Communication and Information Technology (Master of Science) Ulm University

The Communication and Information Technology degree programme offers specialisations in four tracks, Communications Circuits and Systems, Sensor Circuits and Systems, Communications Engineering and Intelligent Systems. The specialisations offer a strong foundation in integrated mixed-signal and RF circuits, RF engineering and radar design, wireless communication, signal processing, optical communication devices, and machine learning.

Students whose main interest is modern digital communication methods, such as coding, networking or advanced modulation techniques can choose the Communications Engineering specialisation. In accordance with the research specialisation of the Electrical Engineering Faculty at the University of Ulm, mobile communication methods and systems are strongly emphasised.

Students interested in the underlying hardware aspects such as microwave/millimetre-wave engineering, microelectronics and optoelectronic devices can opt for the Communications Circuits and Systems specialisation, in which the hardware aspects of modern communication systems are centred. The excellent infrastructure in millimetre waves and microfabrication offers a unique combination of theoretical instruction with hands-on laboratory experience.

Students with a focus on integrated circuit and sensor design can select the specialisation in Sensor Circuits and Systems, in which mixed-signal and RF integrated circuits, mm-wave engineering, integrated sensors and sensor interfaces are taught.

Software-oriented students with a background and interest in information system technology or computer engineering can specialise in Intelligent Systems. In this track, machine learning, pattern recognition, and secure system engineering are the focus.

• A pre-semester course (with a duration of six weeks), starting in March of each year, offers an intensive course of German for daily life ("Survival German"), as well as an introduction to Germany in general and life at Ulm University in particular.
• A three-semester period of courses follows.
• The final semester is reserved for the research thesis (six months duration, full time).

The curriculum distinguishes between core subjects, specialisation subjects (according to the chosen specialisation), practical subjects and complementary subjects. Complementary subjects are both scientific-technical, leading to an increased level of specialisation in certain areas, and non-technical, for example, with a stronger emphasis on languages or soft skills.

The modules all contain lectures and classes. Some also use a blended approach, which additionally uses seminars and laboratory experiments.

An optional industrial internship (9 ECTS credits) can be completed as part of the programme; the third semester or the semester breaks are recommended for this.

• Bachelor’s degree or comparable degree at the level of at least three years of study
  • in Electrical Engineering, Communications Engineering or Electronics, or
  • in a degree programme in a closely related field with basic knowledge in six or more of the following eight topics: Fundamentals of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Fundamentals of Computer Science/Programming, Signals and Systems, Communications Engineering, Circuit Technology, Electromagnetic Fields and Waves, Semiconductor Technology, to the extent of at least one module each
• Above-average performance in the completed degree proven by
  • an overall grade of 2.0 or better, or, if a degree has not yet been awarded, by the previous study and examination achievements showing an average of 2.0 or better by the application deadline, or
  • an official proof from the university that the applicant is in the top 20% of their year
• Good knowledge of the English language
• Previous employment in a related field is not a requirement.

The semester contribution is 182 EUR per semester. For further details, visit the Office of the Registrar website: https://www.uni-ulm.de/en/study/organisation/tuition-fees/.

The cost of living in Ulm is estimated to be around 945 EUR to 1,000 EUR per month. For more information on the costs students in Ulm can expect, see the following website: https://www.uni-ulm.de/en/io/degree-phd/welcome/finances/living-expenses/.

Student assistant jobs are regularly offered by institutes in all faculties as well as in the central administration. Student assistants help with the preparation and execution of tutorials, work on research projects, or help with administrative tasks. Furthermore, several companies with strong ties to the university are located on campus (e.g. Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Continental, BMW Car IT, Sartorius, and more) and offer the possibility of student jobs.

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Students who perform well academically and/or participate in community service are eligible to apply for scholarships such as the "Deutschlandstipendium".

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The Career Service at Ulm University serves as a valuable resource for students, offering assistance in career exploration, skill development, and a successful transition from academia to the professional world.

The Graduate & Professional Training Centre Ulm ("ProTrainU") focuses on supporting doctoral students and other young researchers in their careers and professional development.

The Entrepreneurs' Campus at Ulm University offers opportunities for creative academics who want to develop their ideas into products or business models.

Accommodation in student dormitories is arranged for admitted students by the Communication and Information Technology programme office. Rental costs are between 298 EUR and 502 EUR per month.

Founded in 1967, Ulm University is dedicated to world-class teaching and research in medicine and STEM. Its 10,000 students are distributed among the faculties of medicine, engineering, computer science and psychology, mathematics and economics as well as natural sciences.

According to a Times Higher Education ranking based on research and teaching excellence, Ulm University is ranked 14th worldwide among all universities founded in the "Golden Age of Higher Education", an era between 1945 and 1967 that is characterised by rapid university expansion. Ulm University is also a founding member of YERUN, a network of highly ranked young European research universities.

Ulm University's subject range concentrates on the STEM fields (natural sciences, technology, engineering, and mathematics). The latest research findings are swiftly incorporated into the curriculum, ensuring cutting-edge subjects and content. Ulm University attaches great importance to the ongoing refinement of its high standards in teaching, which are defined and anchored in its teaching mission statement. 

As a young research university, Ulm University is oriented towards the global challenges of the future. Strategic and interdisciplinary research themes are contributing to improvements in the areas of green energy, quantum technologies, data science as well as human health and well-being. Great success in the acquisition of third-party funding and numerous larger projects, such as collaborative research centres and a Cluster of Excellence, are all testimonies to the university's research strength.

Ulm University is the centre of and driving force behind the "Science City Ulm", an innovative teaching, research and science hub. There are numerous start-ups, development centres of renowned companies such as Siemens, Nokia, Mercedes-Benz Group AG, BMW and Continental, as well as clinics and non-university research institutions that are well-connected with the university. As a result of close collaborations with these partners, students benefit from access to contract lecturers from the industry as well as invaluable opportunities for research projects, internships and final theses. 

For more information on Ulm University, see https://www.uni-ulm.de/en/.

Ulm is one of the most innovative, dynamic, fast-growing and liveable cities in Germany. It is located in the heart of southern Germany near Stuttgart, Munich, the Alps and Switzerland.

With a population of more than 120,000 people, Ulm has an ideal size for living, studying and working. The city offers a mix of medieval and modern architecture and a great variety of cultural, sports and leisure activities.

A healthy mix of medium-sized businesses and global players, high-tech and trade, and innovation and tradition makes Ulm and the greater Ulm area one of Germany's economically most dynamic regions.

A truly outstanding landmark is the "Muenster", Ulm's cathedral. The Muenster has the world's second tallest church steeple, which measures 161.5 metres (530 ft).

Ulm is also the birthplace of Albert Einstein (1879 to 1955), the world's most famous scientist. 

Are you interested in learning more? Check out this video featuring the highlights of Ulm.