Architecture Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt

Architecture shapes the spaces in which we live, work, and interact. It plays a decisive role in shaping society and culture, giving form to the world we inhabit. It requires imagination, spatial thinking, and the ability to translate ideas into built form, while engaging with the realities of construction, resources, and the necessary transformation of our built environment.

At the School of Architecture at Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt (THI), design is at the core of our curriculum. We understand architecture as both a cultural practice grounded in making space and building, one that connects creativity and intellect with technical knowledge, and conceptual thinking with material and structural realities. Through design studio work, students develop their own architectural position, supported by courses in construction, technology, representation, and digital methods.

The built environment is undergoing profound change. How we build, reuse, and transform existing structures will shape the future of our cities and landscapes. New technologies are redefining design and production processes, while the demands on resources and construction are increasing. As part of the Faculty of Sustainable Infrastructure, the School of Architecture is embedded in a broader context of environmental and technological transformation. Students engage with these challenges through concrete design work and interdisciplinary exchange, developing the ability to respond to complex conditions with clarity and responsibility.

The School of Architecture at THI is a newly established programme. This offers a particular opportunity: students become part of a growing academic environment and actively contribute to shaping its culture. Close interaction with faculty, small classes and studios, a collaborative studio atmosphere, and a strong connection between teaching and practice define the learning experience.

The programme is located at the THI Campus in Neuburg an der Donau, in Upper Bavaria, one of Germany's most culturally rich and internationally recognised regions. Neuburg offers a high quality of life in a focused environment, shaped by historic towns, rivers, and a strong architectural heritage. The campus is closely connected to one of Germany's most dynamic economic regions. The Ingolstadt–Neuburg area features a strong industrial and technological base, offering relevant professional perspectives during and after their studies. Living costs remain comparatively moderate.

Studying architecture is an intensive and collaborative experience. It demands curiosity, commitment, and the willingness to engage with complex questions across different scales: from the detail of construction, environmental, social, and societal impact of buildings, to the urban and territorial context. In return, it offers the opportunity to develop a creative and responsible approach to shaping the built environment.

The Bachelor's programme at Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt (THI) is structured to develop architectural thinking and design ability in a clear and progressive sequence. With architectural design at its core, the programme combines studio-based learning with courses in construction, technology, and representation. Digital methods are integrated throughout, enabling students to work with contemporary tools for modelling, simulation, and fabrication while translating ideas into built form across increasing levels of complexity.

Introduction – Semesters 1 to 3

The first phase of the programme establishes the essential foundations of architectural thinking and practice. Students engage with Architectural Design Fundamentals, Building Construction, Structural Design, Representation, Building Materials, and the History and Theory of Architecture and the City. These courses are not understood as isolated disciplines, but as interconnected fields that together build a coherent understanding of architecture as both a cultural and a material practice.

Parallel to the academic curriculum, students develop their German language proficiency to level B2. This equips them to engage with the professional and academic world in Germany during their studies and subsequent careers.

Development and Specialisation – Semesters 4 to 9

The second phase builds directly on this foundation and is taught mainly in German, with selected courses offered in English. Students work across a broad range of design studios, from project-based work to advanced design studios with a focus on adaptive reuse, urban design, participation, and the social dimensions of architecture. Elective courses allow students to pursue and deepen their individual interests, whether in socio-cultural sustainability, circular architecture, innovative technologies, computational design, or cultural heritage.

Throughout this phase, the emphasis is on creativity, teamwork, and the development of innovative, future-oriented design strategies grounded in human-centred approaches and shaped by interdisciplinary exchange. Students are expected to bring curiosity and commitment, and to engage with complex design questions across different scales and contexts.

A compulsory professional internship in the sixth semester offers the opportunity to apply knowledge in a real working environment. It provides hands-on experience, deepens the understanding of how architecture is practised beyond the academic setting, and supports a considered transition into the advanced stages of the programme.

Bachelor's Thesis

The programme concludes with a Bachelor's thesis, accompanied by a dedicated research module, in which students articulate and demonstrate their individual position as emerging architects. Upon successful completion, the degree of Bachelor of Engineering in Architecture (BEng) is awarded.

Architecture is not only learned in an academic setting but also tested and refined through practice. In the sixth semester, an integrated internship bridges academic study and professional life. Students spend a structured period working in an architectural office or a related professional environment, applying the technical knowledge, design thinking, and understanding of construction developed throughout the programme.

This direct engagement with practice allows students to observe how projects move from concept to realisation, and how architectural teams collaborate under real conditions. The internship can be completed in Germany or abroad, giving students the flexibility to gain international experience and broaden their professional perspective beyond the region. Either way, it is an integral part of the curriculum, not an addition to the programme, but rather a formative stage within it. It prepares students to enter professional practice with confidence and often opens lasting connections to the profession and wider architectural landscape.

Applications are possible

• until 31 August 2026 for the winter semester 2026/2027
• from 15 October 2026 until 15 January 2027 for the summer semester 2027
• from 1 April 2027 until 15 July 2027 for the winter semester 2027/2028

Please note that we admit applicants already during the application period to the programme. Therefore, we recommend applying as soon as possible.

