Degree types explained

German industrial engineering programmes award several different degree types. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right programme.

In practice, B.Eng. and B.Sc. are equally valued by German employers – the study focus matters more than the degree designation. The B.Eng. is far more common in distance learning since most providers are universities of applied sciences. The Diplom-Ingenieur is a uniquely German degree that is being phased out but still carries prestige with some employers.

Costs and funding

Industrial engineering is one of the few distance learning fields in Germany with a strong public university presence. This creates an unusually wide cost range – from semester fees of 57 € at state institutions to over 15,000 € at private universities.

Bachelor: cost comparison

Master: cost comparison

International cost comparison

German industrial engineering programmes are significantly more affordable than comparable programmes in English-speaking countries:

Funding options for international students

• Tax deductions: Tuition fees for a second degree (e.g. master’s or MBA) are fully tax-deductible in Germany as income-related expenses (Werbungskosten).
• Employer sponsorship: German industrial companies frequently co-finance engineering degrees for their employees, particularly programmes leading to management positions.
• DAAD scholarships: The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers scholarships for international students, including for part-time programmes in engineering fields.
• Aufstiegs-BAföG: Germany’s professional advancement grant covers up to 18,000 € in tuition fees, with 60% loan forgiveness after graduation. Available to residents with eligible qualifications.

Career prospects and salary

Industrial engineers are among the highest-paid graduates in Germany. Their unique combination of technical and business expertise makes them sought-after “interface managers” in manufacturing, consulting and the energy sector.

A master’s degree pays off financially: the salary premium over a bachelor’s is approximately 5,500 € annually at entry level, growing with experience. Baden-Württemberg pays the highest salaries nationally, while eastern German states typically pay around 20% less.

Working in Germany after graduation

International students who complete a German degree can apply for an 18-month job-seeking visa (§20 Aufenthaltsgesetz). Industrial engineers are in high demand in Germany’s manufacturing sector, and graduates may be eligible for the EU Blue Card. German degrees are recognised worldwide through the ECTS system. For credential evaluation in other countries, the anabin database and WES (World Education Services) provide official recognition.

Admission requirements

Bachelor programmes

• Standard entry: German Abitur, Fachhochschulreife or an equivalent international qualification. Credential evaluation through anabin or uni-assist is required for non-German qualifications.
• Without Abitur: Access is possible with a completed vocational training in a technical or commercial field plus professional experience. A Meister or Techniker certificate grants direct access at most universities.
• Mathematics preparation: Strong mathematics and physics skills are essential. Most universities offer free preparatory courses (Vorkurse) before the programme starts.

Master and MBA programmes

• First degree: A completed bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, engineering or business administration with at least 180 ECTS.
• MBA: The MBA Engineering Management at Wilhelm Büchner University requires a first degree and professional experience.
• Specialised tracks: Some master’s programmes (e.g. “Industrial Engineering for Engineers”) specifically target engineers who want to add business competence.

Language requirements

All industrial engineering programmes in Germany are taught in German. Applicants whose first language is not German typically need a B2 or C1 certificate (TestDaF, DSH or equivalent). Full English-language industrial engineering programmes are not available via distance learning in Germany.

Related fields

Depending on your career goals, you may also want to explore these related fields:

• Computer Science – for programmes focused on software development and IT architecture
• Business Informatics – the IT-focused alternative to industrial engineering, with strengths in data analysis and digitalisation
• Mechanical Engineering – for a pure engineering degree without the business component
• Business Administration – for a pure management degree without the engineering component

Frequently asked questions

• Can I study industrial engineering via distance learning in Germany? Yes. Public and private universities offer bachelor, master, MBA and even Diplom programmes designed for working professionals. Total costs start from 57 €/semester at public universities. Note: all programmes are taught in German.
• What is the difference between B.Eng. and B.Sc.? The B.Eng. (Bachelor of Engineering) is practice-oriented and awarded by universities of applied sciences. The B.Sc. (Bachelor of Science) has a stronger research focus. Both are equally valued by German employers.
• How much does an industrial engineering distance programme cost? At public universities, from 57 €/semester (semester fees only) to 14,070 €. Private providers charge between 10,000 and 15,000 € but offer flexible study models and online exams.
• What is the salary for industrial engineers in Germany? Entry-level salaries start at approximately 50,900 € (bachelor’s) or 56,400 € (master’s) annually. With experience, salaries rise to 70,000 € and above. The aerospace and automotive industries pay the highest salaries.
• Is the Diplom-Ingenieur still available? Yes – the University of West Saxony Zwickau is the only institution offering the Diplom-Wirtschaftsingenieur (FH) via distance learning. The degree is equivalent to a bachelor’s but carries the traditional German engineering title.
• How long does an industrial engineering distance programme take? A bachelor typically takes 6–9 semesters, a master 3–5 semesters, an MBA 3–4 semesters. Most universities allow free extensions beyond the standard study period.
• Are German industrial engineering degrees recognised internationally? Yes. All programmes listed here are state-recognised and accredited. German degrees are recognised worldwide through the ECTS system. For official credential evaluation, use the anabin database or WES.