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Germany’s engineering and IT sector is one of the most affordable routes to an accredited technical degree in Europe. Public universities such as the University of Hagen, the Institute for Collaborative Studies (Verbundstudium NRW), and TU Dresden offer full Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes from under 100 € per month – a fraction of comparable degrees in the US, UK, or Australia. Private universities complement this with flexible online exams and year-round enrolment at higher tuition rates. This page compares all 13 specialisations, with costs, admission requirements, and career prospects.
- 30 Top degree programs in the field of Engineering & Computer Science at a glance
- 13 Engineering and IT Specialisations Available in Germany
- Tuition Fees for Engineering and IT Degrees in Germany
- Public vs. Private Universities for Engineering and IT in Germany
- Salaries and Career Prospects for Engineers in Germany
- Admission Requirements for International Students
- Accreditation and International Degree Recognition
- Frequently Asked Questions
30 Top degree programs in the field of Engineering & Computer Science at a glance
We have a total of 292 courses in the field of Technology & Informatics. The first 30 top courses are displayed. Use the filter function or our search to discover more courses in the field.
Mechanical Engineering
Wilhelm Büchner University · B.Eng. · 7 Semester
Mechanical engineering
The Dresden University of Technology · Dipl.-Ing. · 20 Semester
Mechanical Engineering
AKAD University · B.Eng. · 6 Semester
Mechanical engineering
Hamburg Distance University · B.Eng. · 7 Semester
Mechanical engineering
Institute for Collaborative Studies · M.Eng. · 6 Semester
Mechanical engineering
The Dresden University of Technology · B.Sc. · 12 Semester
Mechanical engineering
University of Technology and Economics Berlin · B.Sc. · 9 Semester
Mechanical engineering
Institute for Collaborative Studies · B.Eng. · 9 Semester
Applied Artificial Intelligence
IU International University · M.Sc. · 2 Semester
Energy Process Engineering
Wilhelm Büchner University · B.Eng. · 7 Semester
Electrical and information technology
Wilhelm Büchner University · B.Eng. · 7 Semester
VAWi - Virtual Further Education Course Business Informatics
University of Duisburg-Essen · M.Sc. · 3 Semester
Engineering Management
IU International University · B.Eng. · 6 Semester
Software Engineering for Embedded Systems
Rhineland-Palatinate Technical University Kaiserslautern-Landau · M.Eng. · 4 Semester
Technical computer science
Wilhelm Büchner University · B.Eng. · 7 Semester
Business and IT
IU International University · B.Sc. · 6 Semester
Civil Engineering
The Dresden University of Technology · Dipl.-Ing. · 4 Semester
Electrical engineering
Institute for Collaborative Studies · B.Eng. · 9 Semester
Fire protection planning
Rhineland-Palatinate Technical University Kaiserslautern-Landau · M.Eng. · 5 Semester
Game Development
Wilhelm Büchner University · B.Sc. · 6 Semester
Computer science
Wilhelm Büchner University · B.Sc. · 6 Semester
Mechanical engineering
Anhalt University of Applied Sciences · B.Eng. · 8 Semester
Business Engineering Digital Engineering and Management
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences · B.Eng. · 6 Semester
Logistics Management
IU International University · B.A. · 6 Semester
13 Engineering and IT Specialisations Available in Germany
German universities organise engineering and IT programmes into 13 distinct specialisation areas. Each leads to different career paths and requires different technical backgrounds. The following table provides a quick overview.
| Specialisation | Typical Degrees | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | B.Sc., M.Sc. | Software development, algorithms, IT systems – the broadest technical foundation |
| Data Science & AI | B.Sc., M.Sc. | Data analysis, machine learning, artificial intelligence – the growth field of the decade |
| Business Engineering | B.Eng., M.Eng., M.Sc. | Engineering meets business – for interface roles between production and management |
| Mechanical Engineering | B.Eng., M.Eng., Dipl.-Ing. | Design, manufacturing, materials – the core of Germany’s engineering tradition |
| Business Informatics | B.Sc., M.Sc. | Enterprise IT systems, ERP, digital transformation – bridging IT and business |
| IT Management | B.A., M.Sc., MBA | IT strategy, project management, digitalisation – leadership in tech |
| Electrical Engineering | B.Eng., M.Eng., Dipl.-Ing. | Power systems, telecommunications, automation – foundation for Industry 4.0 |
| Civil Engineering | B.Eng., M.Sc. | Structural engineering, construction management – planning and building infrastructure |
| Logistics | B.A., M.A., M.B.S. | Supply chain, transport, materials management – managing global supply chains |
| Mechatronics | B.Eng., M.Eng. | Mechanical + electrical + software engineering – robotics, automation, automotive |
| IT Security | B.Sc., M.Sc., MBA | Cybersecurity, IT forensics, data protection – securing digital infrastructure |
| Media Informatics | B.Sc., M.Sc. | Web development, UX, digital media – computer science with a design focus |
| Architecture | B.A., M.A. | Architectural design, building construction, interior design |
Computer Science offers the broadest foundation: if you want to keep your options open, start here. Business Engineering combines technical expertise with business skills and qualifies for interface positions – one of the most versatile profiles on the German job market. For those focused on data analysis, Data Science & AI is the fastest-growing specialisation.
