest possible freedom:

At the beginning of their degree, they choose one of the the two specialisations "Team Research Project" and "Individual Research Project", according to their personal style of working and later career goals. Students in the team specialisation work together over two semesters on a broad research and development project. Students in the individual specialisation, on the other hand, work individually on a specific scientific topic within the framework of two research and development theses.

Students in both specialisations are free to choose their modules from two catalogues: "Enhanced Foundational Modules" and "Advanced Modules".

In this way, students are able to shape their own timetables, according to their personal interests.

Further information on the content of both specialisations can be found below under "Structure and Modules".

Zwei Studenten im Labor Strömungsmaschinen vor einer Simulation am Bildschirm
Foto: Andreas Ellermeier / OTH Regensburg

Strengths of the degree programme

Study with the best

OTH Regensburg is Bavaria's best university for mechanical engineering! This is according to the university ranking published in May 2022 by the Centre for Higher Education (CHE), in which students evaluate their study environment. In 13 categories, the Mechanical Engineering degree was placed among the top universities in Germany.

Career opportunities

What are my career prospects as a mechanical engineer?

Your Master's degree is complete - and now what? Do you want to jump straight into professional life or perhaps pursue a doctorate?

Information on the follow-up options is summarised here:

  • With a Master's degree in their pocket, our graduates are qualified for demanding positions and leadership roles in industrial companies.

    Mechanical engineers from Regensburg enjoy an excellent reputation both regionally and nationally. They currently have good career and promotion prospects and will remain sought-after specialists in the future, partly due to demographic changes and the emergence of new fields of business.

    Since mechanical engineering has many facets, our graduates work in a wide variety of industries:

    • Energy and air-conditioning technology
    • Agricultural engineering
    • Food technology
    • Aviation, aerospace, shipping
    • Automotive engineering
    • Plant construction and production engineering
    • AI, robotics and digital factories

    Graduates also work in the following fields:

    • Research and development
    • Engineering design
    • Calculation and simulation
    • Product management

    Employment can be found in a wide variety of companies, ranging from young start-ups or family-run SMEs to large global players. Interesting jobs can also be found in engineering offices and the public sector. Graduates with an entrepreneurial spirit are ideally equipped to found their own start-ups.


  • Outstanding graduates of the Master's programme in Mechanical Engineering have the opportunity to complete a doctorate directly at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering (cooperative or joint). Further information: Doctoral Studies at the OTH Regensburg.

    Alternatively, Master's students can start work as research assistants with an accompanying doctorate in renowned research institutions, such as the Fraunhofer Institute.


Zwei Studenten während dem Unterricht vor einer Simulation am Bildschirm
Foto: Andreas Ellermeier / OTH Regensburg

Structure and modules

How is the degree programme structured?

The Master's in Mechanical Engineering is designed as a full-time programme comprising three theoretical semesters. At the beginning of the programme, students choose a specialisation: "Team Research Project" or "Individual Research Project". The degree may be shaped according to individual preferences by selecting appropriate modules from the "Enhanced Foundational Modules" and "Advanced Modules" module catalogues.

  • The first two semesters focus on enhanced foundational modules and advanced modules, as well as a research and development project. 30 ECTS credits should be earned in each of the two semesters. The students develop a broad professional background and subsequently have every opportunity to take up a responsible position in industry. In addition, they can pursue a doctorate in any subject area.

    Enhanced foundational modules:

    Students select a total of four modules - entirely according to their personal interests. The following modules are offered:

    • Drive Technology
    • Finite Element Method
    • Engineering Design
    • Material Science
    • Multi Body Dynamics
    • Numerical Methods
    • Numberical Fluid Mechanics
    • Numerical Heat Transfer

    Advanced modules:

    To further sharpen their personal profiles, our students take six in-depth modules. These can also be chosen freely:

    • Advanced Thermodynamics
    • Aerospace Technology
    • Alternative Energy Systems
    • Calculation Methods of Lightweight-Structures
    • Computer-Aided Manufacturing
    • Vehicle Aerodynamics
    • Fundamentals of Systems Engineering
    • Polymer Engineering in Automotive
    • Multivariable Control Systems
    • Modelling and Simulation of Combustion Engines
    • Real Component Material States
    • Simulation of Road Vehicles
    • Thermofluid Dynamics

    Research and development project: The research and development project lasts two semesters. Students work in small teams on a variety of projects, for example the development of a cable car concept or the industrial use of augmented reality. The module allows students gain experience in project management and practice using a methodical approach to solve complex problems.

