Principles of Programming and Software Development
Introduces programming in Python, including data structures, object-oriented design, and software engineering concepts such as lifecycle, modeling, and development methods.
International Automotive Engineering
International Automotive Engineering
The English-taught Master’s programme in International Automotive Engineering at THI will train you to become an expert in the development of mechatronic systems for the automotive industry. You will learn how to devise solutions to specific challenges in the development of electronic systems in general, and vehicle safety systems in particular.
During the first three semesters of the Master’s programme, you will acquire in-depth specialist knowledge in areas including electrified powertrains, vehicle-specific sensors and actuators, functional development, and the development and validation of driver assistance and vehicle safety systems. Through projects and seminars with students from all over the world, you will also develop skills in intercultural communication and collaboration. You will then complete your Master’s thesis in the fourth semester.
Upon successfully completing your Master’s degree, you can begin your career in industry as a development engineer for electronic or mechatronic systems in motor vehicles, working to enhance comfort and safety.
Career perspectives
Basically, graduates will work as development engineers for electronic/mechatronic systems of automobiles used to increase comfort and safety.
Online Master-Talk for prospective students on 9 November 2026 at 6.30 p.m.
Curriculum International Automotive Engineering
1st Semester
Principles of Programming and Software Development
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Introduces programming in Python, including data structures, object-oriented design, and software engineering concepts such as lifecycle, modeling, and development methods.</span></p>
Principles of Signal Processing, Data Analysis and Machine Learning
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Covers signal analysis, filtering, and Fourier methods, combined with fundamentals of machine learning and model selection for data-driven applications.</span></p>
Principles of Mathematical Modelling and Control Engineering
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Focuses on modeling dynamic systems, deriving equations, analyzing stability, and designing controllers using simulation and control theory.</span></p>
Automotive Electrical and Electronic Technology
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Explains automotive electronic systems, sensors, actuators, control units, and communication networks used in modern vehicles.</span></p>
Engineering Project
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Team-based project work emphasizing practical engineering problem-solving, communication, planning, and interdisciplinary collaboration.</span></p>
Research Methods
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Develops skills in scientific research, literature analysis, writing, presentation, and critical discussion of technical topics.</span></p>
Automotive ECUs and Software Architectures
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Covers design and functionality of automotive ECUs, embedded systems, software architectures, and AUTOSAR-based development.</span></p>
Testing and Simulation Methods for Vehicle Safety Systems
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Covers testing strategies and simulation approaches for validating automotive safety systems throughout development.</span></p>
Integrated Safety and Assistance Systems
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Focuses on driver assistance and safety systems, including system components, algorithms, motion planning, and evaluation methods.</span></p>
Vehicle Dynamics
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Covers tire behavior, vehicle models, and interactions of drivetrain and chassis components, including stability and control systems.</span></p>
German Language Elective
Scientific Elective
Automotive Systems Engineering Processes
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Explains systems engineering methods for vehicle development, including requirements, architecture, testing, and integration of complex systems.</span></p>
Electric Drive Train
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Provides knowledge of electric and hybrid drivetrains, energy management, charging systems, and simulation of performance and efficiency.</span></p>
Sensor Technology and Statistical Signal Processing
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Introduces automotive sensors, signal analysis, statistical processing, and sensor fusion using algorithms such as Kalman filters.</span></p>
Power Supply and Energy Distribution
Team Project
Scientific Elective
Master-Thesis and Master-Colloquium
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Independent research project addressing a complex engineering problem using scientific methods, including documentation and presentation.</span></p>
| 1. Semester | |
|---|---|
| 2. Semester | |
| 3. Semester | |
| 4. Semester |
Structure
Compulsory modules
Compulsory modules of the curriculum impart well-founded specialist skills in the following areas: functions and structures of electrified drives, features and application forms of vehicle-specific sensors and actuators, function development, realization and validation of driver assistance and vehicle safety systems as well as on the hierarchical process of developing such systems. This enables students to specify and implement mechatronic driver assistance and vehicle safety systems. In projects and seminars, students also acquire skills and abilities relating to communication, cooperation and conflicts in intra- and intercultural contexts.
Communication and intercultural competence
English as language of instruction and internationally composed groups of students encourage foreign language skills as well as dealing with cultural differences. However, acquisition of knowledge of the German language at level A2 is encouraged by means of a compulsory language course.
