Technical Development in Mechanical Engineering (M. Eng.)

How do you optimise a robotic gripper arm using new materials?

The Master’s programme in Technical Development in Mechanical Engineering at THI offers you a highly challenging course of study closely linked to the latest developments in applied research.

In the first semester, you will begin with compulsory modules covering seven specialist disciplines: composite materials, CAE, mechatronics, multi-body systems, structural strength and fracture mechanics. You will also gain an understanding of scientific research methods.

In the second semester, you will focus on lightweight construction as well as corrosion and surface engineering. In addition, you can refine your personal profile through compulsory-elective modules (Adaptive Systems, Acoustics and Gearboxes). You even have the option of spending a semester abroad.
In the third semester, you will focus on writing your Master’s thesis. Upon completion of your degree, you will be well prepared for complex specialist and managerial roles in mechanical engineering. A PhD is also an option.

Degree
Master of Engineering (M. Eng.)
Duration
3 Semester
Start of studies
Summer & Winter
NC
Yes

Accreditation
Yes
Dual Study
Yes
Main teaching language
German

The areas of specialization follow the main objectives of THI and they are in accordance with the specialization areas of the partner universities involved in this program. Advanced theoretical and scientific knowledge qualifies students for doctoral studies or a research career. Furthermore, the program aims to consolidate the analytical and methodological skills and key qualifications of students and to provide them with management know-how and skills.

“Technical Development” is a full-time program which covers three theoretical semesters. The third semester is however reserved for the Master’s thesis. At the beginning of studies, students must choose an area of specialization at Ingolstadt University (Vehicle construction) or at one of its partner universities (at present: Amberg-Weiden University). Students can complete their second semester of specialization at one of the partner universities (article 2, paragraph 1, line 2). The study offer of partner universities is in accordance with their own program and examination regulations.

Curriculum

1. Semester

CAE
5 ECTS

The CAE module covers numerical methods for virtual product development, including mathematical foundations, finite element methods, coupled thermo-mechanical problems, nonlinear simulations, optimisation and applications in structural mechanics.

Corrosion and Surface Technology
5 ECTS

This module introduces corrosion mechanisms and corrosion protection. Topics include electrochemical processes, corrosion testing, material selection, coatings and constructive corrosion prevention.

Composite Materials
5 ECTS

This module introduces the fundamentals and applications of modern fibre-reinforced composites. Topics include material properties, laminate theory, damage mechanisms and design methods for composite structures, complemented by manufacturing processes and practical examples.

Multi-body Systems
5 ECTS

This module covers the kinematics and dynamics of multibody systems, including equations of motion, constraints, Lagrange methods and numerical simulation of mechanical systems.

Fatigue Stability and Fracture Mechanics
5 ECTS

This module focuses on fatigue strength and fracture mechanics. Topics include load spectra, stress analysis and lifetime prediction methods to assess durability and failure behaviour of components.

Scientific Research Methods
5 ECTS

This module focuses on scientific working methods including literature research, theoretical work, simulations or experiments and the structured presentation of scientific results.

2. Semester

Lightweight Design
5 ECTS

This module covers fundamental principles of lightweight design, including structural analysis, plate and shell theory, stability failure and torsion for efficient weight-optimised structures.

Mechatronics
5 ECTS

This module introduces the fundamentals of mechatronic systems, covering sensors, actuators, modelling, control engineering and microcontrollers and their integration.

Adaptive Systems
5 ECTS

This module covers intelligent control and adaptation concepts including fuzzy controllers, neural networks, observers and adaptive control methods.

Acoustics
5 ECTS

This module introduces the physical principles of acoustics, including sound propagation, measurement techniques, absorption, transmission loss and vehicle acoustics.

Transmissions
5 ECTS

This module covers gearbox engineering fundamentals including gearbox concepts, gear calculation, manufacturing, tolerances and typical failure modes.

This module focuses on experimental methods in mechanical engineering, including measurement technology, sensors, signal analysis, statistical design of experiments and hands-on experiments.

