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Contents
- Which German university is the best for electrical engineering?
- Bachelor's Programs: Cost Comparison
- Master's Programs: Admission Requirements and Costs
- Bachelor in Electrical Engineering at the Wilhelm Büchner University: Requirements, Contents, Process
- Master's in Electrical Engineering & Management via Distance Learning at the University of Applied Sciences Schmalkalden: Requirements, Content, Process
- Electrical Engineering vs. Mechatronics: Which is Suitable for Whom?
- Career Opportunities: What Do Graduates of Electrical Engineering Programmes Work On and Earn?
Studied electrical engineers have excellent job opportunities in the industry.
Here, I present all part-time distance learning courses in electrical and communication engineering, both bachelor's and master's programs. Most courses are offered by state-owned universities of applied sciences and are correspondingly inexpensive.
Find everything here about tuition fees, admission requirements, and study contents for a distance learning program in electrical engineering.
Overview of all Courses
We have a total of 24 courses in the field of Electrical Engineering.
Energy Process Engineering
- Wilhelm Büchner University
- 7 Semester
- German
Explore the sustainable energy future with the Bachelor's degree programme in Energy Process Engineering at Wilhelm Büchner University. Over 7 semesters, you will acquire in-depth knowledge in the fields of …
Electrical and information technology
- Wilhelm Büchner University
- 7 Semester
- German
Discover the future of technology with the Bachelor's degree programme in Electrical and Information Technology at Wilhelm Büchner University. This programme offers you a comprehensive education that combines the fundamentals …
Electrical engineering
- Institute for Collaborative Studies
- 9 Semester
- Bielefeld
- German
- Fundamentals of Electrical Engineering 1, Mathematics 1, Physics 1, Materials of Electrical Engineering, Fundamentals of Electrical Engineering 2, Mat…
Electrical engineering
- Centre for Distance Learning in the University Consortium
- 6 Semester
- German
- Communication in the corporate environment, system design and objects, signals, systems and simulation, automation, microelectronics, energy technolog…
Electrical Engineering
- AKAD University
- 6 Semester
- German
The distance learning program in Electrical Engineering at AKAD University provides solid foundational knowledge and valuable practical expertise in all areas of electrical and information technology. Over 6 consecutive performance …
Electrical engineering
- Anhalt University of Applied Sciences
- 9 Semester
- German
- Foundations of electrical engineering and electronics, measurement, control and regulation technology, power electronics and drive technology, technol…
Electrical engineering
- Centre for Distance Learning in the University Consortium
- 8 Semester
- German
- Mathematical foundations, Basics of electrical engineering, Microprocessor technology, Basics of software development, Electronic measurement technolo…
Electrical Engineering and Management
- University of Applied Sciences Schmalkalden
- 5 Semester
- Schmalkalden und Gera, Thüringen
- German
With this master's programme at the state University of Applied Sciences Schmalkalden, you qualify yourself interdisciplinary for leadership positions in the industry. In just 5 semesters of regular study time, …
Electrical engineering/communication technology
- University of Technology and Economics Dresden
- 10 Semester
- German
- Mathematics, Technical Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Technical Physics, Mathematics, Compute…
Industrial engineering
- University of Mittweida
- 3 Semester
- German
- Cost accounting / Controlling, Business management, Energy economics / Energy management, Electrical energy systems, Basics of process coupling, Contr…
Electrical engineering
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German
With this distance learning course, you will learn to understand electricity and electronics and develop concepts for product development to be able to work in interdisciplinary teams. Thanks to the …
Electrical and Information Technology
- Centre for Distance Learning in the University Consortium
- 9 Semester
- Aschaffenburg, Darmstadt
- German
- Basics of Electrical Engineering, Physics, Engineering Mathematics, Programming with C/C++, Programming of Microprocessors, Automation and Control Eng…
Electrical engineering
- Centre for Distance Learning in the University Consortium
- 4 Semester
- Aschaffenburg, Darmstadt
- German
- Communication in the business environment, system design and objects, signals, systems and simulation, automation, energy technology, medical technolo…
Electrical and Information Technology
- Wilhelm Büchner University
- 3 Semester
- German
The distance learning course "Electrical and Information Technology" at Wilhelm Büchner University provides comprehensive knowledge in areas such as electronics, control engineering, digital technology, telecommunications, and more. Graduates earn a …
Electrical and Information Technology
- Anhalt University of Applied Sciences
- 3 Semester
- Köthen
- English
- Communication technology, automation technology, development of embedded microcontroller systems (Embedded Systems), soft skills.
