Distance learning program Vehicle Technology (B.Eng.) – AKAD University

👉 The Bachelor of Engineering in Automotive Engineering (B.Eng.) at AKAD University is aimed at individuals interested in technical and scientific fields who are passionate about future topics such as electromobility, hybrid and hydrogen drives, as well as autonomous vehicle systems. In this distance learning programme with minimal on-campus attendance, you will study fundamental engineering sciences, including powertrain technology, transmission technology, vehicle electronics, virtual product development with VR, and digital networking. Sustainability and recycling are also covered. The programme comprises 180 ECTS credits, lasts between 36 and 72 months, and is officially recognised. It qualifies you for roles in development, production, and management within the automotive industry, offered flexibly alongside employment with monthly fees starting at 229 euros.

At a Glance

🏫 Provider AKAD University, UAS based in Stuttgart (Germany)
Over 72,000 graduates in the past 65 years! The AKAD University offers more than 65 part-time distance learning courses with degrees in Bachelor, Master, MBA, and university certificate in the fields of Business & Management, Engineering & Computer Science, Communication & Culture, and Health & Social Sciences. All courses are accredited by ACQUIN or ZeVA and have been reviewed and approved by the Central Office for Distance Learning (ZFU).
📋 Study Format Distance learning program
🎓 Field of Study Technology & InformaticsMechanical engineering
📜 Degree Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.)
⏳ Duration 6 Semesters, Study effort 37 hours weekly
🎯 ECTS 180 Credit Points
🌍 Language of Instruction German
📖 Course contents Key qualifications for study and profession, bridging course in mathematics, bridging course in physics for engineers, My Study Community – Bachelor in Automotive Engineering, My AKAD Toolbox – Bachelor in Engineering and Computer Science, Fundamentals of Materials Science, Basics of Business Administration, Fundamentals of Computer Science and Programming for Engineers, Mathematics Fundamentals I, Basic Physics for Engineers, Manufacturing Technology I, Fundamentals of Statics and Strength of Materials, Fundamentals of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics Fundamentals II, Fundamentals of Descriptive Geometry and Machine Elements, Measurement Technology, English for Technology, Control Engineering, Dynamics, Fundamentals of Product Development and Design, Fundamentals of Technical Thermodynamics, Computer-Aided Design, Systems Theory, Power and Work Machines, Project and Quality Management, Fundamentals of Vehicle Electronics, Overall Vehicle Concept and System Simulation, Automotive Engineering, Vehicle Drives and Vehicle Dynamics, Project Workshop, New Drive Systems, Microcomputer Systems with Laboratory, Project, Basics of Business Intelligence, Bachelor Thesis, Specialisation
📚 Electives Digital platform vehicle, vehicle electronics, management and corporate leadership, modern manufacturing processes, production planning and economics, new propulsion concepts, technology and innovation management, body and lightweight construction, future mobility
👥 In-person sessions one- to three-day seminars usually on weekends, totaling 49 to 51 days depending on the specialization
✅ ZFU Approval The Central State Office for Distance Learning (ZFU) has approved the course Vehicle Technology under the number 138209c.
📅 Enrollment Anytime
💶 Fees
from 219 € monthly
from 13284 € total
🔗 More Info View Vendor Profile

Who is the distance learning course in Automotive Engineering at AKAD University suitable for?

The bachelor's degree programme in Automotive Engineering is aimed at technically and scientifically interested individuals who want to actively contribute to shaping the mobility of tomorrow. It is targeted at prospective engineers who are enthusiastic about innovative drive systems, electromobility, smart manufacturing processes, and digital transformation in the automotive and mobility sector. The course is ideal if you want to prepare for specialist, managerial, or consulting roles in automotive engineering or if you are a working professional seeking flexible study options alongside your job. Typical target groups include school graduates with university entrance qualification, professionals with technical training, technicians, master craftsmen, as well as persons with advanced vocational training or relevant professional experience.

Admission requirements in detail

You can be admitted to the bachelor's degree programme in Automotive Engineering if you have one of the following entrance qualifications:

  • General university entrance qualification (Abitur)
  • Subject-specific university entrance qualification
  • Advanced technical college entrance qualification
  • Equivalent foreign university entrance qualification
  • Vocational advanced training: Recognised qualifications, e.g. technician, master craftsman, business administrator, specialist, educator
  • Vocational training and professional experience: With completed training in a relevant field and appropriate professional experience, admission via the university aptitude test or initially as a probationary study is possible.
  • Proof of German language skills for international applicants: For example DSH-2, TestDaF level 4, C1 according to CEFR, or equivalent certificates

The following knowledge is recommended as a technical foundation:

  • Mathematics at the level of the university entrance qualification
  • English skills at B2 level (according to CEFR)
  • Basic PC user skills

Personally, you should have a passion for technology and natural sciences and be open to new technologies, digitalisation, and interdisciplinary cooperation. Analytical thinking skills, problem-solving ability, systematic working, and the willingness to pursue self-organised further education alongside your job or other commitments will facilitate academic success. Self-motivation, teamwork skills, and an interest in current developments around alternative drives, production, and connected vehicles are advantageous.

