Who is suitable for the Master’s in Industrial Engineering (M.Eng.) at AKAD University?

The Master’s programme in Industrial Engineering (M.Eng.) is aimed at individuals who want to position themselves at the interface between technology and business. The target group primarily comprises graduates of business or engineering-related degree courses – for example, in business administration, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or civil engineering. The programme stands out due to its interdisciplinary orientation and appeals both to early career professionals as well as specialists and managers who wish to qualify for demanding positions in industries such as the automotive and electrical industries, mechanical engineering, aerospace, chemical and biotechnology. Those wishing to study alongside their career and requiring a high degree of flexibility benefit from the 100% online format of the distance learning programme.

Admission requirements for the distance learning Master’s in Industrial Engineering (M.Eng.)

There are formal requirements for admission:

• Completed university degree with a background in engineering or business sciences (e.g. degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, industrial engineering, business administration or controlling).
• Alternatively, a comparable degree recognised in accordance with the Baden-Württemberg State Higher Education Act.
• Special requirement for the 90 ECTS variant: Completed first degree with at least 210 ECTS from a combination of engineering and business science components. Double and multiple degrees are recognised if at least 30 ECTS in both areas can be evidenced.
• Applicants from abroad: Proof of German language skills, e.g. by DSH-2, C1 according to GER, TestDaF level 4 or an equivalent school leaving certificate.

There are special recognition regulations for multiple degrees as well as for crediting previously completed study achievements (e.g. ECTS credits from other universities).

Personal requirements:

• Interest in interdisciplinary tasks with reference to technology and business.
• Independent, structured and digital working methods for the 100% online distance learning.
• Motivation to develop professionally and personally in order to take on leadership roles or interface positions in the medium term.
• Good PC and internet skills.
• Recommended: English language skills at level C1 according to GER.

Course Content of the Master’s Distance Learning Programme in Industrial Engineering (M.Eng.) at AKAD University

The Master’s programme in Industrial Engineering (M.Eng.) at AKAD University combines engineering, economic, and legal content in an interdisciplinary curriculum. The aim is to train specialists and managers who can operate at the interface between technology and management.

• Engineering Modules: Basics of Systems Theory, Technical Systems with MATLAB, Fuzzy Control, Deep Learning, Machine Learning
• Economic Modules: Process Analysis and IT-supported Process Management, Sustainable Corporate Management, Business Ethics and Sustainability, Integrated Management Systems, Holistic Management Concepts
• Management and Leadership: Systemic Leadership, Interdisciplinary Skills, Project Workshop
• Key Qualifications: Practice-oriented skills for study and career, interdisciplinary modules
• Specialisations (elective modules): Product Development, Production, Digital Engineering, Systems Engineering, Digital Business, Green Management, Supply Networks
• Degree Completion: Master’s thesis and colloquium

The course content is modular and covers all relevant subject areas for modern industrial engineers.

Study Process and Organisation

The programme is completed entirely online – including examinations – via the digital AKAD Campus. Students can flexibly choose from several time models (for example, the Sprint option with 24 months or part-time with up to 48 months standard study period). The duration of study can be individually adjusted. If a first degree in economics or engineering has already been obtained, the study period can be shortened by six months.

• Duration of Study: depending on the model 18 to 48 months, usually 36 months
• ECTS Credits: 120 ECTS (alternatively a 90 ECTS model is possible, depending on prior qualifications)
• 100 % Online Distance Learning: including online examinations and study materials via the AKAD Campus
• Individual Study Planning: examinations and learning progress can be planned flexibly – especially suitable for working professionals and people with other commitments
• Recognition of Prior Learning: previously completed study or examination achievements at other universities can be reviewed and credited upon request – saving time and tuition fees.
• Support through Personal Supervision: subject lecturers and the student services assist in all phases of the programme

Career Perspectives and Fields of Application

With a Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering, graduates acquire qualifications for a wide range of activities in industry, services, and consulting. The interdisciplinary training enables them to take on demanding tasks in management, production, and interface functions.

• Project Manager Smart Factory/Industry 4.0: management, coordination and digitalisation of manufacturing and production processes
• Quality Engineer: planning, control and monitoring of quality assurance processes, development and implementation of measures to improve quality
• Supply Chain Manager: analysis, optimisation and control of value creation and supply chains within the company
• Sustainability Consultant: consultancy on sustainability and digitalisation in companies
• Other Fields of Application: management and leadership positions in mechanical engineering, automotive and electrical industry, aerospace technology, chemistry, biotechnology or digitalisation

The programme is practice-oriented and promotes both technical and economic decision-making skills with a view to responsible tasks in middle and senior management.

Costs and Financing Options

The costs for the Master’s distance learning programme in Industrial Engineering (M.Eng.) at AKAD University depend on the chosen study model and the booked study duration.

• Example Stretch Model: from €319 monthly (for 48 months duration, plus a one-time examination fee of €960)
• Standard Model: from €399 monthly (36 months, plus examination fee)
• Sprint Model: from €529 monthly (24 months, plus examination fee)
• Total Cost of the Programme (example 120 ECTS, status 2024): approx. €8,982 plus examination fee (according to information from Fernstudi.net)
• Free Trial Period: 4 weeks non-binding testing possible
• Financing Options: instalment agreements, discounts for registration by certain deadlines, recognition of prior achievements reduces costs and study duration

AKAD University offers various advisory and support options for financing the programme.