    (For further information, see the download area: Study and Examination Regulations, Curriculum and Module Handbook. Note: The module catalogues for the selection of the enhanced foundational and advanced modules are identical for both specialisations).


  • The first two semesters focus on enhanced foundational modules and advanced modules, as well as two research and development theses. 30 ECTS credits should be earned in each of the two semesters.

    Through the two R&D theses and the Master's thesis, students consistently focus on a specific subject area throughout the entire degree programme. Therefore, selecting this specialisation offers the ideal preparation for completing a doctorate in this field or taking on a senior professional role.

    Enhanced foundational modules:

    Students select a total of four modules - entirely according to their personal interests. The following modules are offered:

    • Drive Technology
    • Finite Element Method
    • Engineering Design
    • Material Science
    • Multi Body Dynamics
    • Numerical Methods
    • Numberical Fluid Mechanics
    • Numerical Heat Transfer

    Advanced modules:

    To further sharpen their personal profile, our students take four in-depth modules. These can also be chosen freely:

    • Advanced Thermodynamics
    • Aerospace Technology
    • Alternative Energy Systems
    • Calculation Methods of Lightweight-Structures
    • Computer-Aided Manufacturing
    • Vehicle Aerodynamics
    • Fundamentals of Systems Engineering
    • Polymer Engineering in Automotive
    • Multivariable Control Systems
    • Modelling and Simulation of Combustion Engines
    • Real Component Material States
    • Simulation of Road Vehicles
    • Thermofluid Dynamics

    Research and Development Theses I and II:

    In the first two semesters, our students work on two research and development theses in addition to the enhanced foundational and advanced modules. In contrast to the Team Research Project specialisation, students work individually. Both the two R&D theses and the Master's thesis deal with the same scientific topic, i.e. the Master's thesis is a continuation of the previous research.

    (For further information, see the download area: Study and Examination Regulations, Curriculum and Module Handbook. Note: The module catalogues for the selection of the enhanced foundational and advanced modules are identical for both specialisations).


  • Both specialisations conclude with the Master's thesis, which may be written in cooperation with a company. The thesis is usually completed in six months. A total of 30 ECTS credits are allocated for the Master's thesis and presentation.

    On the Final Theses in the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering webpage you will find a database with open research topics, application forms for registration and an information sheet from the faculty with important information.


Studies and organisational matters

So that everything runs smoothly

When and where do lectures take place? Which legal regulations must be observed? And how can I finance my studies?

Answers to these and other questions about the Master's in Mechanical Engineering can be found here.

  • Lectures take place on the main campus of the OTH Regensburg in the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering buildings:

    Building A-C
    Galgenbergstraße 30
    93053 Regensburg

     


  • Successfully accredited: On 29 July 2019, the Internal Accreditation Commission reaccredited the Master's in Mechanical Engineering (M.Sc.) and conferred the seal of the Accreditation Council. The accreditation is valid until 30 September 2025.


  • Whether to study, complete an internship or write your thesis - the Master's programme also offers opportunities to spend time abroad.

    Comprehensive information on the topic of studying abroad can be found on the webpages of the OTH Regensburg's International Office.

    Our colleagues at the International Office will be happy to answer any further questions. For faculty-specific questions, please contact the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering's International Officer, Prof Dr rer pol Max Singh.


  • SPO, curriculum, module handbook and exam handbook - here we explain the documents that govern studying and examinations. The respective valid versions are linked under Downloads (see right).