How does the part-time vehicle technology degree (B.Eng.) convey practical knowledge?

In the part-time vehicle technology degree at AKAD University, you systematically engage with all engineering fundamentals and forward-looking topics of mobility. The programme comprises 180 ECTS credits and leads to the Bachelor of Engineering degree. You begin with basic modules in mathematics, physics, materials science, computer science, and technical work techniques, thereby acquiring the methodological foundation for engineering work. As you progress, you deepen your knowledge in manufacturing technology, statics, electrical engineering, measurement technology, as well as product development and quality management. A special focus is placed on current developments such as new drive systems (electric, hybrid, hydrogen drives), vehicle electronics, digital vehicle platforms, and sustainable manufacturing processes.

  • You learn to develop modern vehicle concepts and to use simulation methods such as virtual reality in vehicle development.
  • Modules on systems theory, vehicle safety, and business administration prepare you to evaluate and manage technical innovations along the entire value chain.
  • In the course of study, you can choose from various specialisations, e.g. energy and environmental technology, design and construction, production optimisation, technical sales, as well as future mobility, bodywork and lightweight construction, management, or technology and innovation management.
  • Through project work, practical projects, microcomputer laboratories, and online seminars, you strengthen your problem-solving skills and IT competence in vehicle technology.

After completion, you will be able to analyse and solve engineering problems taking into account technical, economic, and sustainability-related aspects.

What structure and course sequence does the part-time vehicle technology degree offer?

You study completely flexibly via distance learning, supported by the digital campus of AKAD University. The programme is divided into six semesters and can be completed in the sprint model in 36 months, the standard model in 48 months, or the stretch model in up to 72 months – breaks and free extensions are possible. The workload averages around 37 hours per week in the full-time model.

  • Semester by semester you move from fundamental subjects to application-oriented projects and choose an individual specialisation in the final third.
  • All learning content is delivered via digital scripts, teaching videos, interactive web trainings, and online libraries.
  • The exams consist of online written exams (available 24/7), term papers, practical projects or oral examinations – all location-independent.
  • Up to 51 days are scheduled for optional or mandatory seminars (mainly at weekends), mostly digital, partly with on-site laboratory phases.
  • At the end there is an independent bachelor thesis with an oral defence (often by videoconference).
  • You are supported by experienced lecturers who ensure both specialist knowledge and practical relevance. Community offerings and study groups enable exchange with fellow students.

You can start the course anytime and complete it at your own pace. The course can be tested free of obligation for four weeks.

For which career paths do you qualify after graduating with a Bachelor of Engineering in Vehicle Technology?

Graduates of the vehicle technology programme are in high demand across industries. The degree qualifies you to take on complex tasks in the future field of mobility:

  • Vehicle Technology Engineer: Development, optimisation and design of modern vehicle components, powertrains or vehicle systems considering sustainability and efficiency.
  • Technical Product Manager: Planning, control and implementation of product developments in the automotive industry or suppliers.
  • Process Manager or Quality Manager: Design and improvement of industrial production processes, quality control and process optimisation in automotive companies.
  • Plant Asset Manager: Ensuring economical and smooth operation of plants and machines in the mobility sector.
  • Specialist in Future Mobility: Development of new mobility solutions, work on autonomous driving, alternative drive concepts or digitalisation of vehicle platforms.
  • Technical Sales, Consulting and Project Management: Interface functions between development, production, customers and management, e.g. in the sales of technically complex products or as a consultant in engineering offices.

The bachelor's degree also gives you access to advanced master's programmes in engineering, industrial engineering or management.

What costs do you have to expect for the part-time vehicle technology degree – and how can you finance it?

The tuition fees for the Bachelor in Vehicle Technology at AKAD University depend on the chosen time model:

  • Sprint model (36 months): €357 per month, plus a one-off examination fee of €960 (total costs around €13,800).
  • Standard model (48 months): €295 per month, plus examination fee (total costs around €14,160).
  • Stretch model (72 months): €213 per month, plus examination fee (total costs around €15,336).

Regular discount campaigns and price reductions can lower the costs – if you enrol by certain deadlines, the examination fee is waived and a discount on tuition fees is granted. The price includes all learning materials, support, online campus and examination services. Travel and accommodation costs for optional face-to-face events are to be borne by yourself.

  • Tax deductibility as work-related expenses or special expenses is possible.
  • Many employers financially support further education or grant time off.
  • Recognition of prior achievements (e.g. from technician school or already completed modules) can reduce study duration and costs – for every 5 ECTS you save one monthly fee.

A four-week trial phase is free of charge. For flexible financing, you can choose between payment models and, if applicable, apply for government funding programmes (e.g. education loan, advancement BAföG).

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