Electrical and Information Technology
- University of Duisburg-Essen
- 6 Semester
- German
- Analog radio systems, equipment for high voltage technology, Coding Theory, Computational Electromagnetics, introductory seminar, Electromagnetic Comp…
Reliability engineering
- Centre for Distance Learning in the University Consortium
- 6 Semester
- German
- Communication: Situation-related communication, presentation and moderation, staff management, System development: Software Engineering, Embedded Syst…
Electrical engineering
- Institute for Collaborative Studies
- 5 Semester
- German
- Computer Aided Engineering, Personnel Management, Quality Management, Higher Mathematics, Communication Systems, Sensors, Embedded Systems, Mechatroni…
Electrical engineering
- University of Mittweida
- 4 Semester
- German
- Mathematics 3, Scientific Work, Energy Technologies - Electrical Engineering, Energy Technologies - Energy Engineering, Industrial Control Systems, Ne…
Electrical and Information Technology
- AKAD University
- 7 Semester
- German
This Bachelor's degree programme in Electrical and Information Engineering at AKAD University provides sound knowledge in the fields of electrical engineering, digital technology, computer science, and communication technology. Graduates are …
Digital Engineering
- Centre for Distance Learning in the University Consortium
- 4 Semester
- Kaiserslautern
- German
- Advanced Digital Engineering, Theoretical Computer Science, Quality Management, AI Methods, Sensing Actuation, Advanced Data Science, Human-Technology…
Electrical engineering
- AKAD University
- 6 Semester
- German
- Key qualifications for studies and profession, Bridge course mathematics and physics for engineers, Methods of product development, Electrostatics, Au…
Electrical engineering
- University of Darmstadt
- 6 Semester
- Darmstadt
- German
- Communication, signals, systems, simulation and energy, Object-oriented programming and signals, Advanced module 1, Advanced module 2, Software engine…
Electrical engineering
- University of Darmstadt
- 4 Semester
- Darmstadt
- German
- Communication, Specialization Module 1, Specialization Module 2, Software Engineering, Embedded Systems, Specialization Module 3, Specialization Modul…
Which German university is the best for electrical engineering?
All the courses I present here are offered by universities of applied sciences in Germany, mostly public ones. Of course, I cannot answer in general which university is the best here. Rather, you should compare the distance learning programs of the individual universities in detail. Decision criteria could be, for example: study contents, costs, location of the university, extent of study materials.
Here's an overview of the most important universities of applied sciences for distance learning in electrical engineering:
Verbundstudium: The Verbundstudium combines the part-time study offer of state universities of applied sciences in North Rhine-Westphalia. If you complete one of the courses in the network, such as the Bachelor distance learning program in electrical engineering, you enroll at one of the participating universities of applied sciences in North Rhine-Westphalia. In addition to the distance learning programs in electrical engineering, the universities offer numerous other programs, such as mechanical engineering, mechatronics, and business administration.
Schmalkalden University: The HS Schmalkalden in Thuringia is a university of applied sciences that offers a wide range of distance learning programs in addition to its on-campus courses. For example, the Master's distance learning program in Electrical Engineering & Management. More about this Master's program later in this post.
Zentrum für Fernstudien im Hochschulverbund: The ZFH combines, similar to the Verbundstudium, a range of part-time study programs from universities in Rhineland-Palatinate, Hesse, and Saarland. As a student, you enroll at a university in this federal state. The range of courses is extensive, including not only electrical engineering and automation technology but also distance learning programs in business economics and computer science, for example.
