The world of electrical and information technology is diverse and offers numerous career opportunities. For those interested in studying in this field while working, Wilhelm Büchner University and AKAD University are attractive options. A recently published video on YouTube provides a detailed comparison of the bachelor's programmes in electrical and information technology offered by these two renowned German universities.

Overview of the Programmes

First, an overview of both programmes in tabular form:

Wilhelm Büchner University: Focus on Technology

Wilhelm Büchner University, a private university of applied sciences based in Darmstadt, is an interdisciplinary institution focusing on technology. Core areas include engineering, computer science, industrial engineering, technology management, energy, environmental and process engineering, as well as the new field of design.

With around 5000 students (as of winter semester 2022/23), it offers a wide range of courses, including in the field of electrical and information technology.

The programme stands out for its variety of specialisations, including general electrical engineering and automation technology. A key component of the programme is the practical phase, which can be credited to students with relevant work experience.

AKAD University: Diverse Range of Studies

In contrast to WBH, AKAD University in Stuttgart offers a diverse range of studies, including areas such as health and social sciences.

With approximately 6200 students (as of winter semester 2022/23), the university of applied sciences stands out for its flexibility. The electrical and information technology programme can be completed entirely online here, including the option to take exams online. This makes AKAD University particularly attractive for working professionals and individuals with limited mobility.

Structure and Content of Studies

Both universities provide a solid foundation in Mathematics and Technical Basics. Wilhelm Büchner University places a stronger emphasis on Mathematics and offers a total of 3 Mathematics modules. On the other hand, AKAD University offers a slightly more flexible structure with the option of part-time studies. Both universities offer interesting opportunities for specialization.

These are the study contents in distance learning at WBH:

• 1st Semester: Mathematics I, Natural Science Fundamentals, Basics of Computer Science with Lab, Fundamentals of Business Administration and Legal Foundations, Introductory Project for Engineers
• 2nd Semester: Mathematics II, Natural Science Engineering Fundamentals, Introduction to Electrotechnics and Electronics, Communication and Management
• 3rd Semester: Mathematics III with Lab, Digital and Microcomputer Technology, System Theory and Modeling with Lab, Electrotechnics, Operating Systems
• 4th Semester: Measurement Technology, Electronic Circuit Technology, Digital Signal and Information Processing, Control Engineering with Lab
• 5th Semester: Control Engineering with Lab, Design and Communication of Embedded Systems, Basics of Telecommunication and Networking, Electrical Machines
• 6th Semester: Power Electronics, Specialization Track (Module I), Specialization Track (Module II), Specialization Track (Module III)
• 7th Semester: Engineering Science Project, Specialization Track (Module IV), Specialization Track (Module V), Bachelor's Thesis and Colloquium

At the beginning or during the course of your studies, you can also choose one of these specialization tracks: General Electrotechnics, Automation Technology, Electromobility, Information and Telecommunication Technology, Energy Information Networks, Signaling and Safety Technology.

These are the contents in distance learning at AKAD University:

• 1st Semester: Key Skills for Studies and Careers, Fundamentals of Mathematics I, Basics of Electrotechnics, Basics of Electronics, Fundamentals of Physics for Engineers, English for Technology
• 2nd Semester: Programming in C/C++, Electrotechnics Advanced, Fundamentals of Mathematics II, Electronics Advanced, Software Development for Engineers, Electronics Lab
• 3rd Semester: Basics of Business Management, Integral Transformations, Materials and Components of Electrical Engineering, Control Engineering, Electrical Measurement Technology with Lab, Control Engineering (Lab)
• 4th Semester: Basics of Digital Technology, Basics of Communication Technology, Basics of Operating Systems and Networks, Electrical Design, Hardware Design, Mechatronic Transducers
• 5th Semester: Project and Quality Management, Communication Systems and Communication Networks, Real-Time Systems, Microcomputer Systems with Lab, Electrical Power Supply, Communication Technology Lab
• 6th Semester: Project, Specialization 1
• 7th Semester: Project Workshop, Bachelor's Thesis, Specialization 2

As a specialization, students can choose from these modules: Energy Technology, Robotics, Microsystems Technology, Technical Sales, Project Management, Medical Engineering, IT Security, Automation Technology

Internships & On-Site Presence

At Wilhelm Büchner University, there is a practical internship phase lasting 18 weeks. This phase allows students to apply the theoretical knowledge acquired during their studies directly in practice.

Students who are already employed in a relevant field can have this phase credited due to their work experience.

In addition, regular on-site presence is required, especially for exams, which are usually taken at the university in Darmstadt. These on-site periods provide students with valuable opportunities for personal exchange and networking.

In contrast, the study program at AKAD University is completely digital. This means that both teaching and exams are conducted online, providing students with high flexibility and the opportunity to complete their studies entirely from home. While AKAD University also offers practice-oriented content, there is no mandatory practical internship phase as at Wilhelm Büchner University.

Costs and Flexibility

Both universities offer their programs at comparable prices, with occasional discounts and special offers that can reduce costs.

At Wilhelm Büchner University, there are various payment models, including the Standard, Comfort, and Stretch models. The Standard model has the highest monthly instalment but offers the lowest total costs, while the Stretch model provides the lowest monthly burden with higher total costs. For the winter semester 2022/23, the total costs of the program ranged between approximately 14,500 and 17,000 euros, depending on the chosen model.

AKAD University also offers various models for its program, labelled as Sprint, Marathon, and Stretch variations, differing in study duration and monthly instalments. The total costs for study at AKAD University vary depending on the model and are in a similar price range to Wilhelm Büchner University, approximately between 15,000 and 17,500 euros.

In summary, the costs for the study programs in Electrical and Information Technology at both universities are comparable, and students can choose from various payment models based on personal preferences and financial capabilities. Both universities offer opportunities to reduce costs through strategic enrolment and use of discounts.

Conclusion

• Study Content and Specialisations: Wilhelm Büchner University focuses more on technical courses and offers more opportunities for specialisation. AKAD University has a broader range of courses, including non-technical areas.
• Flexibility and Study Format: Wilhelm Büchner University requires on-site presence and provides opportunities for personal exchange and networking. AKAD University enables a fully digital study, particularly flexible for working professionals and those with geographical constraints.
• Practical Experiences: Wilhelm Büchner University integrates a practical internship phase, which can be credited with relevant work experience. AKAD University offers practice-oriented content but without a mandatory practical internship phase.
• Cost Structure: Both universities have similar tuition fees with various payment models. There are opportunities for discounts and special offers that can reduce costs. The program at WBH, however, is always full-time.
• Target Audience and Suitability: Wilhelm Büchner University is well-suited for students valuing technical depth and personal interaction. AKAD University is ideal for students seeking flexibility and the opportunity for fully digital learning.
• Overall Evaluation: Both institutions offer high-quality programs catering to different needs and preferences. The decision should be based on individual priorities regarding flexibility, study content, and learning environment.