Foundations of Engineering Sciences
Covers basic physics and engineering concepts such as mechanics, thermodynamics, oscillations, waves, optics, and simple electrical problems.
Autonomous Vehicle Engineering
Autonomous Vehicle Engineering
Do you want to understand how the various technologies in autonomous vehicles work together, and do you enjoy working in international teams? If so, the English-taught Bachelor’s degree in Autonomous Vehicle Engineering at Ingolstadt University of Applied Sciences (THI), which brings together students from all over the world, is the right choice for you.
Here, alongside the key fundamentals of engineering, mathematics and computer science, you’ll acquire all the specialist knowledge needed to pursue a career in this highly exciting, forward-looking field:
sensor technology, sensor systems and sensor data fusion for detecting and mapping the environment; the processing of the information gathered to develop a driving strategy using software and intelligent algorithms; and the safe implementation of the driving strategy through the control and regulation of actuators. During a placement semester, you’ll gain professional experience at a company in Germany or abroad. You’ll complete your degree with a Bachelor’s thesis.
Occupational fields and career prospects
Due to the great future potential of automated driving technologies, specialised professions are increasingly emerging that are focused on the development of autonomous mobility. These are characterised by expertise in computer science, sensor technology, control technology and machine learning - expertise that the degree programme teaches. Development engineers for autonomous driving are primarily employed by vehicle producers themselves, but also by many supplier companies. These include companies in the IT, electrical and computer industries that develop and produce technical components for autonomous driving in the form of hardware and software. Development engineers for autonomous driving also find promising jobs in research institutes, at state authorities or at universities.
Curriculum Autonomous Vehicle Engineering
1st Semester
Foundations of Engineering Sciences
<p>Covers basic physics and engineering concepts such as mechanics, thermodynamics, oscillations, waves, optics, and simple electrical problems.</p>
Programming 1
<p>Provides programming basics using Python, including control structures, data types, and object-oriented programming concepts.</p>
Foundations of Computer Science
<p>Introduces computer architecture, instruction sets, and low-level programming, including assembly language and performance considerations.</p>
Mathematics 1
<p>Covers fundamental concepts of analysis and linear algebra, including functions, integrals, matrices, and complex numbers, applied to solving technical problems. </p>
Electronics, Signals and Measurement
<p>Covers circuit analysis, signal measurement, RLC circuits, frequency analysis, and fundamentals of semiconductor devices.</p>
Programming 2
<p>Focuses on object-oriented programming in C++, testing methods, and developing medium-sized software projects.</p>
Algorithms and Data Structures
<p>Teaches algorithm analysis, runtime and memory evaluation, and selection and implementation of suitable data structures.</p>
Statistics
<p>Introduces data analysis, probability, distributions, regression, and statistical methods for interpreting and evaluating datasets.</p>
Mathematics 2
<p>Extends mathematics to multivariable calculus, integrals, differential equations, and Laplace transforms with engineering applications. </p>
General Elective Subject
Digital Signal Processing
<p>Covers signal analysis in time and frequency domains, filtering, system design, and Fourier transforms using MATLAB. </p>
Modelling and Simulation
<p>Focuses on modeling dynamic systems, simulation with tools like MATLAB/Simulink, and parameter estimation and validation.</p>
Vehicle Dynamics
<p>Explains vehicle behavior, tire characteristics, drivetrain interaction, and stability systems like ABS and torque vectoring. </p>
Model-based SW-Engineering
<p>Introduces UML modeling, software design patterns, and model-based development for structuring and analyzing software systems. </p>
Scientific Seminar
<p>Develops scientific research, presentation, and discussion skills through independent study and communication of technical topics.</p>
Control Engineering
<p>Teaches system modeling, controller design, stability analysis, and implementation of control systems.</p>
Vehicle Electronics and Vehicle Communication Networks
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Covers automotive electronics, sensors, actuators, and communication systems used in modern vehicles.</span></p>
Foundations of Machine Learning
<p>Provides fundamentals of machine learning, including model selection, implementation, and evaluation using Python.</p>
SW-Development Processes
<p>Introduces software lifecycle models, agile and classical methods, requirements engineering, and testing strategies. </p>
Internship
<p>Introduces software lifecycle models, agile and classical methods, requirements engineering, and testing strategies. </p>
Business Management
<p>Introduces business administration principles, economic relationships, and decision-making in organizational contexts. </p>
PLV