University of Technology and Economics Dresden: HTW Dresden is a university of applied sciences that mainly offers on-campus study programs. Through HTW, you can also complete a distance learning program in electrical engineering/communication technology with the goal of Diplom-Ingenieur/-in (FH).
Anhalt University: Hochschule Anhalt is a public university of applied sciences based in Saxony-Anhalt. The university offers a variety of distance learning programs, such as a Bachelor as well as a Master in Mechanical Engineering, but also a Bachelor and a Master in Electrical Engineering.
Wilhelm Büchner University: WBH is a private, state-recognized university of applied sciences based in Darmstadt/Hesse, focusing on engineering distance learning programs. The university enrolls around 6000 students who study mechanical engineering, mechatronics, or electrical engineering there, for example.
AKAD University: AKAD University is a private university of applied sciences based in Stuttgart. The university's focus is on distance learning programs in computer science & technology, but also in business economics. Bachelor's and Master's distance learning programs are offered, for example, in electrical engineering, mechatronics, and mechanical engineering.
IU Internationale University: IU, based in Erfurt/Thuringia, was founded in 1998. The university has since developed into the largest university in Germany – in the winter semester 2024/2025, over 130,000 students were enrolled there. The university advertises with a particularly flexible distance learning program without any attendance requirements. In the field of technology, in addition to a Bachelor in Industrial Engineering, they currently offer the Bachelor in Electrical Engineering and Robotics.
Bachelor's Programs: Cost Comparison
The costs for the Bachelor's programs can vary. Comparatively, studying at state universities of applied sciences is inexpensive, usually involving only semester fees and fees for study materials. It becomes more expensive, however, at private universities of applied sciences. At the private Wilhelm Büchner Hochschule, for example, you pay around 2000€ per semester – but in return, you also receive much more than at state universities, such as high-quality study materials.
Here is a cost comparison of the individual programs:
Master's Programs: Admission Requirements and Costs
Almost all master's programs in electrical engineering are offered by state universities. Unlike bachelor's programs, universities can charge tuition fees here, so most master's programs are also expensive in distance learning. Exceptions are the University of Duisburg-Essen, the Verbundstudium universities, and the Hochschule Anhalt, whose master's programs are very affordable.
The following table compares the master's programs in terms of tuition fees and admission requirements:
| Program | University | Duration | Cost | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical Engineering and Management, M.Eng. | Hochschule Schmalkalden | 5 Semesters | 2560 EUR/Sem. | completed technical university education; at least 1 year of relevant professional experience |
| Electrical Engineering, M.Sc. | Zentrum für Fernstudien im Hochschulverbund | 6 Semesters | 2200 EUR/Sem. | relevant Bachelor's or Diploma degree plus at least 1 year of professional practice post-graduation |
| Electrical Engineering, M.Eng. | Zentrum für Fernstudien im Hochschulverbund | 4 Semesters | 2500 EUR/Sem. | relevant Bachelor's or Diploma degree with at least 210 ECTS, 1 year of relevant work experience |
| Electrical and Information Technology, M.Eng. | Hochschule Anhalt | 6 Semesters | 160 EUR/Sem. | degree in Biomedical Engineering, Electrical and Information Engineering, Media Technology, Distance Learning Electrical Engineering or comparable courses of study; at least 1 year of work experience; selection process |
| Electrical Engineering, M.Eng. | Wilhelm Büchner Hochschule | 4 Semesters | 3234 EUR/Sem. | first degree in engineering or natural sciences, knowledge of English |
| Electrical and Information Technology, M.Sc. | University of Duisburg-Essen | 6 Semesters | 329 EUR/Sem. | electrical engineering university education; grade at least 2.5 |
| Electrical Engineering, M.Eng. | Verbundstudium | 6 Semesters | 200 EUR/Sem. | electrical engineering university education |
Bachelor in Electrical Engineering at the Wilhelm Büchner University: Requirements, Contents, Process
WBH is a private university of applied sciences based in Darmstadt/Hesse. Currently, around 2000 participants are enrolled in the distance learning program B.Eng. Electrical and Information Technology at the university. The program lasts 7 semesters in full-time studies and includes 210 credit points. However, the majority of students study part-time and while working – in part-time studies, the program usually takes 10-14 semesters, about 5 years.