Applying for a degree course
The programme starts in summer term (March 15th) as well as in winter term (October 1st).
Please apply online in our Primuss portal - please find all information on master application follwing this link.
Requirements
A Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline with 180 ECTS credit points is required. For application, we ask for a copy of the degree certification as well as of the transcript of records/grade sheet. Provisional certificates and transcripts as available are accepted. However, in case of admission the final certificate must be shown at registration/enrollment. Master's applicants with relevant previous studies outside Germany require a VPD from uni-assist.
Documents
In addition, we ask for sufficient English language skills, documented by a certification of level B2. The proof is not required provided the university entrance qualification certificate (certification of secondary school) or the Bachelor's degree was acquired in English or the applicant possesses the citizenship of a country in which English is the native language.
Knowledgeof the German language at level A1 is required for the further course of study. A certification is not required for admission, but must be provided by the end of the first semester.
During the course of study, we encourage students to improve their German language skills to level A2 by offering the ‘German Language Elective’ programme.
Check details on Language Requirements
Important Information for Applicants
- Applicants with a bachelor's degree obtained in Germany or with EU citizenship will be admitted without further aptitude test, provided that the general admission requirements are met.
- Applicants with a bachelor’s degree obtained abroad will undergo a selection process, provided that the general entry requirements are met.
The selection process consists of two stages. Stage 1 involves a curriculum analysis. This examines the nature and scope of the modules in which skills are taught that suggest the applicant is likely to successfully complete the Master’s programme. Furthermore, an assessment is made of the thematic and subject-specific relevance of the Bachelor’s thesis to the development of mechatronic systems. Applicants who have achieved a total score of 60 points or more will be invited to a short online selection interview. A successful interview will result in admission.
The interviews will take place from mid-June to the end of July 2026. The faculty will inform invited applicants of the specific interview date by email.
Please note the Statutes for International Orientation and Selection Procedures as well as the procedural elements chosen for this master's degree program.
Is the degree recognized in Germany and abroad?
Yes.
How many places are offered each semester?
Currently, we accept between 20 and 25 students each semester.
I don't have a comprehensive background in electronics. Can I apply?
Yes, the programme is open for mechanical engineers as well as electrical engineers. You must be open for electronic/mechatronic subjects. The programme is not a specialization in a specific area of the mechanics of automobiles.
What is meant by 'International'?
First, the term 'International' in the programme's name indicates that our aim is to prepare our students to collaborate in international teams. Second it refers to fact that the language of instruction is English.
Can I work on a PhD after completing the programme?
After completion of the programme you have the opportunity to do a PhD. Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt offers a wide range of opportunities in applied research for those interested in a doctorate.
Here you will find all further information on this topic:
Doctoral School
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. Armin Arnold
Programme director and Academic advisor " International Automotive Engineering" (Master)
Other programmes you may be interested in
-
Automotive Engineering
Master of Engineering (M. Eng.)
The Master of Automotive Engineering offers in-depth training in the development of future-oriented motor vehicles with a focus on powertrains, bodywork and mechatronic systems.
About the degree program -
Autonomous Vehicle Engineering
Bachelor of Engineering (B. Eng.)
Automated driving is shaping the future of mobility. This English-taught bachelor's degree programme focuses on the latest advances in sensor technologies, intelligent algorithms and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Students gain the expertise needed to develop next-generation mobility solutions and are well prepared for careers with automotive manufacturers, technology companies and leading industry suppliers.
About the degree program -
AI Engineering of Autonomous Systems
Master of Engineering (M. Eng.)
Discover the transformative potential of autonomous systems and how they are reshaping industries from mobility, transportation and logistics to healthcare and agriculture using artificial intelligence techniques. Join us at TH Ingolstadt, one of the leading Universities of Applied Science in Germany, and explore the design, applications, benefits, and future impact of these cutting-edge technologies.
About the degree program -
Automotive Production Engineering
Master of Engineering (M. Eng.)
Automotive Production Engineering focuses on automotive manufacturing, factory planning, automation and production systems. The curriculum connects connected equipment, process optimisation and AI-enabled operations. The result is efficient, flexible and data-driven production environments. The programme combines rigorous analysis with application-oriented subject knowledge.