<p>Reflection on project experiences and presentation of key internship results. Presentation skills are strengthened through structured feedback.</p>
Vehicle-to-X-Communication
<p>Introduces communication networks for connected vehicles, protocols, architectures, and evaluation of current systems.</p>
Project
<p>Team-based engineering project focusing on problem-solving, collaboration, project management, and presentation of results. </p>
Sensor Data Processing and Sensor Data Fusion
<p>Covers estimation theory, sensor fusion, Kalman filtering, and tracking and SLAM algorithms for multi-sensor systems.</p>
Planning and Decision Making Algorithms
<p>Focuses on planning algorithms (e.g., A*, RRT) and decision-making methods for autonomous systems under uncertainty.</p>
Vehicle Actuators
<p>Explains mechatronic systems, actuators, drivetrain components, and their integration in automated vehicle systems. </p>
Scientific Elective Subject 1
Scientific Elective Subject 2
Scientific Elective Subject 3
Bachelor’s Thesis (including colloquium)
<p>Independent research project applying scientific methods to solve a technical problem, including documentation and presentation. </p>
| 1. Semester | |
|---|---|
| 2. Semester | |
| 3. Semester | |
| 4. Semester | |
| 5. Semester | |
| 6. Semester | |
| 7. Semester |
Application
The programme Autonomous Vehicle Engineering starts in the winter semester only. Since the programme is not subject to admission restrictions, applications are submitted exclusively via the PRIMUSS-application portal THI.
Information on the application period and the application procedure can be found here: "Application for a Bachelor study course".
Requirements
Prerequisite for admission to study at Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt is either a general or subject-related higher education entrance qualification or the entrance qualification for studies at universities of applied sciences.
Important Information for Applicants
Please take note of our Statutes for International Orientation and Selection Procedures as well as the procedural elements chosen for this bachelor's degree program.
Applicants who have achieved a total score of 70 points or more will be invited to a short online selection interview. A pass in the selection interview leads to admission. The interviews will take place from mid-June to the end of July 2026. The faculty will inform invited applicants by email about the specific interview date.
Programme Documents
I would love to know, with my grades, whether I am eligible for admission to this university.
The admission process is structured as follows:
1. uni-assist: from as soon as possible until 30 May the latest for the winter semester
If you obtained your higher secondary school certificate outside of Germany, uni-assist has to verify your eligibility to study in Germany and to convert school grades to the German grading system. You will have to submit all required documents to uni-assist online. The process takes four to six weeks.
2. PRIMUSS – THI application portal: from 2 May until 15 July for the winter semester
You will have to apply online at the PRIMUSS university application portal. In case of admission, you will have to send all required documents additionally by post later on.
Please check the THI website to get up-to-date information regarding the application periods.
Admission requirements are an admission to university (secondary school certificate) and sufficient knowledge of the English language (see more details below). In an aptitude assessment procedure, the applicant must also prove eligibility to admission. The aptitude is determined by an evaluation of certificates based on the following criteria: average mark of the secondary school certificate and subject-specific individual grades. The marks listed in the secondary school certificate in the subject mathematics and two subjects from the natural sciences including computer science graded best are used as subject-specific individual marks. The grades are converted into points and a total point score is calculated as a weighted average of the above criteria. If the total points value is above the expected threshold, suitability is considered to be established and admission is given.
Do I have to provide a motivation letter? Would recommendation letters benefit my application?
No, you do not have to provide a motivation letter or any recommendation letters. The necessary application documents are listed in the application portal.
I am writing this to ask you about the proof of enrollment document and expense breakdown document. Can you please share those with me as embassy is asking me to show these?
Sorry, but we do not provide these services nor information. We do not have any contacts to any embassies and no insights into the visa processes.
Do I need IELTS for this programme or I can just apply with MOI? Could you provide some information about the English language requirement?
Since the program is entirely taught in English, of course proficiency of the English language is necessary. If your medium of instruction (MOI) of your secondary school was English, you do not have to provide additional proof of English language skills. If your MOI in school was different from English you will have to provide IELTS, Cambridge, TOEFL or similar certificates.