Required is a technical high school diploma or a general university entrance qualification. Also, a completed advanced vocational qualification counts as university admission. Individuals who have completed a relevant vocational training and have been working full-time for 2 years can enroll in the program through a university entrance examination.
The program is divided into a basic study and a core and specialization study.
During the basic study, students complete modules totaling 120 credit points, including:
- Mathematical and Scientific Foundations: Mathematics I, Mathematics II, Mathematics III with Laboratory, Introduction to Natural Engineering Fundamentals, Natural Engineering Fundamentals
- Computer Science Area: Basics of Computer Science with Laboratory, Digital and Microcomputer Technology
- Electrical Engineering Area: Introduction to Electrical Engineering and Electronics, Measurement Technology, Control Technology with Laboratory, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Circuit Technology, Systems and Models with Laboratory
- Business Management and Leadership: Basics of Business Administration and Legal Fundamentals, Communication and Management
- Special Engineering Practice: Introductory Project for Engineers
In the core and specialization study, students choose one of the specializations: General Electrical Engineering, Automation Technology, Information and Telecommunication Technology, Energy Information Networks, or Control and Safety Technology. Additionally, they need to complete further mandatory modules:
- Computer Science Area: Design and Communication of Embedded Systems
- Electrical Engineering Area: Control Engineering with Laboratory, Basics of Telecommunication, Digital Signal and Information Processing
- Automation Technology Specialization: Factory Automation 4.0, Process Automation 4.0, Industrial Robotics with Laboratory, Vision Systems with Laboratory, Building Automation
- Information and Telecommunication Technology Specialization: Fundamentals of Information Transmission and Switching with Laboratory, Wireless Technology and Systems, Fiber Optics Technology and Optical Networks with Laboratory, Network Architecture, Services, and Applications, Network Management and Design
- Energy Information Networks Specialization: Basics of Energy Technology, Introduction to Energy Economics and Energy Management, Basics of Information Transmission and Switching with Laboratory, Network Architecture, Services, Applications, Energy Information Networks
- Control and Safety Technology Specialization: Components of Control and Safety Systems, Planning of Control and Safety Systems, Control and Safety Systems, Security Management, Process Design in Railway Operations with Laboratory
- Special Engineering Practice: Engineering Project and Project Management, Practical Professional Phase (PPP)
- Bachelor's Thesis and Colloquium
The distance learning program includes a practical professional phase that students complete between the 4th and 6th semester in full-time studies. Work experience can be acknowledged.
The total costs of the program are 14,910€. Tuition fees are paid in monthly installments, with each installment being 355€. In addition, examination fees of 695€ are due.
Master's in Electrical Engineering & Management via Distance Learning at the University of Applied Sciences Schmalkalden: Requirements, Content, Process
The part-time M.Eng. Electrical Engineering and Management programme at the University of Applied Sciences Schmalkalden is a highly sought-after course, primarily aimed at engineers who aspire to work in leadership positions or as entrepreneurs. The programme is implemented in close collaboration with the Cooperative State University Gera-Eisenach.
An initial technical university degree is required for admission, encompassing at least 210 credit points. Graduates of a 180 ECTS bachelor's programme complete an internship during the distance learning programme to make up for the missing 30 ECTS.
The individual modules of the programme:
- 1st Semester: Systems Theory, Modeling, Applied Mathematics
- 2nd Semester: Commercial Law, Business Administration, Innovation Management, Project Management
- 3rd Semester: Software Engineering, Embedded Systems, Materials and Material Testing
- 4th Semester: Drive Technology, Industrial Image Processing, Realization Technologies, Electromagnetic Compatibility, Maintenance of Electrical Energy Systems, Power Quality
- 5th Semester: Master's Thesis
The modules in the 4th semester are specialization modules. Students choose a total of 4 out of the 6 modules based on their interests.