    The legal basis: The Study and Examination Regulations (SPO)

    The Study and Examination Regulations (SPO) form the legal basis for the Master's in Mechanical Engineering. Among other things, they contain information on:

    • Study objective
    • Qualification requirements, proof of aptitude
    • Programme structure, standard period of study
    • Modules and assessments
    • Master's thesis
    • Interpreting the examination results and the overall grade
    • Certificate and academic degree
    • Overview of modules, assessments and credits

    The overview: The curriculum (Studienverlaufsplan)

    This document contains an overview of all modules, the respective number of semester hours per week and ECTS credits. It serves as a guide for semester planning and subject allocation.

    The modules in detail: The module handbook

    The module handbook lists all the modules (subjects) in the degree programme with comprehensive information on on content and learning objectives as well as: form of teaching, lecturers, teaching materials, assessments, permitted aids.

    Exams in focus: The exam handbook (Studienplan)

    This document provides information on the subject of examinations. Among other things, it contains information on: - Type and duration of examinations - First and second examiners - Permitted aids


Application info

For more details about the admission requirements, please switch the website language to German.

1. Please register in the OTH Regensburg application portal. It is not necessary to register with “Hochschulstart” for this degree programme.

2. The application process is entirely online. Please complete the online application and upload all required application documents.

3. Make sure you regularly check your status in the application portal. Here you can also see whether any documents are still missing. These documents must be submitted by the end of the deadline.

4. You will automatically receive email notifications via the application portal when your application status changes.

5. After your application has been processed, you will receive an e-mail with further information from the Admissions and Organisation Office of the OTH Regensburg as confirmation of receipt.

 

6.  If all application documents have been received within the application deadline and are valid, you will receive an e-mail with further information after the examination committee has checked the documents. Please note that it is no longer possible to apply after the application deadline.

7. So what comes next? You can find all the information you need in the section under "Admissions and enrolment".

 

Für ein Wintersemester:

Bewerbungsfrist: 01.05. - 31.05.

Für ein Sommersemester:

Bewerbungsfrist: 15.11. - 15.12.

1. Please register in the application portal of OTH Regensburg .

2. You can now select the programme you want to apply for. Please go through the steps of the application, read the information carefully and upload the required documents when prompted. If you are applying for a higher semester, the most important documents are your university entrance qualification (for details please also check the tab „International“), certificates of language proficiency, official transcripts of records showing the courses you already completed, as well as a completed and signed application for credit recognition. Additional documents will be pointed out in the application portal.

Important!
You should only apply for a higher semester if you have already completed at least one semester in a similar university degree in terms of academic level (Bachelor’s or Master’s degree) and field of study. If you are currently enrolled in your first semester at university, you should not apply for a higher semester because you will most likely not receive your exam results before our application deadline (we do not accept any documents after the deadline).

To assess whether you have already completed creditable work, you should first read the study and examination regulations of the programme you wish to study, in particular which courses and modules are included in the curriculum. Further details of course content can be found in the programme’s module handbook. You can find these documents on the OTH Regensburg programme website. If you believe that you have already completed courses that are equivalent in terms of content and workload to courses from the programme’s curriculum at OTH Regensburg, you can make a proposal for recognition to the Admissions Board by listing these courses in the application for credit transfer. You also need to submit transcripts of records. Please combine these with course or module descriptions from your previous university. Instead of uploading the complete module handbooks, you should only upload the module descriptions of the courses you have completed. If the courses were taken at OTH Regensburg, module descriptions are not required. If you would be interested in studying the programme in the first semester as well, you should apply separately for the first semester (different deadlines or requirements may apply).

3. Please check the OTH Regensburg application portal regularly for updates on your status or missing documents. If necessary, you can upload any missing documents before the application deadline.

4. As soon as your application has been processed by the Admissions Office, you will receive a confirmation e-mail with additional information. Please note that receiving a confirmation e-mail does not imply that you will also receive admission.

 

5. If all application documents have been received within the application deadline and are valid, you will receive an e-mail with further information after the examination committee has checked the documents. Please note that it is no longer possible to apply after the application deadline. 

6. The examination committee decides on the crediting of academic achievements and whether a placement in a higher semester is possible. This placement is based on the creditable achievements and not on the semesters completed. Please note that there may also be admission restrictions in the admission procedure for higher semesters. 