Do I have to learn German?
For successful completion of the AVE courses, background knowledge in mathematics, physics, and computer science are beneficial. Students are encouraged to learn German in parallel to their studies, because this will be beneficial in order to find a company for the mandatory internship planned for the fifth semester.
Is there an enrolment/application fee?
Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt does not cooperate with recruitment agencies. Applicants will have to apply on their own. Apart from the uni-assist fee, there is no registration/application fee.
Are scholarships available?
There are different scholarships available to enrolled students, such as the Deutschlandstipendium. Talent Promotion/Scholarships (thi.de) All students will have to look and apply for specific scholarships themselves! Most scholarship programmes are based on performance (grades, voluntary work, etc.). The economic situation of applicants is usually not taken into consideration. A certain level of German language skills (at least B2) is required for many scholarships.
The International Office also offers scholarships. Enrolled international students will be notified of the call once a year via the communication channels of the university.
Is it possible to get online enrollment?
The enrollment process can be completed remotely. The enrollment has to be completed within the first 4 weeks of the semester.
Is it possible to get an online class of any course from my program or is there any opportunity to defer the semester or late arrival permission?
We do not offer any online classes. For most classes all materials are available online via Moodle for self-study. If you completed the enrollment process, you do not need any additional documents as you are a full student of THI, no matter if you join classes or not.
It is not possible to defer your admission to a later semester.
To take the exams you will have to be present in Ingolstadt. Please note that as soon as you enrolled, your study period will not be extended if you cannot be present in Ingolstadt for the lectures or exams.
Is there any opportunity to do my first semester online?
No, we do not offer any online classes.
Would the programme grant me a possible career future in Germany if I plan/intend to work in Germany after graduating?
Autonomous Vehicle Engineering is a study programme designed to qualify students to work at the interface between Hardware and Software. This means students will gain a deep understanding of electrical engineering and electronics, as well as signal processing and software development. Due to this broad training in a relevant field of modern technology, career opportunities after graduating are not limited to the field of automated driving or the automotive industry.
Any questions?
Do you have any questions about applications, admission, enrolment, student finance, accommodation or other general topics? If so, please use our contact form and select the relevant topic. This will ensure your enquiry is sent directly to the relevant contact person(s) and can be answered quickly and effectively.
Contact only for content-related questions:
-
Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Martin Ebert
Programme director "Autonomous Vehicle Engineering" (B. Eng.)
Further contact persons:
Other programmes you may be interested in
-
![[Translate to English:]](data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHdpZHRoPSI2MDAiIGhlaWdodD0iNDAwIi8+ "[Translate to English:]")
Electrical Engineering and Electric Mobility
Bachelor of Engineering (B. Eng.)
At the core of Electrical Engineering and Electric Mobility are electric drives, battery systems, power electronics and charging infrastructure. The curriculum connects energy storage, thermal management and vehicle integration. Particular emphasis is placed on end-to-end engineering of electrified vehicles and mobility systems.
About the degree program -
Aircraft and Vehicle Informatics
Bachelor of Science (B. Sc.)
Aircraft and Vehicle Informatics combines in-depth computer science with modern mobility technologies. The focus is on software solutions for vehicles, aircraft and connected systems, as well as future-oriented topics such as autonomous mobility, safety and cyber security.
About the degree program -
Automotive Engineering
Bachelor of Engineering (B. Eng.)
Developing and building the automobile of tomorrow: This bachelor's degree is specifically geared to the current topics in the development and production of future-oriented vehicles.
About the degree program -
Automated Driving and Vehicle Safety
Master of Engineering (M. Eng.)
Autonomous vehicles and self-driving systems are set to transform the future of mobility. Ensuring the safety of all road users remains a key priority in this rapidly evolving field. In this Master’s programme, you will deepen your expertise in computer science and engineering while exploring the technologies behind automated and connected driving. Studying at one of Bavaria’s leading research universities, you will engage with cutting-edge developments in areas such as artificial intelligence, sensor technologies, vehicle systems, and autonomous mobility, preparing you for advanced roles in research, development, and the automotive industry.
