Infotronic Systems Engineering, BSc Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences

Everywhere we go, we are surrounded by technical systems so unobtrusive and natural that we rarely notice them any longer. They have become ingrained parts of our lives, seamlessly blending into the world around us. The applications for these technical systems are as diverse as they are innovative: mobile phones, entertainment devices, technical healthcare solutions (such as health monitoring devices), systems for managing the modern household, traffic monitoring and control systems, automated driving assistance and safety systems (airbags, ESP, ABS) and industrial production control systems ("smart" factories, industry 4.0) are just a few noteworthy examples.

Though they come in all shapes and sizes, these systems all share a common basis: a highly complex interaction between hardware and software solutions. They are capable of collecting data from their surroundings via sensors, processing this data, exchanging it with other systems and ultimately deriving decisions and actions from it. This complex process is often broken down into smaller parts, for example, with a network of less expensive/efficient devices gathering large amounts of data, which is sent to powerful central servers for further analytical and decision-making processes.

New applications for these kinds of systems are developed on a near daily basis, which in turn pushes the boundaries for the sensor technology, applications, networks and software these systems rely on. Does this kind of innovative, cutting-edge technology interest you? Do you enjoy breaking down and solving difficult technical problems? Then our Infotronic Systems Engineering (infotronic = information and electronic) programme is right for you. Our goal is to train future engineers who can thrive in the many exciting and future-oriented areas of engineering systems, from sensor technology and the pre-processing of information to collecting, transferring and distributing data as well as automatic data processing and analysis. We will impart to you the necessary skills and expertise from computer and data science, electrical engineering and signal processing, so that you graduate with a versatile technical background for your future career.

With our type of training, you will be prepared for both current and future industry challenges, ready to seize new opportunities and play a role in shaping the future of technology. This degree programme was conceptually designed to provide a solid and versatile technical background that not only stresses practical relevance but also employs an interdisciplinary, application-oriented approach with a strong international current, in part, due to the use of English as the language of instruction.

In your first four semesters, you will acquire sound knowledge of the fundamentals of electrical engineering and computer science, enhance your subject knowledge in mathematics and be introduced to scientific research methods.

The following semesters will then provide in-depth study. During this time, you will also be able to more sharply define your knowledge by choosing elective courses that suit your interests and career plans. The range of electives includes areas such as artificial intelligence, computer security, drones and even business administration. An interdisciplinary project will allow you to carry out an in-depth investigation of a topic of your choosing and will give you the chance to hone your individual strengths and areas of specialism.

In the sixth semester, you will have the choice of either studying abroad or doing a practical semester to accumulate valuable work experience that will set you apart from the crowd and contribute to your overall personal and academic development.

In the seventh semester, you will finish your studies by submitting your Bachelor‘s thesis, followed by holding a presentation and an open discussion on your research.

In the sixth semester, students have the chance to either study abroad or do an internship (in Germany or abroad). We provide support in selecting the partner universities and institutions as well as in raising funds.

Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences welcomes applications from nationals of all countries.

Please see our website for general admission requirements.

Other requirements for the Infotronic Systems Engineering BSc programme include the following:

• a sufficient level of English language proficiency (CEFR level B2 or better)
• interest in technical problems and innovative technologies

This degree programme has restricted admission. Please find more information on our website: https://www.hochschule-rhein-waal.de/en/academics/prospective-students/current-application-period/bachelors-programmes.

Enrolment fees amount to approximately 300 EUR per semester. This covers nominal administrative fees and a public transport ticket valid for the entire federal republic of Germany.

The average cost of living for students in Germany is around 1,150 EUR per month. This includes rent, utilities, personal expenses, and general expenses (https://www.study-in-germany.de/en/plan-your-stay/money-and-costs/cost-of-living_28220.php).

Non-EU students can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year without requiring an additional visa. Student jobs within the university can be solely in English, but the vast majority of off-campus jobs will require at least basic proficiency in German. German courses are available for students through our International Center.

First-year students are strongly advised to focus primarily on their studies and to begin learning German. This will open up many more part-time job opportunities in later semesters.

The university offers a limited number of merit-based scholarships ("Deutschlandstipendium") to both current students and students who are soon to be enrolled with excellent marks. This scholarship consists of a monthly stipend of 300 EUR and applies to international students as well. Further information is available on our website: https://www.hochschule-rhein-waal.de/en/get-involved/companies/germany-scholarship.

Internship, student job, or first steps in a new career – Rhine-Waal’s Career Service is here to help with a broad range of useful services.

Correspondingly, we act as bridge builders between students and fresh graduates, the university, and companies or organisations from industry, science, social sectors, etc. Our overall goal is to "help others help themselves" by supporting capacity development in students and fresh graduates with respect to their individual career paths.

Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences strongly urges you to arrange your accommodation before arrival. One option is accommodation at the residence halls run by student services ("Studierendenwerk Düsseldorf") with one-, two- or three-room flats and rent starting around 290 EUR per month (with a security deposit equivalent to three months' rent). Availability is limited, so register online as soon as possible. See our website for details.

Most students live in private flats shared with other students. There are a number of popular online portals for finding a flat in Germany. Contact the Welcome Centre for more information or look into social media platforms because some students might be graduating when you plan to start. Additionally, the Welcome Centre is always ready to offer advice or help with conversations or correspondence in German.

Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, with two campus locations in Kleve and Kamp-Lintfort and around 6,200 students, is an innovative, interdisciplinary, and international university of applied sciences. The university currently offers over 30 undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes in engineering, the natural and social sciences, technology, design, and more. Our programmes are geared towards your employability, addressing current and future needs of industry by giving you valuable expertise and experience in your field of study. We are unique in that some 75% of our programmes are taught exclusively in English, resulting in a vibrant campus culture and a rich, intercultural exchange of ideas, experience, and knowledge.

Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences prides itself on top-notch teaching, excellent research, and a strong network of international partnerships with research institutions and industry. Our team of professors bring a fresh, dynamic approach to teaching and continuously support, encourage, guide, and inspire students. Professors are often on a first-name basis with their students. Teaching takes place in a range of cutting-edge facilities, laboratories, workspaces, smart classrooms, and auditoriums.

The result is a memorable and valuable university experience, which will help you grow as a person and set you on the path to your chosen career. We look forward to welcoming you!

Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences is centrally and conveniently located on the Lower Rhine between the Netherlands and the Rhine-Ruhr metropolis.

Kleve, where our main campus is located, is a city rich in tradition and history, and it has approximately 50,000 residents. It offers the best of both worlds: the bustle and excitement of nearby cities like Nijmegen, Düsseldorf, and Cologne with the safety, comfort, and ambience of a smaller town. The flat landscapes, mild climate, and good infrastructure of the Lower Rhine make it ideal for getting around by bicycle. Noteworthy sights include the Swan Castle, Baroque-style botanical gardens, museums, and art galleries. The town is home to large department stores and smaller boutiques, pubs, cafés, and more. Students can also participate in a range of sports offered both by the university and local clubs.

Kamp-Lintfort, our campus for the Faculty of Communication and Environment, has a current population of around 39,000 and is located 60 km (37 miles) south of Kleve. Kamp-Lintfort takes its name from a nearly 900-year-old monastery, maintained in its original style to this day. The city's proximity to the Rhine-Ruhr metropolis made it an integral part of post-WWII coal production in Germany. In recent years, Kamp-Lintfort has redefined itself as a hub of technology, innovation, and higher education. The Kamp-Lintfort campus is centrally and conveniently located in the centre of town. In addition to its historical sights, Kamp-Lintfort offers a welcoming and safe atmosphere for students with numerous shops, pubs, cafés, and sports.