Intelligent Aerial Systems Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt

The programme provides knowledge in a challenging field of technology that is socially and environmentally relevant: autonomous flight systems contribute to sustainability, safety, and resilience (e.g. airspace monitoring, surveillance missions during wildfires, floods, and rescue operations).

The programme is characterised by an interdisciplinary curriculum that covers a broad range of technologies necessary to develop autonomous flight systems, spanning from computer science, systems engineering, and simulation, via robotics and AI (autonomy, path planning, decision-making algorithms) to communication technology.

The programme is designed for students interested in interdisciplinary issues related to the development of autonomous flight systems, who possess a strong affinity for technology and a willingness to innovate. Knowledge required to design and implement components of autonomous, intelligent and networked flight systems is provided. The focus is on acquiring skills needed to develop flight systems that use sensors, planning and control algorithms and Artificial Intelligence to perceive their environment and react to changing situations. Knowledge such as flight dynamics, control of flight systems and avionics is expanded by technologies such as sensor technology, machine learning, autonomous navigation and methods for determining optimal, safe and efficient flight paths for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is imparted. Students will be prepared to master the challenges of UAVs and drones — from urban use to scientific research in remote areas.

Differences in prior knowledge are addressed in the first semester by aligning competencies in areas like software development, control engineering, flight mechanics, and flight systems. Theoretical instruction is supplemented by practical exercises.

Modules in the following two semesters cover, among other topics, mathematical methods, models, and algorithms for flight control, navigation, environmental perception, and mission planning. Students will learn how to specify and implement software architectures for autonomous flight systems, mission planning and flight control algorithms, as well as the development of communication and coordination concepts. Methods related to systems engineering or to the computation of flight paths and of trajectory planning are applied in laboratory exercises.

A Bachelor's degree with 180 ECTS credits in Electrical and Information Technology, Aeronautical Engineering, Computer Science, or in a mathematics or science discipline is required. Applicants with relevant previous studies abroad require a VPD from uni-assist.

Applicants with a Bachelor's degree obtained in Germany or with EU citizenship will be granted admission without any further aptitude test, provided the general admission requirements are met. Applicants with a Bachelor's degree obtained in a non-EU country undergo a selection procedure, provided that the formal admission requirements are met.

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.

The campus is only a short walk from Ingolstadt's appealing old city. The view from the lecture halls is of a castle and other medieval buildings. Ingolstadt lies in the centre of Bavaria, one of the most prosperous German federal states, and it is only an hour by car from the metropolitan areas of Munich and Nuremberg. The opportunities to take part in leisure activities in the area — which is close to the Alps as well as to the beautiful Altmühl valley — are unlimited. With the headquarters of Audi (the international automotive company) and a large number of innovative corporations in the city, Ingolstadt is proud to be one of the strongest economic regions in Germany. Opportunities to participate in sports activities are provided by the university as well as by various amateur and competitive sports clubs. Bavarian charm and the Bavarian way of life — including summer evenings in beer gardens and the diverse cultural events on offer — make daily life in Ingolstadt particularly attractive for students.