About the degree program
International Automotive Engineering
The English-taught Master’s programme in International Automotive Engineering at THI will train you to become an expert in the development of mechatronic systems for the automotive industry. You will learn how to devise solutions to specific challenges in the development of electronic systems in general, and vehicle safety systems in particular.
During the first three semesters of the Master’s programme, you will acquire in-depth specialist knowledge in areas including electrified powertrains, vehicle-specific sensors and actuators, functional development, and the development and validation of driver assistance and vehicle safety systems. Through projects and seminars with students from all over the world, you will also develop skills in intercultural communication and collaboration. You will then complete your Master’s thesis in the fourth semester.
Upon successfully completing your Master’s degree, you can begin your career in industry as a development engineer for electronic or mechatronic systems in motor vehicles, working to enhance comfort and safety.
Career perspectives
Basically, graduates will work as development engineers for electronic/mechatronic systems of automobiles used to increase comfort and safety.
Online Master-Talk for prospective students on 9 November 2026 at 6.30 p.m.
Curriculum International Automotive Engineering
1st Semester
Principles of Programming and Software Development
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Introduces programming in Python, including data structures, object-oriented design, and software engineering concepts such as lifecycle, modeling, and development methods.</span></p>
Principles of Signal Processing, Data Analysis and Machine Learning
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Covers signal analysis, filtering, and Fourier methods, combined with fundamentals of machine learning and model selection for data-driven applications.</span></p>
Principles of Mathematical Modelling and Control Engineering
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Focuses on modeling dynamic systems, deriving equations, analyzing stability, and designing controllers using simulation and control theory.</span></p>
Automotive Electrical and Electronic Technology
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Explains automotive electronic systems, sensors, actuators, control units, and communication networks used in modern vehicles.</span></p>
Engineering Project
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Team-based project work emphasizing practical engineering problem-solving, communication, planning, and interdisciplinary collaboration.</span></p>
Research Methods
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Develops skills in scientific research, literature analysis, writing, presentation, and critical discussion of technical topics.</span></p>
Automotive ECUs and Software Architectures
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Covers design and functionality of automotive ECUs, embedded systems, software architectures, and AUTOSAR-based development.</span></p>
Testing and Simulation Methods for Vehicle Safety Systems
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Covers testing strategies and simulation approaches for validating automotive safety systems throughout development.</span></p>
Integrated Safety and Assistance Systems
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Focuses on driver assistance and safety systems, including system components, algorithms, motion planning, and evaluation methods.</span></p>
Vehicle Dynamics
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Covers tire behavior, vehicle models, and interactions of drivetrain and chassis components, including stability and control systems.</span></p>
German Language Elective
Scientific Elective
Automotive Systems Engineering Processes
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Explains systems engineering methods for vehicle development, including requirements, architecture, testing, and integration of complex systems.</span></p>
Electric Drive Train
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Provides knowledge of electric and hybrid drivetrains, energy management, charging systems, and simulation of performance and efficiency.</span></p>
Sensor Technology and Statistical Signal Processing
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Introduces automotive sensors, signal analysis, statistical processing, and sensor fusion using algorithms such as Kalman filters.</span></p>
Power Supply and Energy Distribution
Team Project
Scientific Elective
Master-Thesis and Master-Colloquium
<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;">Independent research project addressing a complex engineering problem using scientific methods, including documentation and presentation.</span></p>
| 1. Semester | |
|---|---|
| 2. Semester | |
| 3. Semester | |
| 4. Semester |
Structure
Compulsory modules
Compulsory modules of the curriculum impart well-founded specialist skills in the following areas: functions and structures of electrified drives, features and application forms of vehicle-specific sensors and actuators, function development, realization and validation of driver assistance and vehicle safety systems as well as on the hierarchical process of developing such systems. This enables students to specify and implement mechatronic driver assistance and vehicle safety systems. In projects and seminars, students also acquire skills and abilities relating to communication, cooperation and conflicts in intra- and intercultural contexts.
Communication and intercultural competence
English as language of instruction and internationally composed groups of students encourage foreign language skills as well as dealing with cultural differences. However, acquisition of knowledge of the German language at level A2 is encouraged by means of a compulsory language course.
