The program lasts three semesters, with two semesters dedicated to compulsory and elective modules, followed by a semester for the Master's thesis. Courses are conducted in person at Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt.
Curriculum:
Semester 1:
Intelligent Sensing and Exploration: Sensors are essential to the mobility and autonomy of autonomous systems. This module covers how data from multiple sensors are combined to quickly and accurately provide information about the environment, physical events, activities, or situations to decision-making components.
Planning, Control, and Decision Making: Autonomous systems must be capable of planning actions to achieve specific goals and adapt to unexpected situations. This module focuses on using machine learning to combine sensory data with past experiences, enabling systems to improve their actions through intelligent planning.
Software Methods and System Development: This module approaches the development of autonomous systems from a software engineering perspective. It covers characteristics of autonomous systems, cloud and edge computing architectures, and learning models that enable systems to dynamically adapt their behavior to changes in operating conditions.
Semester 2:
Elective Modules: Focus on specific aspects of autonomous systems development, automotive applications, innovation management, engineering processes, or German language courses to tailor your expertise to specific career goals.
Research Methods: Apply scientific research methods to a state-of-the-art topic in AI engineering. Present and discuss your findings with peers and summarize them in a seminar paper.
Group Project: Gain practical experience through collaboration in a team. This module culminates in a project presentation and a summary paper, providing a hands-on learning experience.
Semester 3:
Master's Thesis: Conduct original research on a topic related to autonomous systems, AI, or related fields. This final project culminates in a written thesis and an oral defense, demonstrating your mastery of the subject matter.
Requirements:
Bachelor's Degree: In electrical engineering, computer science, mathematics, or a related discipline with 210 ECTS. For degrees with 180–209 ECTS, additional qualifications are required.
Aptitude Test: Evaluation based on:
- Cumulative grade of Bachelor's degree
- Knowledge in systems engineering, signal processing, communications, programming, software development, probability theory, and machine learning
- Experience in independent scientific work and engineering problem-solving
Language Requirements: Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL 530/197/71, IELTS 6.0, or equivalent). No German language proof required.
Application Deadline:
- Winter semester: 2 May to 15 July
- Summer semester: 15 November to 15 January
This curriculum equips students with the advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for a successful career in autonomous systems development, emphasizing intelligent sensing, decision-making, software engineering, and applied research.