Tuition Fees for Engineering and IT Degrees in Germany
Compared to the US (average $40,000/year for a STEM degree), UK (£9,250/year), or Australia (AU$30,000+/year for engineering), German distance learning programmes are remarkably affordable. Even private German universities rarely exceed 15,000 € for an entire Bachelor’s degree in engineering or IT.
Bachelor’s: Cost Comparison
| Course | University | Fees | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical engineering, Bachelor of Science Distance learning program | The Dresden University of Technology | from 1200 € total | |
| Computer Science, Bachelor of Science Distance learning program | University of Hagen | from 1954 € total | |
| Mechatronics, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | Institute for Collaborative Studies | from 2030 € total | |
| Business informatics, Bachelor of Science Distance learning program | University of Hagen | from 2229 € total | |
| Business informatics, Bachelor of Science Distance learning program | oncampus GmbH | from 2755 € total | |
| Business Administration, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | oncampus GmbH | from 3325 € total | |
| Mechatronics, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | University of Kaiserslautern | from 3720 € total | |
| Business Administration Engineering, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | Centre for Distance Learning in the University Consortium | from 3720 € total |
Master’s: Cost Comparison
| Course | University | Fees | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Practical computer science, Master of Science Distance learning program | University of Hagen | from 702 € total | |
| Mechanical engineering, Master of Engineering Distance learning program | Institute for Collaborative Studies | from 1038 € total | |
| Data Science, Master of Science Distance learning program | University of Hagen | from 1046 € total | |
| Electrical engineering, Master of Engineering Distance learning program | Institute for Collaborative Studies | from 1105 € total | |
| Business informatics, Master of Science Distance learning program | University of Hagen | from 1156 € total | |
| Computer Science, Master of Science Distance learning program | University of Hagen | from 1211 € total | |
| Civil Engineering - Specialization Structural Engineering, Master of Science Distance learning program | Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz University Hannover | from 1636 € total | |
| Cyber Security Management, Master of Business Administration Distance learning program | Wilhelm Büchner University | from 5388 € total from 449 € monthly |
International Cost Comparison
| Country | Bachelor’s (Total) | Master’s (Total) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany (public) | 1,200–3,700 € | 700–2,500 € | Semester fees only, no tuition |
| Germany (private) | 10,000–15,000 € | 5,400–13,000 € | Flexible online exams, year-round start |
| United States | $80,000–160,000 | $30,000–80,000 | In-state tuition lower, private much higher |
| United Kingdom | £27,750–37,000 | £10,000–30,000 | Higher fees for international students |
| Australia | AU$60,000–120,000 | AU$30,000–60,000 | International student pricing |
Funding and Financial Aid
International students enrolled at a German university may be eligible for the following funding options:
- Tax deduction (German taxpayers): Tuition fees, study materials, and travel costs for exams can be deducted from taxable income. A second degree (e.g. Master’s after Bachelor’s) qualifies as a full business expense.
- Employer sponsorship: German engineering employers frequently co-fund degrees that align with the employee’s role. This is particularly common for Mechanical Engineering, IT, and Business Engineering programmes.
- KfW Student Loan: Available to students enrolled at accredited German institutions, providing up to 650 € per month regardless of income.
- Aufstiegs-BAföG: Since January 2025, up to 18,000 € in tuition fees are covered. After passing the final exam, 60% of the loan is forgiven. Eligibility depends on residency status.
Public vs. Private Universities for Engineering and IT in Germany
Germany’s engineering and IT sector stands out for its strong public university presence. Unlike many other fields where private providers dominate, public institutions offer a wide range of technical programmes at minimal cost.
The University of Hagen (FernUniversität) is Germany’s only public distance university, offering Computer Science, Business Informatics, and Data Science at total costs below 2,000 €. Its Master’s in Practical Computer Science costs just 702 € – one of the most affordable Master’s degrees in Europe. The Institute for Collaborative Studies (Verbundstudium NRW) offers Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Mechatronics from around 2,000 €. TU Dresden provides a Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s for just 1,200 €.
Private universities offer more flexibility and personal support at higher cost. Key providers include:
- Wilhelm Büchner University: Germany’s largest private technical distance university with the broadest engineering and IT portfolio. Online exams and year-round enrolment.
- IU International University: The largest private distance learning university in Germany, offering Computer Science, IT Management, and Data Science. Maximum flexibility with 24/7 online exams.
- AKAD University: Specialises in technology-oriented programmes including Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, and Business Engineering.