Applying for a degree course
The programme starts in summer term (March 15th) as well as in winter term (October 1st).
Please apply online in our Primuss portal - please find all information on master application follwing this link.
Requirements
A Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline with 180 ECTS credit points is required. For application, we ask for a copy of the degree certification as well as of the transcript of records/grade sheet. Provisional certificates and transcripts as available are accepted. However, in case of admission the final certificate must be shown at registration/enrollment. Master's applicants with relevant previous studies outside Germany require a VPD from uni-assist.
Documents
In addition, we ask for sufficient English language skills, documented by a certification of level B2. The proof is not required provided the university entrance qualification certificate (certification of secondary school) or the Bachelor's degree was acquired in English or the applicant possesses the citizenship of a country in which English is the native language.
Knowledgeof the German language at level A1 is required for the further course of study. A certification is not required for admission, but must be provided by the end of the first semester.
During the course of study, we encourage students to improve their German language skills to level A2 by offering the ‘German Language Elective’ programme.
Check details on Language Requirements
Important Information for Applicants
- Applicants with a bachelor's degree obtained in Germany or with EU citizenship will be admitted without further aptitude test, provided that the general admission requirements are met.
- Applicants with a bachelor’s degree obtained abroad will undergo a selection process, provided that the general entry requirements are met.
The selection process consists of two stages. Stage 1 involves a curriculum analysis. This examines the nature and scope of the modules in which skills are taught that suggest the applicant is likely to successfully complete the Master’s programme. Furthermore, an assessment is made of the thematic and subject-specific relevance of the Bachelor’s thesis to the development of mechatronic systems. Applicants who have achieved a total score of 60 points or more will be invited to a short online selection interview. A successful interview will result in admission.
The interviews will take place from mid-June to the end of July 2026. The faculty will inform invited applicants of the specific interview date by email.
Please note the Statutes for International Orientation and Selection Procedures as well as the procedural elements chosen for this master's degree program.
Is the degree recognized in Germany and abroad?
Yes.
How many places are offered each semester?
Currently, we accept between 20 and 25 students each semester.
I don't have a comprehensive background in electronics. Can I apply?
Yes, the programme is open for mechanical engineers as well as electrical engineers. You must be open for electronic/mechatronic subjects. The programme is not a specialization in a specific area of the mechanics of automobiles.
What is meant by 'International'?
First, the term 'International' in the programme's name indicates that our aim is to prepare our students to collaborate in international teams. Second it refers to fact that the language of instruction is English.
Can I work on a PhD after completing the programme?
After completion of the programme you have the opportunity to do a PhD. Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt offers a wide range of opportunities in applied research for those interested in a doctorate.
Here you will find all further information on this topic:
Doctoral School
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. Armin Arnold
Programme director and Academic advisor " International Automotive Engineering" (Master)
Other programmes you may be interested in
-
Automotive Engineering
Master of Engineering (M. Eng.)
The Master of Automotive Engineering offers in-depth training in the development of future-oriented motor vehicles with a focus on powertrains, bodywork and mechatronic systems.
About the degree program -
Autonomous Vehicle Engineering
Bachelor of Engineering (B. Eng.)
Automated driving is shaping the future of mobility. This English-taught bachelor's degree programme focuses on the latest advances in sensor technologies, intelligent algorithms and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Students gain the expertise needed to develop next-generation mobility solutions and are well prepared for careers with automotive manufacturers, technology companies and leading industry suppliers.
About the degree program -
AI Engineering of Autonomous Systems
Master of Engineering (M. Eng.)
Discover the transformative potential of autonomous systems and how they are reshaping industries from mobility, transportation and logistics to healthcare and agriculture using artificial intelligence techniques. Join us at TH Ingolstadt, one of the leading Universities of Applied Science in Germany, and explore the design, applications, benefits, and future impact of these cutting-edge technologies.
About the degree program -
Automotive Production Engineering
Master of Engineering (M. Eng.)
Automotive Production Engineering focuses on automotive manufacturing, factory planning, automation and production systems. The curriculum connects connected equipment, process optimisation and AI-enabled operations. The result is efficient, flexible and data-driven production environments. The programme combines rigorous analysis with application-oriented subject knowledge.
About the degree program