Automotive Systems Esslingen University of Applied Sciences
- Duration
- 3 semesters
- Language of instruction
- English
- Tuition fees
- Tuition varies
- Next application deadline
- 31 March 2027 (winter semester)
- Language level required
- English: B2German: A2
First impressions
Photo gallery
Our voices
What I appreciate most about Esslingen University is the connection of the programme with the automotive companies as well as the programme's close relationship with the companies relevant within the field. I still apply many of the topics I learned there in my job. Now I work daily with colleagues from more than 20 nationalities. Having close friends from the Master’s programme has helped me understand different perspectives, work more efficiently and avoid misunderstandings.
Enmanuel Garcia Rus
MEng
Take a closer look
Automotive Systems
The film offers insight into our labs and lectures as well as the university campus and the city. It also introduces professors and students.
Play videoProgramme overview
Quick facts
- Degree
- MEng
- Duration
- 3 semesters
- Full-time / part-time
- Full-time
- Intake
- Winter semester
- Joint degree / double degree programme
- No
- A Diploma supplement will be issued
- Yes
- Combined Master's degree / PhD programme
- No
Language of instruction
The courses are taught entirely in English.
A German language course, starting with an intensive course that is available at different levels, is offered at the beginning of the programme in September. Students also have the opportunity to learn various other languages.
At the end of the second semester, students must provide proof of A2 level German (certificate).
Programme description
The aim of the MEng ASM:
The Esslingen Master of Engineering reflects the needs of globally oriented companies. The programmes are designed for students who wish to become highly-qualified engineers in the field of automotive systems for the development of feedback control systems and software intensive systems.
To this end, the course is given in close conjunction with local industry, emphasising practical experience.
In addition, students are given the chance to work on networked projects in multicultural teams.
The Master of Engineering programme in Automotive Systems (ASM) started in 2008 and is offered every year. It has been re-structured in 2023 with a stronger focus on systems and software (ASM 2.0). Therefore, two majors are offered:
- Aim of the "Vehicle Systems" major:
Graduates will have the chance to work in the field of development and testing of innovative automotive functions for steering, suspension, and powertrain to improve ride and handling, stability, driveability, and fuel economisation. - Aim of the "Automotive IT" major:
Graduates will have the chance to work in the field of development and testing of innovative car communication systems and of safe software, robotics and autonomous driving.
A Master's degree can be earned after the usual study period of three semesters (one and a half years). The language of instruction is English. The aim of this course of study is to reach a specialised, professional level in one of the following two fields: vehicle systems or automotive IT.
In order to facilitate more exchange with German students, two courses in the second semester (Powertrain/VS and V2X/IT) are interlinked with the German Automotive Master's programme.
Programme structure
The Esslingen "Master of Engineering in Automotive Systems" (ASM) programme aims to provide students with a specialised professional qualification in sophisticated automotive systems. Students have to choose one of the two modules: Vehicle Systems or Automotive IT. Cross-cultural, interdisciplinary student projects add a practical component to the lectures. Through these projects, students are given the opportunity to share not only their specialised knowledge but also their cultural backgrounds in real-life working scenarios.
First semester – foundations:
- System Design (Model-Based System, Engineering, Software Engineering)
- Simulation and Control (System Simulation, State Machines, Advanced Controller Design, Microcontroller)
- Mathematics (Statistics, Numerical Differential Equations, Statistics)
Additional supplementary courses according to educational background (assigned by the academic director according to the academic background of the student; students with Automotive Engineering background could be assigned to the IT Fundamentals class in the first semester):
- Vehicle Systems Fundamentals
- IT Fundamentals
Second semester – advanced courses/modules (for all modules: Autonomous Systems, Team Project, Global Engineering / Project Management / International Negotiations)
"Vehicle Systems" major:
- Ride and Handling
- Suspension Modelling
- Propulsion Systems
"Automotive IT" major:
- Autonomous Communications (Communication Systems, Vehicle to X)
- Usability and Dependability (Mobile Robotics, Man-Machine Interactions (MMI), Safety and Security)
Third semester – Master's thesis: In their final theses, students demonstrate the full extent of their scientific and practical engineering knowledge of a specific subject. Master's theses can be executed individually or in a team, either at the university or, preferably, within a company. The duration is six months, and it includes training in soft skills.
Mode of study
- Fully on-site
International elements in the curriculum
The curriculum of this study programme includes international elements that support global perspectives and cross-cultural learning:
- Language training provided
- Training in intercultural skills
- Projects with partners in Germany and abroad
- International guest lecturers
Application and admission
Application period(s)
Winter semester
| Applicants from | Applications begin | Application deadline | |
|---|---|---|---|
All countries
|
1 November 2026
|
31 March 2027
|
Academic admissions requirements
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor of Automotive Engineering, Computer Engineering, other Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering or equivalent)
- Two confidential letters of recommendation
- Letter of motivation
- English language test (Please see our website for details.)
- Online application
- The APS certificate is required for applicants whose first degree is from PR China, Vietnam and India.