- University of Wismar: A public university offering Business Informatics and IT programmes at moderate fees, combining distance learning with on-campus elements.
| Public | Private | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (Bachelor’s total) | 1,200–3,700 € | 10,000–15,000 € |
| Tuition (Master’s total) | 700–2,500 € | 5,400–13,000 € |
| Support | Self-directed learning, online forums | Personal advisors, tutors |
| Exams | On-site at fixed dates | Often online, flexibly scheduled |
| Start dates | Semester-based (Oct./April) | Any time |
| Recognition | State-run, accredited | State-recognised, accredited |
Salaries and Career Prospects for Engineers in Germany
Germany’s engineering and IT sector faces a persistent skills shortage. According to Bitkom, over 149,000 IT positions were unfilled in Germany in 2024. For international graduates, this translates into strong employment prospects. The following salary data is based on the StepStone Salary Report 2024, get-in-engineering.de, and gehalt.de.
| Field | Starting Salary/Year | Median | With 5+ Years Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Development | ~45,000 € | ~55,000 € | up to 75,000 € |
| Data Science / AI | ~50,000 € | ~60,000 € | up to 85,000 € |
| IT Security | ~48,000 € | ~58,000 € | up to 80,000 € |
| Mechanical Engineering | ~48,000 € | ~58,000 € | up to 72,000 € |
| Electrical Engineering | ~49,000 € | ~59,000 € | up to 75,000 € |
| Business Engineering | ~50,000 € | ~62,000 € | up to 80,000 € |
| Civil Engineering | ~42,000 € | ~52,000 € | up to 65,000 € |
Business engineers earn the highest median salaries because they bridge technical and managerial roles. Data scientists and IT security specialists benefit from the skills shortage: demand consistently exceeds supply across all German industries. A Master’s degree accelerates career progression – according to StepStone, engineers with a Master’s earn 10,000 to 15,000 € more per year than those with a Bachelor’s.
Admission Requirements for International Students
Bachelor’s Programmes
Admission to a Bachelor’s programme requires a secondary school leaving certificate equivalent to the German Abitur or Fachhochschulreife. For international applicants, the anabin database maintained by the KMK (Standing Conference of Education Ministers) lists which foreign qualifications are recognised in Germany.
Many private universities also admit students without a traditional university entrance qualification – through professional experience or vocational qualifications. A completed vocational training in a technical field (e.g. IT specialist, mechatronics technician, electrician) with at least two to three years of work experience often qualifies for admission.
Master’s Programmes
Master’s programmes require a first degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) with at least 180 ECTS in a related field. Most engineering and IT Master’s programmes require a Bachelor’s in the same or a closely related discipline. Cross-disciplinary programmes such as IT Management may accept graduates from non-technical backgrounds.
Language Requirements
Most engineering and IT programmes in this category are taught in German, requiring B2 level proficiency (CEFR). Accepted certificates include TestDaF (TDN 4), DSH-2, or telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule. Some private universities, notably IU International University, offer selected programmes entirely in English.
Visa and Residence Permit
Non-EU citizens need a student visa to enrol at a German university. For fully online distance learning programmes, a German student visa is generally not required – you can study from your home country. If you plan to attend on-site exams in Germany, a Schengen tourist visa is usually sufficient. After graduation, you may apply for an 18-month job-seeking visa (§ 20 AufenthG) if you decide to relocate to Germany.
Accreditation and International Degree Recognition
All programmes listed on this page are accredited by one of Germany’s recognised accreditation agencies and approved by the relevant state ministry. A degree from an accredited German university is recognised throughout the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) and beyond.
All programmes use the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). A Bachelor’s typically requires 180 ECTS (3 years) or 210 ECTS (3.5 years), a Master’s 60–120 ECTS. For use outside Europe, organisations such as World Education Services (WES) or NACES member organisations can evaluate your German degree.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does an engineering or IT distance degree cost in Germany? At public universities, total costs for a Bachelor’s range from 1,200 to 3,700 €. Private universities charge between 10,000 and 15,000 €. Monthly rates at public institutions start at under 100 €.
- Can I study engineering in English at a German university? Most programmes are taught in German. IU International University offers selected IT programmes in English. For other universities, German language proficiency at B2 level is typically required.
- What is the difference between Computer Science and Business Informatics? Computer Science focuses on software development, algorithms, and IT systems. Business Informatics combines this with business administration and qualifies for roles at the interface of IT and business processes.
- Is a German engineering degree recognised internationally? Yes. All programmes listed here are accredited under the European Higher Education Area framework and use ECTS credits. For non-European countries, credential evaluation services such as WES can verify your degree. German engineering degrees carry particular weight internationally due to Germany’s reputation in manufacturing and technology.
- Do I need strong maths skills for an engineering degree? Mathematics plays a central role in all engineering and IT programmes – especially in Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, and Electrical Engineering. Many universities offer bridging courses to refresh school-level knowledge. High-school level maths is typically sufficient to begin.
- How long does an engineering distance degree take? A Bachelor’s takes 6–9 semesters (3–4.5 years), a Master’s 3–5 semesters (1.5–2.5 years). Most universities offer free extensions beyond the standard study period.
- Do I need to attend on-campus sessions? This varies by university. Public universities typically require on-site exams at fixed dates. Private universities like Wilhelm Büchner University and IU offer online-proctored exams that can be taken from anywhere in the world.
About the Author Christian Wolf
Hi, I'm Christian, the founder of fernstudi.net & your personal, independent study advisor 👋 Do you have questions about a course of study or are unsure which course is right for you? I'm happy to help - in detail, competently, honestly, and individually.
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