About the degree program
![[Translate to English:]](/fileadmin/_processed_/image-enhancer/53086/ROBOCAR_Haende-1379x919-crop-default-10-112-1379-776.webp "[Translate to English:]")
![[Translate to English:] Interaktion Drohnen und Fahrzeuge](/fileadmin/_processed_/image-enhancer/50549/FFI_iStock-1023344400-817x544-crop-default-0-207-817-460.webp)
Autonomous Vehicle Engineering
Do you want to understand how the various technologies in autonomous vehicles work together, and do you enjoy working in international teams? If so, the English-taught Bachelor’s degree in Autonomous Vehicle Engineering at Ingolstadt University of Applied Sciences (THI), which brings together students from all over the world, is the right choice for you.
Here, alongside the key fundamentals of engineering, mathematics and computer science, you’ll acquire all the specialist knowledge needed to pursue a career in this highly exciting, forward-looking field:
sensor technology, sensor systems and sensor data fusion for detecting and mapping the environment; the processing of the information gathered to develop a driving strategy using software and intelligent algorithms; and the safe implementation of the driving strategy through the control and regulation of actuators. During a placement semester, you’ll gain professional experience at a company in Germany or abroad. You’ll complete your degree with a Bachelor’s thesis.
Occupational fields and career prospects
Due to the great future potential of automated driving technologies, specialised professions are increasingly emerging that are focused on the development of autonomous mobility. These are characterised by expertise in computer science, sensor technology, control technology and machine learning - expertise that the degree programme teaches. Development engineers for autonomous driving are primarily employed by vehicle producers themselves, but also by many supplier companies. These include companies in the IT, electrical and computer industries that develop and produce technical components for autonomous driving in the form of hardware and software. Development engineers for autonomous driving also find promising jobs in research institutes, at state authorities or at universities.
Curriculum Autonomous Vehicle Engineering
1st Semester
Foundations of Engineering Sciences
<p>Covers basic physics and engineering concepts such as mechanics, thermodynamics, oscillations, waves, optics, and simple electrical problems.</p>
Programming 1
<p>Provides programming basics using Python, including control structures, data types, and object-oriented programming concepts.</p>
Foundations of Computer Science
<p>Introduces computer architecture, instruction sets, and low-level programming, including assembly language and performance considerations.</p>
Mathematics 1
<p>Covers fundamental concepts of analysis and linear algebra, including functions, integrals, matrices, and complex numbers, applied to solving technical problems. </p>
Electronics, Signals and Measurement
<p>Covers circuit analysis, signal measurement, RLC circuits, frequency analysis, and fundamentals of semiconductor devices.</p>
Programming 2
<p>Focuses on object-oriented programming in C++, testing methods, and developing medium-sized software projects.</p>
Algorithms and Data Structures
<p>Teaches algorithm analysis, runtime and memory evaluation, and selection and implementation of suitable data structures.</p>
Statistics
<p>Introduces data analysis, probability, distributions, regression, and statistical methods for interpreting and evaluating datasets.</p>
Mathematics 2
<p>Extends mathematics to multivariable calculus, integrals, differential equations, and Laplace transforms with engineering applications. </p>
General Elective Subject
Digital Signal Processing
<p>Covers signal analysis in time and frequency domains, filtering, system design, and Fourier transforms using MATLAB. </p>
Modelling and Simulation
<p>Focuses on modeling dynamic systems, simulation with tools like MATLAB/Simulink, and parameter estimation and validation.</p>
Vehicle Dynamics
<p>Explains vehicle behavior, tire characteristics, drivetrain interaction, and stability systems like ABS and torque vectoring. </p>
Model-based SW-Engineering
<p>Introduces UML modeling, software design patterns, and model-based development for structuring and analyzing software systems. </p>
Scientific Seminar
<p>Develops scientific research, presentation, and discussion skills through independent study and communication of technical topics.</p>
Control Engineering
<p>Teaches system modeling, controller design, stability analysis, and implementation of control systems.</p>
Vehicle Electronics and Vehicle Communication Networks
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Covers automotive electronics, sensors, actuators, and communication systems used in modern vehicles.</span></p>
Foundations of Machine Learning
<p>Provides fundamentals of machine learning, including model selection, implementation, and evaluation using Python.</p>
SW-Development Processes
<p>Introduces software lifecycle models, agile and classical methods, requirements engineering, and testing strategies. </p>
Internship
