Sustainable Maritime Engineering (SME) University of Rostock

Sustainable Maritime Engineering is an international Master's programme, focusing on maritime technologies – from the ocean’s surface to its deepest depths. It provides a broad, critical understanding of the field, emphasising a sustainable use of the world’s oceans while at the same time protecting them.

Students engage in interdisciplinary, application-oriented projects with options to specialise in Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering, or Underwater Technologies. Team projects are a key to fostering collaboration across the different specialisations.

The programme benefits from partnerships with regional industry and research institutes. It aligns with the University of Rostock’s strong maritime focus and aims to meet world-wide future maritime industry needs.

During the first three semesters, you will complete a combination of compulsory and optional modules worth a total of 90 credit points (30 credit points per semester). In the fourth semester, you will focus on your Master’s thesis (30 credit points) – which you can choose to write in collaboration with one of our industry or research partners.

In addition, there are integrated, subject-specific language courses in German and English as well as the opportunity to spend a semester abroad.

A key strength of this programme is its academic flexibility. You are encouraged to shape your own path and focus on those areas that are most important to you. Thus, semester two and three offer you the chance to choose a total of nine electives from a broad catalogue of more than 50 courses – giving you maximum flexibility to follow your interests and build your individual profile. Whether you want to deepen your knowledge in Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering or Underwater Technologies, this is where you shape your specialisation. But of course, if you need any guidance, we will be happy to support you along the way.

If you do not have a German citizenship, a German university entrance certificate or a graduation certificate from a German institution of higher education, you need to apply through UNI-ASSIST within the respective application periods:

• Summer semester: 1 October to 30 November each year
• Winter semester: 16 January to 30 April each year

In order to fulfil the academic requirements of this degree programme, you need to hold a Bachelor's certificate in engineering with at least 180 credit points or another equivalent degree with at least 75% of the CGPA (equivalent to the grade 2.5 in the German grading system) or with a comparable grade in a different grading system. Alternatively, a GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) with a minimum score of 500 is accepted.

Your transcripts need to show that you have in-depth knowledge in the fields of:

• Mathematics (equivalent to at least 15 credit points in the German system)
• Technical Mechanics (equivalent to at least 10 credit points in the German system)
• Fluid Mechanics/Hydrodynamics (equivalent to at least 5 credit points in the German system)

Note: For some countries, specific requirements on the duration of the Bachelor's studies apply.

In case you did not receive your degree certificate yet, you can apply with a current transcript of records or a provisional certificate of your Bachelor’s degree. Please note that you need to provide your Bachelor’s degree certificate by the time of your enrolment at the latest.

Studying at public universities in Germany is generally for free. The University of Rostock does not charge tuition. However, there is a small semester fee (around 350 EUR) that covers administrative costs. It also includes a ticket for public transport and gives you free access to many student services.

Compared to some other major European countries, the cost of living in Germany is reasonable. But there are of course variations within Germany itself. While living in large cities such as Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg or Berlin is expensive, prices in smaller cities such as Rostock are lower. As of 2025, the recommended minimum a single person (e.g. a student) in Rostock needs is at least 1,000 EUR per month or 12,000 EUR per year to cover living expenses. This includes rent, food, utilities, health insurance, clothes, transport, recreational activities and the semester fee. We strongly advise you not to come to Rostock if you are not certain how to cover your expected cost of living.

Further information on cost of living in Rostock

In addition to your studies, you can work part-time. Please note that the degree programme is designed as a full-time course of study but if you feel that you can keep up with the coursework and exams, you can usually organise your time flexibly and manage your schedule independently.

The University of Rostock offers some scholarships, and there are also external funding options. Please note that it is not guaranteed that you will receive funding or that the funding will cover your entire cost of living in Rostock. We strongly advise you not to come to Rostock if you are not certain how to cover your cost of living.

Financing/stipends

The University of Rostock offers free advice and services for students and doctoral candidates through its central Career Service.

The Center for Entrepreneurship of the University of Rostock offers free intensive consultation for students, covering all phases from idea generation to business model development and start-up.

Through their excellent connections to the ship and offshore industry as well as to research institutions, the teaching staff of the Master's programme in Sustainable Maritime Engineering offers individual consultations regarding career opportunities. Selected job advertisements can be found on the noticeboards in the faculty as well as on the programme websites.

Rostock's dormitory places are arranged and assigned by the student services organisation, “Studierendenwerk Rostock”. Their website provides information on location, facilities, and monthly rent. An application for a place in a dormitory can be filed online or downloaded and sent by mail to the following address:

Studierendenwerk Rostock – Wismar
Abt. Studentisches Wohnen
St.-Georg-Straße 104 – 107
18055 Rostock
Germany

The University of Rostock, founded in 1419, proudly stands as the oldest university in the Baltic region. Our motto, "Traditio et Innovatio" — tradition and innovation — perfectly encapsulates the spirit of our institution: a place where centuries of academic excellence meet a forward-looking openness to new ideas and change. We offer a broad range of subjects across ten distinct faculties, providing students with a dynamic and interdisciplinary education rooted in both depth and diversity. Our commitment to high-quality research and teaching, paired with exceptional student support services, ensures a well-rounded academic experience.

Studying at the University of Rostock is not just about academic achievement; it’s also an opportunity for significant personal and professional growth. Beyond gaining expertise in your field, you'll develop intercultural competence and proficiency in the German language, preparing you for success in a globalised world. Studying abroad here also provides a unique chance to build lasting international connections and friendships, laying the foundation for a truly global career.

One great way to make friends is the participation in the faculty's Waterbike Team or Hanseatic Efficiency Team. Students from different disciplines and backgrounds work jointly together on new concepts from design to fabrication. We are very proud of the successful history of both student teams in international competitions and continuously support their future ideas.

With a long tradition of welcoming international students and scholars, we are proud to extend our invitation to you to join our vibrant, diverse academic community. At the University of Rostock, you will become part of a rich history while being empowered to shape the future.

With a population of approximately 200,000, Rostock is the largest city and the economic heart of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. A historic Hanseatic and harbour town, Rostock offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, making it a vibrant place to live and study.

Located just a short half-hour bike ride from the stunning Baltic Sea coastline, the city provides an ideal balance between urban life and natural beauty. Rostock’s cultural scene is rich and varied, featuring theatres, museums, and numerous events throughout the year. For relaxation, you can explore the city’s zoo, botanical gardens, the expansive IGA park, or one of its many green spaces.

One of the highlights of the year is the Hanse Sail in August, an international maritime festival that attracts nearly a million visitors and sailing ships from across the globe. For students, the lively Kröpeliner-Tor-Vorstadt district is a hub of social life, offering a popular café and pub scene that fosters a strong sense of community.

Rostock combines the charm of a historic town with the excitement of modern city life, making it a unique place to experience both culture and coastal living.