7. So what comes next? You can find all the information you need in the section under "Admissions and enrolment".

 

 

BACHELOR'S CERTIFICATE

For the application for this Master's degree programme please submit your certificates and diplomas of your home country translated into German or English. The complete Bachelor's certificate with all subjects, the final grade and the grading scale is required. You can find detailed information in the admission requirements.

 

GERMAN LANGUAGE SKILLS

German language skills on level DSH 2 are required. You have to upload your German language certificate either when applying or when enrolling via the online portal.

These certificates are recognized as an alternative to the DSH 2 certificate:

  • TestDaF: TDN 4 in all sections of the exam
  • Studienkolleg: Feststellungsprüfung „Deutsch“
  • DSD: Level II with C1 in all sections of the exam
  • Goethe: C2
  • telc: telc Deutsch C2, telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule
  • ÖSD: C2
  • UNIcert® Deutsch III

If you need a visa to study in Germany, you should look into the visa procedure and (if necessary) register on the waitlist as soon as possible. Depending on your country, receiving a visa appointment can take a long time. On the other hand, our admission letters are only valid for one semester and admission cannot be deferred.

You can find more information for prospective international students (on visas or other issues) on the web pages of the International Office.

Admission and enrolment

After the Master Commission has checked your documents, you will receive an admission or rejection notice by e-mail.
If you receive admission, you can immediately accept the place of study online in the application portal and upload the enrolment documents.
Enrolment generally takes place in August for a winter semester or in February for a summer semester.
 

Important information for online enrolment

Semester fee

The application for enrolment ("Antrag auf Immatrikulation") will include information about the current semester fee and the transfer details.

Documents

The following documents must normally be uploaded for online enrolment at the university:

  • Signed application for enrolment ("Antrag auf Immatrikulation") along with other documents required, depending on the individual case. You will receive this by e-mail.
  • Signed(declaration of consent regarding data protection (“Einwilligungserklärung zum Datenschutz”). You will receive this together with the application for enrolment.
  • Copy of valid identity card/passport
  • Digital notification of health insurance (M10), see the following notes "I would like to enrol. What do I have to do?"

I want to enrol as a student and have to provide proof of health insurance. What do I need to do?

  • If you have chosen public / statutory insurance, please contact your health insurance company and inform them that you are planning to enrol at Ostbayerische Technische Hochschule (OTH) Regensburg. Your health insurance company will then send us a digital notification known as M10. Please note that we cannot accept any insurance membership certificates in PDF or paper form. Our institution number is H0000048 (please provide this to your insurance company if necessary).

    If you have questions about public vs. private insurance, please check the website of the DAAD.


  • If the insurance from your home country is not accepted in Germany and you are over 30 years old, you may have chosen a private health insurance for Germany. In this case, please contact any public health insurance company in Germany with your insurance documents. Please inform them that you would like to enrol at Ostbayerische Technische Hochschule (OTH) Regensburg and remain privately insured. The health insurance company will then send us a digital notification of your exemption from public insurance. Please note that we cannot accept an insurance membership certificate from your private health insurance instead of the exemption. Our institution number is H0000048.

    If you have questions about public vs. private insurance, please check the website of the DAAD.


  • If you are already insured in another EU country, your insurance may be accepted in Germany. If that is the case, you need to apply from exemption from compulsory public insurance. To do that, please contact any public health insurance company in Germany, send them your insurance documents and inform them that you would like to enrol at Ostbayerische Technische Hochschule (OTH) Regensburg. The health insurance company will then send us a digital notification of exemption. Please note that we cannot accept any insurance membership certificates in paper form. Our institution number is H0000048.

    If you are coming from a non-EU country and/or are over 30 years old, you need to take on public or private health insurance which is valid in Germany. The website of the DAAD should help you better understand your options and choose the type of insurance which is best for you. After you have chosen your insurance, please ask your insurance company to send us a digital confirmation message of your insurance, or (if you have chosen private insurance) apply for exemption as instructed above.