<p>Introduces software lifecycle models, agile and classical methods, requirements engineering, and testing strategies. </p>
Business Management
<p>Introduces business administration principles, economic relationships, and decision-making in organizational contexts. </p>
PLV
<p>Reflection on project experiences and presentation of key internship results. Presentation skills are strengthened through structured feedback.</p>
Vehicle-to-X-Communication
<p>Introduces communication networks for connected vehicles, protocols, architectures, and evaluation of current systems.</p>
Project
<p>Team-based engineering project focusing on problem-solving, collaboration, project management, and presentation of results. </p>
Sensor Data Processing and Sensor Data Fusion
<p>Covers estimation theory, sensor fusion, Kalman filtering, and tracking and SLAM algorithms for multi-sensor systems.</p>
Planning and Decision Making Algorithms
<p>Focuses on planning algorithms (e.g., A*, RRT) and decision-making methods for autonomous systems under uncertainty.</p>
Vehicle Actuators
<p>Explains mechatronic systems, actuators, drivetrain components, and their integration in automated vehicle systems. </p>
Scientific Elective Subject 1
Scientific Elective Subject 2
Scientific Elective Subject 3
Bachelor’s Thesis (including colloquium)
<p>Independent research project applying scientific methods to solve a technical problem, including documentation and presentation. </p>
| 1. Semester | |
|---|---|
| 2. Semester | |
| 3. Semester | |
| 4. Semester | |
| 5. Semester | |
| 6. Semester | |
| 7. Semester |
Application
The programme Autonomous Vehicle Engineering starts in the winter semester only. Since the programme is not subject to admission restrictions, applications are submitted exclusively via the PRIMUSS-application portal THI.
Information on the application period and the application procedure can be found here: "Application for a Bachelor study course".
Requirements
Prerequisite for admission to study at Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt is either a general or subject-related higher education entrance qualification or the entrance qualification for studies at universities of applied sciences.
Important Information for Applicants
Please take note of our Statutes for International Orientation and Selection Procedures as well as the procedural elements chosen for this bachelor's degree program.
Applicants who have achieved a total score of 70 points or more will be invited to a short online selection interview. A pass in the selection interview leads to admission. The interviews will take place from mid-June to the end of July 2026. The faculty will inform invited applicants by email about the specific interview date.
Programme Documents
I would love to know, with my grades, whether I am eligible for admission to this university.
The admission process is structured as follows:
1. uni-assist: from as soon as possible until 30 May the latest for the winter semester
If you obtained your higher secondary school certificate outside of Germany, uni-assist has to verify your eligibility to study in Germany and to convert school grades to the German grading system. You will have to submit all required documents to uni-assist online. The process takes four to six weeks.
2. PRIMUSS – THI application portal: from 2 May until 15 July for the winter semester
You will have to apply online at the PRIMUSS university application portal. In case of admission, you will have to send all required documents additionally by post later on.
Please check the THI website to get up-to-date information regarding the application periods.
Admission requirements are an admission to university (secondary school certificate) and sufficient knowledge of the English language (see more details below). In an aptitude assessment procedure, the applicant must also prove eligibility to admission. The aptitude is determined by an evaluation of certificates based on the following criteria: average mark of the secondary school certificate and subject-specific individual grades. The marks listed in the secondary school certificate in the subject mathematics and two subjects from the natural sciences including computer science graded best are used as subject-specific individual marks. The grades are converted into points and a total point score is calculated as a weighted average of the above criteria. If the total points value is above the expected threshold, suitability is considered to be established and admission is given.
Do I have to provide a motivation letter? Would recommendation letters benefit my application?
No, you do not have to provide a motivation letter or any recommendation letters. The necessary application documents are listed in the application portal.
I am writing this to ask you about the proof of enrollment document and expense breakdown document. Can you please share those with me as embassy is asking me to show these?
Sorry, but we do not provide these services nor information. We do not have any contacts to any embassies and no insights into the visa processes.
Do I need IELTS for this programme or I can just apply with MOI? Could you provide some information about the English language requirement?