The entire distance learning programme comprises 14 on-site phases, which are completed in the form of block seminars. The block seminars take place in Schmalkalden or Gera (Thuringia), usually between Thursday and Sunday.
The tuition fees amount to a total of €13,000. Students pay around €2,600 per semester. Additional costs include hidden expenses such as travel costs to the on-site phases and corresponding accommodation costs.
Electrical Engineering vs. Mechatronics: Which is Suitable for Whom?
© StockPhotoPro/Fotolia
Mechatronics is an interdisciplinary field that combines topics from computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering. Mechatronics engineers are all-round engineers and, thanks to their interdisciplinary knowledge, often work as team leaders or in other managerial positions.
On the other hand, electrical engineers are much more specialized than mechatronics engineers. As a graduate in electrical engineering, you are likely to work in a much more practical manner than a mechatronics engineer, although, with a bachelor's or master's degree in electrical engineering, you can also work in managerial positions.
By the way, Robotics is similar to mechatronics, being an interdisciplinary field that combines electrical and control engineering with basic computer science, data science, and artificial intelligence. Currently, you can only study robotics via distance learning at IU International University. With a B.Eng. in Robotics, you could work, for example, as an automation engineer.
Here is an overview of all mechatronics distance learning courses with a B.Eng. degree:
| Course | University | Duration | Fees | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechatronics, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | Wilhelm Büchner University | 7 Semester | from 14193 € total from 237 € monthly | |
| Mechatronics, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | AKAD University | 6 Semester | from 13284 € total from 219 € monthly | |
| Mechatronics, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | Hamburg Distance University | 8 Semester | from 12010 € total from 240 € monthly | |
| Mechatronics, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | DIPLOMA University | 7 Semester | from 11747 € total from 207 € monthly | |
| Mechatronics, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | University of Kaiserslautern | 8 Semester | from 3720 € total from 465 € Semester fee | |
| Mechatronics, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | Institute for Collaborative Studies | 9 Semester | from 2030 € total |
Career Opportunities: What Do Graduates of Electrical Engineering Programmes Work On and Earn?
Graduates of electrical engineering programmes have a wide range of career opportunities in numerous innovative and future-oriented industries. Their technical expertise is highly valued in the energy supply, automation technology, electronics development, and information and communication technology sectors. Typical fields of activity include the planning, development, and optimization of electronic devices, systems, and equipment.
In the industry, they often work as development or project engineers, where they are involved in the conception and implementation of technical solutions. This includes, for example, the development of energy-efficient drives, the design of control systems for machinery, or the integration of sensors in modern production processes. They are also in demand for the planning and operation of energy supply networks, especially with regard to renewable energies and smart grid technologies.
Research and development offer another exciting field of activity, where graduates of electrical engineering contribute with innovations in areas such as electromobility, robotics, medical technology, or artificial intelligence. The development of software solutions for embedded systems or working on future communication technologies like 5G and beyond also provide interesting perspectives.
In addition to technical professions, paths open up to management and leadership positions, for example, in production planning, quality management, or strategic product development. Electrical engineering experts are also sought after in consulting firms, government institutions, and international organizations.
The job prospects for graduates of electrical engineering are excellent, as their qualifications are increasingly in demand due to digitization, automation, and the energy transition. With their expertise, they make a significant contribution to technological advancement and find diverse employment opportunities in a constantly evolving working world.
The salary of electrical engineers in Germany varies depending on work experience, company size, and location. According to StepStone, the average annual salary is around €49,900 gross, equivalent to approximately €4,158 per month. Data from kununu corroborates this figure with an average annual salary of €53,400 gross. Entry-level professionals with less than three years of experience earn an average of €47,700 gross per year. With increasing work experience, the salary can rise to up to €58,300 gross annually.
About the Author Christian Wolf
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