Connected drones, autonomous flight missions, and artificial intelligence are transforming aviation and opening up new technological possibilities. With its new “Intelligent Aerial Systems” master’s program, Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt (THI) is positioning itself at the intersection of these key technologies. The program successfully launched in the winter semester 2026/27 with its first cohort of 14 students, including 12 graduates with German degrees and two with international degrees. Interest from abroad is already strong, with 26 applications from international degree holders received for the upcoming summer semester.
The program combines electrical and information engineering, aerospace engineering, and computer science with artificial intelligence. Students explore topics such as sensor technology, navigation, flight control, and machine learning. Practical projects and laboratory work complement the theoretical foundations.
Professor Simon Schwerd, Deputy Program Director, highlights the importance of this interdisciplinary approach: “High-performance intelligent aerial systems can only emerge through the interplay of different disciplines. Combining artificial intelligence, sensor technology, communication, and systems engineering opens up entirely new possibilities.”
Discover Research, Shape the Future
A key advantage of the program is its close connection to the Technology Transfer Center Unmanned Aerial Systems (TTZ). State-of-the-art research infrastructure, interdisciplinary teams, and collaboration with partners from academia and industry give students practical insights into current research challenges. They can experience firsthand how scientific findings are translated into real-world technological solutions.
The English-taught master’s program strengthens THI’s international profile and the innovative capacity of the Region 10 area. At the same time, it prepares skilled professionals for a rapidly evolving field, with applications ranging from autonomous aviation and new mobility solutions to defence technologies.
We wish our new students a successful start, exciting discoveries, and plenty of inspiring experiences as they help shape the future of intelligent aerial systems. We’re glad to have you on board – let’s take off!
