Computational Modelling in Engineering - CME Karlsruhe Institute of Technology

Model. Compute. Innovate. Engineering a Sustainable Future.

The English-taught Master’s programme Computational Modelling in Engineering is designed for motivated students with a background in engineering, natural sciences, or computer science who want to shape sustainable technologies in an increasingly digital world. The programme offers a strong foundation in mathematical and physical modelling, complemented by advanced numerical and data-driven methods that are essential in modern engineering practice. As a student, you will learn to develop, analyse, and critically evaluate complex computational models while working in interdisciplinary teams that reflect real-world engineering environments. The curriculum combines fundamental theory with practical applications across various engineering domains, equipping you with skills that are both academically rigorous and highly relevant for your future career. A broad range of elective courses allows you to tailor your studies to your personal interests — whether you are passionate about materials science, fluid dynamics, structural mechanics, or innovative data‑centric approaches. Thanks to the close integration of teaching and active research, you will gain insights into current scientific challenges and collaborate with international researchers. Graduates benefit from excellent global career prospects in academia, research institutions, and forward‑thinking industries.

The Master’s programme combines a clear academic framework with a high degree of flexibility. It comprises 120 CP (ECTS) and is designed to be completed within a standard period of four semesters. The curriculum is structured into six coordinated areas:

• Core Competencies (24 CP): Build a strong foundation in the compulsory subjects of mechanics, thermodynamics, computational methods, and data science (completion is recommended by the end of the second semester).
• Methods (24 CP): Choose modules in fundamental theoretical, numerical, and data-based methods tailored to your individual research interests.
• Computational Engineering and Applications (24 CP): Deepen your expertise in specific application fields across various engineering disciplines.
• Interdisciplinary Electives (12 CP, ungraded): Broaden your horizons in the areas of Key Competencies, Economics & Law, and Technology & Society (4 CP each).
• Project (6 CP): In the third semester, you will work on a specific scientific topic in small groups of up to five students.
• Master’s Thesis (30 CP): The thesis marks the conclusion of your studies and can be completed at any of the four participating faculties.

With the exception of the Core Competencies, you can flexibly design your study plan during the first three semesters. Throughout the programme, dedicated academic advising is available to support your individual specialisation and organisational needs.

For the subject Interdisciplinary Electives, students must choose courses in the three areas Key Competencies (4 CP), Economics and Law (4 CP) and Technology and Society (4CP).

In the subjects Methods and Computational Engineering and Applications, students choose modules adding up to 24 CP each from the available offer in the module handbook. Students should decide on an individual focus and implement it in an individual study plan. Study counselling is offered to support the selection process.

The project is planned for the third semester and can be chosen from a list of offered overall topics. Up to five students team up for it, and the title will be set individually depending on the topic.

• BSc in Engineering programme (min. grade 2.3)
• Engineering/natural sciences background: ≥ 40 ECTS
• Mathematical knowledge ≥ 15 ECTS
• Sufficient English language skills (min. B2)
• Achieving min. 10 points in a selection interview on engineering problem-solving (0-10 points), presentation of engineering topics (0-5 points) and motivation and fit for the programme (0-5 points).

201 EUR per semester

Students can apply for part-time employment at the university or with a company. They are supported by the KIT Career Service: https://www.careerservice.kit.edu/en/studierende/jobboerse/.

https://www.careerservice.kit.edu/en/studierende/bewerbungssupport/bewerbungstipps/

https://www.kit.edu/study/living-and-learning-in-karlsruhe.php

The Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) is “The University in the Helmholtz Association.” As the only German university of excellence with a national large-scale research sector, we offer our students, researchers, and employees unique learning, teaching, and working conditions. The academic roots date back to 1825. Today’s structure of KIT is the result of the merger of the Technical University of Karlsruhe and the Karlsruhe Research Center in 2009.

KIT is characterised by a research-oriented and student-oriented teaching and learning culture. Graduates are well prepared to assume responsible leadership roles in a globalised world. Study programmes emphasise the development of sustainable solutions using scientific methods and have an international orientation. KIT offers Bachelor's and Master's programmes in both German and English. Eleven departments at KIT organise all higher education activities and academic affairs. In addition to excellence in teaching and cutting-edge research, innovation is a central mission of KIT. We not only create and impart knowledge for society and the environment but also use this knowledge to develop applications for industry. Our goal is to help address global challenges facing humankind through pioneering research.

Founded in 1715, Karlsruhe is the second-largest city in the federal state of Baden-Württemberg (approx. 300,000 residents) in south-western Germany. It is also known as the "Residence of Justice", as the two highest German courts - the Federal Constitutional Court and the Federal Court of Justice – are located here. The proximity to the Alsace region in France and the mild climate along the Rhine give the Baden metropolis an almost Mediterranean flair in the summer. The city has a fan-shaped layout. Public transport and cycling networks are excellent, making the KIT campus easily accessible from all parts of the city.

The KIT campus is located along Kaiserstraße, the main street of Karlsruhe. It borders the Hardtwald Forest - the perfect spot for a stroll between lectures. The 60-hectare campus is a bustling hub for students and researchers alike, especially during the lecture periods.

Well-connected major cities include:

• Paris (west of Karlsruhe): approx. 2 hours and 40 minutes by high-speed train
• Frankfurt Airport (north of Karlsruhe): approx. 1 hour by high-speed train
• Stuttgart (east of Karlsruhe): approx. 53 minutes by regional train
• Munich (east of Karlsruhe): approx. 2 hours and 45 minutes by high-speed train
• Zurich (south of Karlsruhe): approx. 2 hours and 49 minutes by high-speed train