Engineering Science (BEng) Hof University of Applied Sciences

Discover the world of German engineering excellence!

This English-taught programme offers a unique blend of Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Mechatronics, preparing you for a dynamic career in global industries. Additionally, it includes mandatory German language training (up to level B2) to support your academic and professional development.

Start your journey with a flexible online first semester and gain the skills to shape the future of technology.

Graduates of the programme will have:

• Technical know-how: Profound knowledge of mechanics, electronics, and automation
• Practical competence: Experience with modern engineering tools like 3D CAD and simulation software
• Interdisciplinary thinking: The ability to solve problems by integrating different engineering disciplines
• Project management skills: Leadership skills for managing interdisciplinary teams and organising complex technical projects
• Sustainability awareness: Knowledge to develop energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly technologies
• Intercultural communication: Excellent language and teamwork skills for international environments, supported by language courses

In addition, you will benefit from:

• A flexible start with the first semester available entirely online
• Language support to help you integrate into German academic and professional life
• Strong industry connections for internships, projects, and career opportunities
• German language skills (level B2) at graduation

You will be ready to work as a:

• Mechanical Engineer – Developing and optimising machines and systems
• Industrial Engineer – Enhancing production processes and operational efficiency
• Automation Specialist – Implementing state-of-the-art technologies in production
• Process Optimisation Engineer – Improving efficiency and sustainability in industrial processes
• Automation Engineer – Advancing automation and robotics in industrial settings
• Project Manager in Engineering – Leading complex technical projects in diverse, international teams
• Research and Development Engineer – Driving innovation in fields like renewable energy and artificial intelligence

With this versatile skill set, graduates have the opportunity to enter dynamic industries worldwide or pursue a Master's degree in specialised engineering fields.

The Bachelor's programme in Engineering Science combines in-depth knowledge of fundamental engineering concepts with practice-oriented modules and application projects.

Semester one and two: Fundamentals
Students focus on fundamentals such as mathematics, mechanics, computer science, materials science, and project management. International students receive intensive mandatory German language training.

Semester three and four: Specialisation I
Core specialisations are in Manufacturing Technologies, Mechanics, Electrical Systems, Statistics, and elective business modules. International students receive mandatory German language training.

Semester five and six: Specialisation II
Specialisation in advanced topics, including Production and Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical and Design Engineering, Automation and Robotics, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Business Administration and Management, and elective courses like AI, Smart Factories and Sustainable Manufacturing

Semester seven: Internship semester and Bachelor's thesis
A compulsory practical phase/internship (one semester) and Bachelor's thesis, often in collaboration with industrial partners, provide hands-on experience with real engineering challenges.

A mandatory internship in industry in the seventh semester allows you to gain hands-on experience in real-world environments.

• General higher education entrance qualification or subject-linked university entrance qualification, university of applied sciences entrance qualification or professional qualification
• If you are not sure about your university entrance qualification, please check uni-assist and the DAAD database.

Administrative fee of approx. 150 EUR per semester

The cost of living in the city of Hof is moderate compared to both other European countries and bigger cities in Germany. On average, living expenses for a student range between 800 and 1,000 EUR per month in total.

The following is an approximate cost calculation of expenditures per month:

• accommodation: 350 to 550 EUR
• mandatory health insurance: about 120 EUR
• food and personal expenditures: at least 350 EUR

The Career Service team at Hof University offers you a wide range of career preparation and orientation services, including workshops, company excursions, and job fairs. We will prepare you for the German labour market by providing you with specific information, counselling, and qualifications. Thus, you will be able to start your individual career as an intern and as a graduate.

The Housing Office supports international students in finding appropriate accommodation.

Rent for a single student room is approx. 350 to 550 EUR. Rent for a private one-room apartment for one tenant or for a couple is more than 550 EUR. We also have a limited number of double rooms for friends that cost about 250 to 320 EUR per person. Beside the rent, there are additional costs for water, energy, broadcast fee, and Internet.

For a full overview of the practical issues related to living in Hof and our support services for international students, please have a look at the website of our Welcome Service and Housing Office.

Studying at Hof University – your benefits at a glance

• Hands-on education that prepares you for a successful career
• Friendly, international study community
• Personal support from Welcome Service, International Office, and Career Service
• Help finding accommodation and a guided Orientation Week
• Career-building activities like intercultural training, field trips, and company visits

About Hof University

Founded in 1994, Hof University offers a modern campus with state-of-the-art facilities and a hands-on learning environment. As a practice-oriented university of applied sciences with integrated internships in all programmes, the employability of our graduates is the main focus of our teaching.

Our commitment to students is reflected in StudyCheck rankings: Hof University was Germany’s most popular university in 2023 and 2024 and continues to receive excellent teaching ratings. In 2026, StudyCheck awarded the “Top Hochschule” distinction, recognising Hof University as one of the most popular institutions in Germany with fewer than 5,000 students.

We offer over 50 Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes in engineering, advanced computing and AI, business, and design. The Graduate School provides fully English-taught postgraduate programmes for professionals with at least one year of work experience.

Practice-oriented learning

All professors have a strong academic background as well as practical experience in industry. Teaching is application-focused, including real-world projects, company collaborations, and site visits. This approach ensures students gain practical skills and confidence to succeed in national and international careers.

Personal support & international environment

Hof University is known for its friendly study atmosphere. An excellent student-to-lecturer ratio enables close interaction between students and professors and an active exchange of ideas. Students benefit from personal support services such as orientation programmes, integration events, and housing assistance.

With over 130 partner universities worldwide and more than 30% international students on campus, Hof University offers a truly multicultural and welcoming environment where you can grow both academically and personally.

Applied research & entrepreneurship

Six research institutes focus on areas such as information systems, sustainable water and energy systems, materials science, and organisational research, always connecting research to practical and sustainable solutions.

Students with entrepreneurial ideas receive guidance and support at Einstein1, the on-campus incubator that helps turn innovative ideas into real-world ventures.

Our main campus is located in the city of Hof, a safe and cosy town located at the top of Bavaria and in the heart of Europe. Hof has a population of about 45,000 inhabitants and offers all the amenities of a university town: a cinema, theatre, an annual film festival and a variety of cafés, bars and clubs.

Our region has the second-highest density of industry across Europe, with many companies specialising in machinery, automotive components, ceramics, and textiles. Many of these are small and medium-sized “hidden champions” in their field, offering excellent opportunities for internships and entry-level jobs.

The city of Hof is surrounded by beautiful nature. It is located between the low mountain regions of the Fichtelgebirge and the Franconian Forest on the banks of the Saale River. You will find excellent possibilities for all outdoor sporting activities such as cycling, hiking, climbing, and skiing.

Big cities like Berlin, Prague, and Munich are also within easy reach by train or bus. This means you can study in a practice-oriented environment while also enjoying life outside the classroom.