Since the program is entirely taught in English, of course proficiency of the English language is necessary. If your medium of instruction (MOI) of your secondary school was English, you do not have to provide additional proof of English language skills. If your MOI in school was different from English you will have to provide IELTS, Cambridge, TOEFL or similar certificates.
Do I have to learn German?
For successful completion of the AVE courses, background knowledge in mathematics, physics, and computer science are beneficial. Students are encouraged to learn German in parallel to their studies, because this will be beneficial in order to find a company for the mandatory internship planned for the fifth semester.
Is there an enrolment/application fee?
Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt does not cooperate with recruitment agencies. Applicants will have to apply on their own. Apart from the uni-assist fee, there is no registration/application fee.
Are scholarships available?
There are different scholarships available to enrolled students, such as the Deutschlandstipendium. Talent Promotion/Scholarships (thi.de) All students will have to look and apply for specific scholarships themselves! Most scholarship programmes are based on performance (grades, voluntary work, etc.). The economic situation of applicants is usually not taken into consideration. A certain level of German language skills (at least B2) is required for many scholarships.
The International Office also offers scholarships. Enrolled international students will be notified of the call once a year via the communication channels of the university.
Is it possible to get online enrollment?
The enrollment process can be completed remotely. The enrollment has to be completed within the first 4 weeks of the semester.
Is it possible to get an online class of any course from my program or is there any opportunity to defer the semester or late arrival permission?
We do not offer any online classes. For most classes all materials are available online via Moodle for self-study. If you completed the enrollment process, you do not need any additional documents as you are a full student of THI, no matter if you join classes or not.
It is not possible to defer your admission to a later semester.
To take the exams you will have to be present in Ingolstadt. Please note that as soon as you enrolled, your study period will not be extended if you cannot be present in Ingolstadt for the lectures or exams.
Is there any opportunity to do my first semester online?
No, we do not offer any online classes.
Would the programme grant me a possible career future in Germany if I plan/intend to work in Germany after graduating?
Autonomous Vehicle Engineering is a study programme designed to qualify students to work at the interface between Hardware and Software. This means students will gain a deep understanding of electrical engineering and electronics, as well as signal processing and software development. Due to this broad training in a relevant field of modern technology, career opportunities after graduating are not limited to the field of automated driving or the automotive industry.
Any questions?
Do you have any questions about applications, admission, enrolment, student finance, accommodation or other general topics? If so, please use our contact form and select the relevant topic. This will ensure your enquiry is sent directly to the relevant contact person(s) and can be answered quickly and effectively.
Contact only for content-related questions:
-
Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Martin Ebert
Programme director "Autonomous Vehicle Engineering" (B. Eng.)
Further contact persons:
Other programmes you may be interested in
-
Electrical Engineering and Electric Mobility
Bachelor of Engineering (B. Eng.)
At the core of Electrical Engineering and Electric Mobility are electric drives, battery systems, power electronics and charging infrastructure. The curriculum connects energy storage, thermal management and vehicle integration. Particular emphasis is placed on end-to-end engineering of electrified vehicles and mobility systems.
About the degree program -
Aircraft and Vehicle Informatics
Bachelor of Science (B. Sc.)
Aircraft and Vehicle Informatics combines in-depth computer science with modern mobility technologies. The focus is on software solutions for vehicles, aircraft and connected systems, as well as future-oriented topics such as autonomous mobility, safety and cyber security.
About the degree program -
Automotive Engineering
Bachelor of Engineering (B. Eng.)
Developing and building the automobile of tomorrow: This bachelor's degree is specifically geared to the current topics in the development and production of future-oriented vehicles.
About the degree program -
Automated Driving and Vehicle Safety
Master of Engineering (M. Eng.)
Autonomous vehicles and self-driving systems are set to transform the future of mobility. Ensuring the safety of all road users remains a key priority in this rapidly evolving field. In this Master’s programme, you will deepen your expertise in computer science and engineering while exploring the technologies behind automated and connected driving. Studying at one of Bavaria’s leading research universities, you will engage with cutting-edge developments in areas such as artificial intelligence, sensor technologies, vehicle systems, and autonomous mobility, preparing you for advanced roles in research, development, and the automotive industry.
About the degree program