Language requirements
German language requirements
English language requirements
Accepted certificates include
| Certificates | Minimum result |
|---|---|
TOEFL iBT (since 2026)
|
Total: 4 / 6
Reading: 4 / 6
Listening: 4 / 6
Writing: 4 / 6
Speaking: 4 / 6
|
TOEFL iBT Home Edition (before 2026)
|
Total: 71 / 120
Reading: 18 / 30
Listening: 17 / 30
Writing: 17 / 30
Speaking: 20 / 30
|
Cambridge English Qualifications
|
Total: B2 First
|
IELTS Academic
|
Total: 6 / 9
|
How to apply?
Costs and funding
Tuition fees per semester
| Applicants from | Tuition fee | |
|---|---|---|
Non-EU countries
|
1,500 EUR
|
Semester contribution
195 EUR per semester
Cost of living
In addition to the study fees and in order to cover personal expenses during the study programme in Esslingen, we recommend that participants budget around 992 EUR per month for accommodation (approx. 340 to 420 EUR), health insurance, books, excursions, and other expenses. For a residence permit, the amount of 992 EUR per month (17,856 EUR for 18 months) is required.
Scholarships and financing information
The "Deutschlandstipendium" supports a very limited number of new or advanced students of excellent academic and professional promise. For more information, see:
https://www.hs-esslingen.de/en/study/advice-support/praxis-beruf-karriere/job-search-contacts-to-companies/deutschlandstipendium-german-scholarships
Company scholarships are also a possibility, and interested students should contact the respective company directly for further information.
Living & services
Support for international students
- Welcome event
- Specialist counselling
- Cultural and linguistic preparation
- Visa matters
- Help with finding accommodation
Accompanying courses and support:
- Personal coaching seminars: business etiquette
- German language courses: employability support
- Orientation week (September): academic & cultural orientation
- Guaranteed subsidised housing: close to campus
- Dedicated programme coordinator: personal support
- International friends programme: meet-ups & regional excursions
Course-specific language courses available
Career advisory services
Career services are available:
https://www.hs-esslingen.de/en/study/advice-support/praxis-beruf-karriere/careers-orientation
Accommodation
Most of our students live in modern single apartments with a bathroom/toilet and modern facilities located in student residences. There are student dormitories in the immediate vicinity of City Campus or Hilltop Campus in Esslingen. A room in the dormitory is guaranteed for one year. The monthly cost is between 360 EUR and 420 EUR per month.
For more information: https://www.hs-esslingen.de/en/international/coming-to-esslingen-uas/international-masters-programmes-graduate-school/general-information-about-studying-and-living-in-esslingen
About us
Esslingen University of Applied Sciences
ESSLINGEN – AN IDEAL LOCATION TO STUDY
Esslingen University focuses on engineering and business studies as well as social sciences.
Currently, more than 6,000 students are enrolled in the university's six faculties and are divided between three campuses: the city centre campus lies in the heart of Esslingen; the hilltop campus is located on a hill overlooking the city; and the Goeppingen campus is situated 32 km away from Esslingen. A new, sustainable and modern campus is set to be inaugurated in Esslingen in the near future.
Esslingen University is continually adapting to meet current demands in all its fields of work. Our business studies and industry-oriented degree programmes foster intensive contact with many leading companies in Germany. They are part of a network that has been growing continually over the past 50 years.
The central philosophy of Esslingen University is to offer degree programmes that are not only practice-oriented but also state-of-the-art. Small classes enable intensive cooperation between staff and students. Project and group work, as well as a thesis, preferably in industry, all contribute to preparing students for a successful professional career based on academic knowledge.
Its excellent reputation and the quality of the scientifically and professionally grounded training have ensured that the Esslingen University is regularly placed among the top universities in various university rankings.
Location
ESSLINGEN – AN AMAZING PLACE TO LIVE
The city of Esslingen has a population of over 96,000 inhabitants and lies nestled in the vineyards overlooking the Neckar valley. Stuttgart, the capital city of Baden-Wuerttemberg, is only 15 kilometres away and can be reached by train in just a few minutes. This cultural hub of Germany offers a wide range of leisure activities.
Near the Esslingen university, there are many hiking paths through the vineyards and forests that can be explored on foot or by bicycle. Within the city, there are many parks, the castle, waterways, street cafés, and theatres. In the winter, the old city centre lights up with a Christmas market; in the summer, live music, open-air cinemas, and artisans’ markets make Esslingen come to life. The historical city centre, with its half-timbered houses, its cafés, and its diverse cultural life, offers an ideal environment for studying.
Esslingen has a history reaching back over 1,250 years – a history in which tradition and progress have gone hand in hand. Since its industrialisation, Esslingen has been a major centre for engineering and industrial management education because of this mixture of technical prowess and cultural tradition.
Activate map
To activate the map, please click on the "Show map" button. Please note that after activation, data will be transmitted to OpenStreetMap. You can find more information about this in our privacy policy.
Contact
Esslingen Graduate School
- Name
- Ute Brinkmann
- Address
- Flandernstr. 101, 73732 Esslingen am Neckar
Additional contact
- Name
- Prof Dr Ralf Schuler
- Phone
- +49 7113973321