Requirements include a valid university entrance qualification ("Hochschulzugangsberechtigung"). This is a secondary school-leaving certificate equivalent to the German "Abitur" that entitles you to study at a German university.

In addition, proficiency at the B2 level in the English language needs to be provided.

Applicants who did not acquire the higher secondary school-leaving certificate in Germany or at a school with the German "Abitur" examination rules will have to send their documents to uni-assist for preliminary inspection prior to their application at THI. Please allow four to six weeks for this process, i.e. apply as soon as possible via uni-assist.

More information on the application process can be found here.

Whether you meet the admission requirements for the Architecture BEng programme at Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt can only be determined after THI has reviewed your complete application documents. A legally binding decision is therefore possible only on the basis of the full application and your previous educational background.

We appreciate your understanding that no definitive pre-assessment can be given in advance. You are warmly invited to submit your application, and THI will carefully review your documents as part of the official admissions process.

All students will have to pay a student union fee of 82 EUR per semester.

In addition to tuition fees, students face the following fixed monthly living costs:

- Health insurance: approx. 150 EUR

- Liability insurance: approx. 10 EUR

- Accommodation: approx. 500 to 650 EUR

- Internet and mobile phone: approx. 25 EUR

- Food: approx. 200 to 300 EUR

- German TV/radio fee: approx. 19 EUR

- Public transport (Deutschlandticket 2026): approx. 43 EUR

Beyond these fixed costs, additional expenses will vary depending on individual needs, such as travel to visit family or participation in leisure activities. 

Additionally, don’t forget potential unforeseen costs, such as the need for a new laptop or mobile phone, etc.

Usually, non-EU students are required to provide proof of sufficient financial means with a blocked account for visa purposes. It should contain approx. 992 EUR per month for up to 12 months.

Whether you can work alongside your studies depends on several factors. At the beginning, it is advisable to focus on your studies and adjust to a new academic and cultural environment. Studying abroad can be challenging due to different learning cultures and the need to catch up on course content.

International students are required to take part in a programme preparing them for the German labour market.

A good command of German at least B2 level is essential for employment opportunities. Students are therefore encouraged to invest time in learning German.

After the first year, students may consider taking on a part-time job. Specialist skills are required to work as a student trainee.

Furthermore, non-EU citizens only have a limited work permit in Germany (see Study and work).

There are different scholarship opportunities for enrolled students in Germany. However, it is very important to understand that scholarships are highly competitive, limited in number, and never guaranteed. Students must ensure they can finance their studies independently and should not rely on receiving a scholarship. Most programmes focus on excellent academic performance, personal engagement, or specific qualifications; financial need is often not the main criterion. Some national scholarships also require German language skills (often B2 level).

THI offers its own scholarship opportunities for international students once a year, announced through the university’s communication channels. For example, the Deutschlandstipendium supports high-performing, committed students regardless of their financial situation.

There are several major national foundations with extensive selection processes for which the university provides guidance and support.

Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt provides a comprehensive range of counselling and career services, including workshops designed to prepare students for the German labour market. These cover key topics such as application training, CV writing and interview skills.

After graduation, our graduates stay connected with the university and their study group through the Alumni Network.

For further information, please visit our website: https://www.thi.de/en/university/university-profile/organisation/career-service-student-counselling.

Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt does not run any student residence halls / dorms. You will have to start looking for accommodation on your own as soon as possible. At least 500 EUR per month should be budgeted for accommodation.

Here are some facts about finding accommodation in Ingolstadt or Neuburg.

Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt (THI) is an institution that specialises in business and technology and is characterised by innovative study concepts and modern facilities. We are currently training over 8,500 students in more than 75 study programmes in engineering, computer science, business, life sciences and sustainability.
Our students will graduate as sought-after specialists and managers. An extremely dynamic and successful region with a distinctly strong economic structure provides for excellent framework conditions. The relatively small student body guarantees individual guidance, a familial atmosphere, and close cooperation between students and professors.
One of the core features of studying at our university is its orientation towards practical application. Internships and projects, as well as continuous cooperation with regional companies, are fundamental components of every study programme.
The Ingolstadt campus was completed in 1999, and a new tract of buildings opened in 2014. In 2021, the Neuburg campus opened its doors with its Faculty of Sustainable Infrastructure. Modern equipment and facilities create an atmosphere that adds to students' success and enjoyment. Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt is proud of its commitment to offer the highest possible level of quality in research and education. It is possible to explore Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt by visiting the interactive 360° THI campus tour.

This programme is offered at Campus Neuburg. Neuburg offers a rich and beautiful Baroque history. It is on the Danube, the European river flowing through the city and landscape and leaving its mark. The Danube floodplains between Ingolstadt and Neuburg are a biosphere reserve full of oxbow lakes inhabited by rare animals and plants. Neuburg within the district of Neuburg-Schrobenhausen is also a central player in the economic region between Eichstätt, Ingolstadt and Pfaffenhofen, centrally located between the major cities of Munich, Augsburg and, of course, Ingolstadt.