Geoinformatics Dresden University of Technology

The content of the Master's degree programme in Geoinformatics at TU Dresden covers in-depth fundamentals as well as current development and research trends in geoinformatics. The Master's degree programme offers three areas of specialisation:

• Geodata acquisition: laser scanning, photogrammetry, optical 3D measurement methods, GNSS and remote sensing as well as methods of data analysis and data integration
• Geodata services: modelling, methods and technologies for geodata infrastructures as well as the development of geoinformation services and web applications
• Geodata visualisation: methods of geovisual analysis and cartographic communication, methods of automatic generalisation, as well as mobile and field-based cartography

These focal points are supplemented by content from computer science to expand methodological knowledge (e.g. virtual reality, (geo)databases, (geo)software development) and from the environmental sciences as an essential application domain of geoinformatics (e.g. environmental risks, spatial planning). In-depth seminars and projects deal with current research topics in geoinformatics (e.g. sensor networks, GI usability, web applications for decision support, geodata fusion, etc.) In addition, key qualifications are taught in the following areas: foreign languages, management methods, personnel management, marketing, work organisation, contract law, cultures, rhetoric, presentation. In four semesters, the course comprises six compulsory modules and eight compulsory elective modules, in which courses can be selected from compulsory elective catalogues. This allows students to set their own priorities for individual specialisation. The fourth semester is used to complete and defend the Master's thesis.

Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Environmental Informatics, Geodesy, Geoinformatics, Geography, or a related field with sufficient background in spatial sciences and IT. Proof of English language proficiency is required.

Currently, students pay approx. 340 EUR per semester (i.e. for six months). This includes a ticket for public transport and regional trains in all of Germany. Additionally, students can use a bike rental service all over the city for free for 30 min. The contribution also assures concessions in the university cafeterias and offers benefits (e.g. price reductions) for many cultural and leisure activities in Dresden.

Dresden offers high quality of living at very moderate costs. Currently, students should expect to pay around 850 EUR per month including rent, food, insurance and basic expenses. This figure is relatively low compared to other big German cities.

In order to top up their budget, some students may want to look for temporary work in Dresden. If so, different regulations apply for students from EU member states, countries of the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland, and students from outside the European Union and the EEA area. In addition, restrictions on the duration of employment may apply. Professors, lecturers and group leaders involved in the Master's programme may offer students the possibility of working as academic assistants. However, living expenses can be financed only partially through a job as an academic assistant.

Information on scholarships and funding for students is summarised on a dedicated web page of the TU Dresden.

TU Dresden offers plenty of counselling and training within its Career Service to help students with finding professional orientation. Workshops to equip students with professional skills and aid to optimise your CV are offered. Moreover, students are supported regarding networking with potential employers.

Additionally, there are special workshops for international students to get to know the German and Saxon job market and network.

It is still relatively easy to find affordable accommodation in Dresden. Accommodation is available either via the "Studentenwerk Dresden" or on the private market. Rent for a single room in a student residence is 250 EUR per month on average.
Private housing can be found online. We recommend that you move into a hall of residence at the beginning of your stay in Dresden. Subsequently, you can look for a place on the private market or in a shared apartment, which is known as a "Wohngemeinschaft" in German.