Elective Module
5 ECTS

Details of the individual compulsory-elective modules can be found in the programme’s module handbook.

3. Semester

Master's Thesis
30 ECTS

The master’s thesis is the final academic project in which a complex engineering problem is independently analysed, solved and scientifically documented.

Quick Info

Please find all info on master application here.

Applies to applications for summer semester 2027 and beyond

With immediate effect, applicants from India must, in addition to the VDP from uni-assist, provide evidence of having passed the Digital Master Test (dMAT):

https://aps-india.de/

in order to obtain an APS certificate relevant for your visa .

Please check whether this applies to you based on your Bachelor's degree:

Programmes requiring dMAT (pdf)

The test costs 150 €. Registration is now open.

Timetable for applications for the 2027 summer semester:

September 15, 2026: deadline registration for dMAT
September 26, 2026: dMAT test date at 10 locations in India
October 12, 2026: certificate available

Full details can be found at: https://aps-india.de/dmat/

The dual studies programme enables a combination of practical training elements in a company with the theoretical education provided by the university. There is a choice of either the joint model (academic study + vocational training) or the degree course with vocational experience (academic study + intense practical phases). There is an obvious advantage to students here: practically oriented academic study generally enables a particularly smooth transition from university to the world of work. What is more, the student usually receives financial remuneration from the company concerned.

In the joint model, students may start working at the company several months before the start of the first semester, depending on the company concerned. At the start of the course there is an alternation between theory (during the semester) and practical experience (between semesters and during the practical semesters). In order to embark on a dual studies programme, students have to apply to both a company and to THI (be sure to take note of company application deadlines!).

More info on our dual studies-pages, or check dual cooperation partner companies. Even if no partner company is currently active in this degree programme, you are welcome to contact us.

The postgraduate degree course Technical Development in Mechanical Engineering builds on the basis provided by the bachelor’s degree course in Mechanical Engineering and related degree courses. The course gives graduates a wide range of career options. Particular importance is also attached to pursuing the theoretical scientific fundamentals in greater depth, enabling students to embark on a doctorate programme or a career in the scientific field. In particular, the course prepares students for careers in related interdisciplinary areas such as:

Technical development
Testing
Design
Project management

General information on scholarship:

Financing your study programme might be a big challenge for you. On our homepage you find different opportunities of financing your academic studies at our university.
Financial assistance
Please note that financial aid programmes are mostly not open to foreign students. For scholarships for students from abroad you may have a look here:
https://www.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/datenbank/en/12359-finding-scholarships/
Public funding (BAföG) is only available to Germans and to EU citizens if they have spent a considerable part of their education in Germany. The university awards a scholarship called Deutschlandstipendium once a year which cannot fully cover living expenses. Additionally we have limited funds and support some international students for a maximum of one semester. Please do not actively approach the International Office on scholarships, once a year a call for application automatically reaches all international students.
Third party scholarship:
If you are an applicant from abroad, you may qualify for a scholarship from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD): www.daad.de
If you are a German students we recommend to research for suitable scholarships on www.mystipendium.de
Please note that we cannot offer any guidance or support concerning scholarship applications.
We recommend that single students budget at least 700-900 EUR per month to meet personal expenses (accommodation, health insurance, stay, books, semester contribution)

The course is held in German, so fluent German with level C1 is a pre-requisite.

Contact options for prospective students

Apply online

Programme director and Academic Advisor

Vice dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jörg Bienert
Phone: +49 841 9348-7720
Room: A216
E-Mail: Joerg.Bienert@thi.de

Module Handbook

The module handbook contains information on prerequisites, contents, learning outcomes, ECTS points, duration, work load, literature, references of the offered modules and lectures.
Module Handbook Master TE WS 2026_27 (pdf)

Study and Examination Regulations

Study and examination regulations (SPO) (German only) deal with judicial matters concerning your study course. For more information please turn to the pages of the legal department.

Link to Statues