Embedded Systems Engineering (Master of Science)
Embedded systems are among the key technologies. Whether in medical technology, the automotive industry, in aerospace or in the telecommunications, media and entertainment technology - embedded systems play a central role in the latest technological developments. The systems that "feel" with sensors, "think" through intelligent programming, and "act" on signals and actuators perform a wide variety of tasks.
Connection between engineering and computer science
In the master's program, we provide you with versatile know-how in computer science and engineering. For your future as a research scientist or project leader in a company, you are well equipped to understand and bring together the "language" of both worlds of technology. An extensive selection area allows you to set an individual focus on the following areas:
- Circuits and systems
- Design and Simulation
- Sensors and actuators
- Reliable Embedded Systems
- Distributed Systems
- Robotics and machine vision
Prerequisites
- Bachelor's degree in mechatronics, information technology, electronics or electrical engineering, computer science or similar. Previous knowledge in mathematics, computer science, physics and electrical engineering
- English language proficiency level C1 (e.g. IELTS 7.0, TOEFL 95)
Facts and Figures
Scope: | 120 ECTS credit points |
Standard program duration: | 4 semesters = 2 years |
Language of instruction: | English |
Intakes: |
winter semester (October) or summer semester (April) |
Fees and Cost
German and EU nationals
Altogether 155 € per semester to be paid to the university. |
Non-EU nationals
Altogether 1655 € per semester to be paid to the university. |
The living cost in Freiburg amounts to approximately 700 - 800 € per month. |
Application
Application: |
The next intake is in October 2019. Applications will be possible from 1 April 2019. Step one: Please enter your data in our online application portal
* English proficiency certificates and score reporting:
|
Admissions:
|
The admissions committee will verify whether you fulfill the special prerequisites outlined in the admissions regulations. For further information please contact the program coordinator (see contact persons). |
Application deadlines: |
May 15 (non-EU citizens), July 15 (EU citizens) for the winter semester |
|
|
Faculty affiliation: | Faculty of Engineering |
Curriculum
The curriculum includes courses in the following areas:
- Design of microelectronic and micromechanic devices
- Software-based components
- System integration
- System optimization regarding speed, cost and energy efficiency
- Safety and reliability
Six different concentration areas are offered:
- Circuits and systems
- Design and simulation
- Sensors and actuators
- Reliable embedded systems
- Distributed systems
- Robotics and computer visions
Learning takes the form of lectures, exercises, lab courses, seminars and project work. The state-of-the art laboratories on the campus of the Faculty of Engineering enable hands-on training in which research and teaching are closely linked.The large elective area in the master's program offers a high level of flexibility and enables students to specialize in a wide range of topics.
Possible occupational fields
Graduates of the Master's program in Embedded Systems Engineering can either apply for a PhD position or work as an engineer in a company. Potential employers are companies from the following fields:
- Automotive industry
- Bio- and medical engineering (e.g. prosthetics or implants)
- Automation
- Energy
- Communication
- Security
- Multimedia
Syllabus and Examination Regulations
Please note: Only the latest version is listed here. Older versions can be found in Module Handbooks and Exam Regulations under Studies and Teaching.
- Online syllabus in HISinOne (loading might take some time)
- Exam and admission regulations (in German)
- Exam regulations (unofficial version in English - not binding)
Contact Persons
Do you have any questions concerning the application and admission procedure? Please contact the program coordinator:
![]() |
Georges-Köhler-Allee 101 |
Ms. Ursula Epe |
For questions pertaining to the curriculum, please contact the academic advisors:
![]() |
Georges-Köhler-Allee 101 02 13a |
Ms. Martina Nopper |
Testimonial
"I have always been fascinated by smart systems. Freiburg University's ESE program, offered by it's Computer Science and Microsystems Engineering departments was the perfect fit for me. It's broad range of modules helped me tailor my specialisation courses to fit my areas of interest. The mentorship and guidance by experts and highly skilled staff greatly enriched my study experience. This program boasts strong ties to industry and research institutes and has highly sought after graduates."
Titus Busulwa
Particularities about this study program
Numerous lab courses
The students can choose from a big variety of lab courses within the concentration areas, thus acquiring important practical skills for their future career.
A Mentor for each Student
Each professor is in charge of a number of students whom s/he mentors. These mentors help you to organize your studies and are ready to answer your questions about studying abroad, finding a job, and more.
Smart, Micro, Green – Engineering in Freiburg
Green - Freiburg is renowned worldwide as a Green City. Since 2015, the Faculty of Engineering has had its own Department of Sustainable Systems Engineering. The researchers of this department build systems that hardly need any energy, have a long life cycle, and adapt themselves easily to difficult environmental conditions.
Smart - stands for autonomously acting robots, computers that learn to interpret pictures, or algorithms that become more and more intelligent and fast. In summary: At the Faculty of Engineering, smart stands for computer science.
Micro - Our researchers design tiny technical systems that handle complex tasks needed in medicine or in production plants. Nowadays each of us uses such systems on a daily basis - often without even noticing. Developing microsystems is an exciting and challenging job - not only for students but also for companies. Our study programs are the best preparation for a career in this field.
Studying engineering in Freiburg means that you will benefit from these three research areas, no matter which study field you choose. Smart, micro and green ideas will increasingly be needed. We offer to teach you the skills needed for developing these kinds of systems.
Further Information
- How to prepare your stay in Freiburg - Information for admitted students
- Website of the Department of Microsystems Engineering
- Website of the Department of Computer Science
- Orientation manual for new students
- PDF flyer of the study program