Embedded Systems Design Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences

Embedded systems are regarded as a key technology for new industrial, scientific, and medical devices. From domestic devices like washing machines to complex space technology such as satellites, most products require integrated digital control and software. These components have a great impact on functionality and performance. With more than 16 billion devices, embedded systems are everywhere. As "hidden systems", the embedded systems determine innovations in industrial equipment, medical devices, and scientific instruments. Since many products without embedded systems cannot compete on the market, specially trained personnel are demanded by the industry worldwide.

Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences recognises these demands and offers a Master's study programme in Embedded Systems Design (ESD). An embedded system in the scope of ESD is a system whereby a mechanical or electromechanical system receives its essential functionality via electronics, control, and software. Courses like system identification, mechatronics, and discrete control systems qualify students to design future embedded systems in industrial, medical, or scientific applications (ISM market). ESD pays attention to system-on-chip (SoC) solutions using programmable digital devices. The graduate students will meet the challenge of designing modern, safe, and reliable embedded products.

Requirements engineering is an integral part of ESD.

Applicants should be interested in control engineering, mechanics, programmable logic systems (FPGAs), and software development. Basic knowledge in these areas, as well as sound engineering principles of a preceding technical Bachelor's degree, are requirements for admission to the ESD Master's programme.

The first semester of Embedded Systems Design teaches methods required for embedded systems engineering:

• Mechatronics
• Discrete Control Systems
• Digital Systems / VHDL
• System-on-Chip Design
• Model-based Real-time Software Development
• Safety and Reliability Engineering

The second semester is more application-oriented:

• Industrial Systems
• Medical Systems
• Maritime Scientific Instruments
• Requirements Engineering
• Embedded Systems Design Project

The modules consist of class and lab parts. The lab sections increase over time from 25% to 75% to transfer theory to practical applications.

The Master's thesis and the defence colloquium are intended for the third semester. Master's thesis topics comprise university research projects or industrial development/research.

All classes and labs as well as course documentation and exams are in English.

Part-time study is possible according to the part-time study regulations of Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences. Part-time study must be motivated and approved by the university. A common reason for part-time study is professional work in the area of embedded systems.

No industry internship is required for the Embedded Systems Design Master's degree.

Bachelor's degree (or equivalent academic degree) in a technical subject with knowledge in

• Electrical engineering
• Mathematics/physics
• Basics of mechanics
• Control engineering
• Digital systems
• Programming/software

The final grade for the Bachelor's degree must be "good" (German grade 2.3, CGPA of 2.7 out of 4.0 or equivalent). For applicants with a professional background of two years or more after their Bachelor's degree, the required grade increases to 2.6.
A transcript of records must be submitted with the application to verify that the admission requirements are satisfied.

420 EUR

The semester contribution includes a semester ticket covering public transport on all local public transport services nationwide.

Living costs in Bremerhaven are quite low in comparison to other German cities. The estimated amount of 800 to 1,100 EUR per month should be sufficient to cover basic expenditures. However, the amount of money spent by the students depends very strongly on their standard of living. Here is a rough estimation of monthly costs:

• health insurance: 110 EUR (for non-EU applicants)
• rent: 350 to 500 EUR
• food and other expenses: 350 to 450 EUR

Students may work up to 140 days (or 280 half days) per year. The university offers student jobs (student tutor, lab assistant, etc.) currently at a rate of 14.28 EUR per hour (as of 1 February 2025).

The Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship) provides support to students who show excellent academic achievements and also engage in voluntary activities. Students can apply for funding of 300 EUR per month. The scholarship does not count towards BAföG and does not need to be repaid. The programme is financed by regional companies, institutions, foundations, private individuals and the Federal Ministry for Education and Research with equal shares. In addition to the financial support, scholarship holders are also backed by regional sponsors. Sponsors and scholarship holders meet regularly for events, which are organised by the university together with the scholarship holders. Personal contact between the sponsors and the scholarship holders is also encouraged.

DAAD STIBET I scholarships for international students (graduation; outstanding commitment; equal opportunities)

The Career Service Centre is the intersection between the university and the job market. It supports students with information and personalised advice on starting their career. 

The Career Service Centre provides:

• coaching for students, such as: guidance and portfolio checks
• mock interviews
• seminars and workshops in cooperation with external providers, in order to prepare students for their career start

Accommodation is available through the Student Service Office (Studierendenwerk Bremen) or on the private market. A single room in a shared flat costs approx. 300 EUR/month. One-room flats cost approx. 500 EUR/month. Private accommodation can be found online:

• International Office
• ASTA Bremerhaven