Who is the Distance Learning Course in Industrial Engineering Suitable For?

The Bachelor distance learning course in Industrial Engineering is aimed at people who are interested in the interface between technology and business and wish to acquire a broad professional competence. It is particularly targeted at those who want to prepare for a challenging role in the industrial, technical or economic sector alongside their job or flexibly. The offer is suitable both for career starters and for experienced professionals who want to expand their qualifications and develop academically. Typical target groups include technical specialists, commercial employees, and anyone who wishes to take on leadership or project responsibilities within companies.

What Formal Requirements Apply for Admission?

To enrol in the distance learning course in Industrial Engineering, a university entrance qualification is required. This can be proven in various ways:

• General university entrance qualification (Abitur)
• Subject-specific university entrance qualification (e.g. Fachabitur, specialised secondary school)
• University of Applied Sciences entrance qualification (e.g. qualification from a technical college)
• A professional qualification that entitles the holder to enter university (e.g. master craftsman’s certificate, corresponding professional further training or completed vocational training with several years of relevant work experience)

Which of the above access options applies depends on the individual prior education. The assessment and recognition are usually carried out directly by the university or the provider.

Personal Requirements for a Successful Degree

In addition to the formal admission criteria, there are personal traits and skills that are beneficial for successfully completing a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering:

• Interest in technical and economic contexts
• Basic knowledge of mathematics as well as analytical thinking
• Independent and structured working, especially in an online and distance learning context
• Organisational skills and time management to balance work, study and, if applicable, private life
• Communication skills and team spirit for project-based modules and possible group work
• Good command of German and basic English skills (specialist literature may partly be in English)
• Motivation to pursue interdisciplinary further education and to adapt flexibly to changing study requirements

An affinity for digital learning methods and the ability to handle online platforms are advantageous, as the course is predominantly conducted online.

What are the core contents of the Industrial Engineering degree programme?

The Bachelor’s degree programme in Industrial Engineering at oncampus combines technical and economic subjects. The aim is to equip graduates with both engineering methods and economic know-how.

• Technical fundamentals: Technical mechanics, materials science, machine elements, basics of electrical engineering, manufacturing technology and technical thermodynamics.
• Mathematical and scientific skills: Mathematics for engineers, introduction to computer science, database management.
• Economics: Basics of business administration (BWL) and economics (VWL), accounting, marketing, logistics and controlling.
• Management and method skills: Project management, quality management, environment-oriented management, social competence.
• Language skills: English in technical and economic contexts.

The subject offer ranges from social science basics through product-technical areas to digital data processing. The modules are delivered by a consortium of 13 universities of applied sciences (Virtual University of Applied Sciences – VFH). Course content and elective modules may vary depending on the cooperating university.

How does the Industrial Engineering distance learning programme work?

The distance learning programme is designed as a career- and family-friendly online study. The standard period of study is 7 semesters (3.5 years) full-time. The duration of study is extended accordingly in part-time.

• Learning format: Flexible e-learning with online courses and online learning platforms.
• Attendance phases: Individual attendance events and exams take place at the respective university.
• Scope: A total of 35 online courses must be completed (one per semester).
• Degree: Upon successful completion, the degree Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.) is awarded. The programme is accredited by ZEvA.
• Support: Various contact persons at the participating universities assist with academic and organisational questions.

The online study enables a time- and location-independent organisation of learning – suitable for working professionals, but also for those who want maximum flexibility in their studies.

Which professional fields and career opportunities open up after graduation?

Industrial engineers work at the interface of technology and economics. Typical areas of employment are:

• Industrial companies – for example in production, technical management, manufacturing, process optimisation
• Logistics and supply chain management
• Technical sales and marketing
• Controlling and quality management
• Project management in technical development or economic areas
• Environment-oriented management and sustainability

The bachelor’s degree also forms the foundation for advanced master’s degree programmes in industrial engineering or related disciplines.

What costs are to be expected during the degree and what financing options are available?

The cost structure of the degree programme is transparent:

• Course fees: 95 euros per course and semester (35 online courses in total). Total cost: 3,325 euros.
• Discounted fees: BAföG recipients pay 70 euros per course (proof required).
• Additional costs: In addition to the course fees, the usual semester fees of the providing universities apply. There are also costs for internet usage and possible travel expenses for attendance phases.

For financing, it is possible to apply for BAföG or an education loan. Contact persons at the respective universities are available for individual advice on financing and the study process.