Automatisierungstechnik (weiterführend)

The studies take place at universities and universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen). Learning locations at the university include lecture halls, seminar and practice rooms, and libraries. At home, students prepare for and follow up on courses, complete assignments, and potentially participate in online courses.

The standard duration of studies is 2-4 semesters.

Study costs include enrollment and administration fees, as well as semester contributions (e.g., for the student union, student body, semester ticket). Tuition fees may apply for long-term students, a second degree, or after exhausting a set study credit. There are also expenses for learning materials and study needs, such as specialized literature and excursions, and contributions for student health insurance (usually when exceeding the age limit of 25 or certain income limits). Information on funding opportunities can be found at Deutsches Studierendenwerk and the Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz (BAföG).

Compulsory modules include, for example: automation technology, embedded systems, advanced control engineering, identification and control of mechatronic systems, power electronic systems, process control technology, control of machine tools, robotics, and image processing. Elective modules may include: additive manufacturing processes, change management, ethics of artificial intelligence and robotics, fundamentals of patent and utility model law, control engineering laboratory, technology impact assessment. Practical study content varies by university and may include internships, practical modules, or practical semesters (e.g., in industrial companies).

Students should be prepared for the following conditions and requirements: Attending lectures and seminars in the university's lecture halls and seminar rooms during the semester; potentially participating in online courses from home. For part-time studies, individuals work during the day on weekdays and attend university in the evenings or on weekends. Independent work involves preparing for and following up on courses, researching in libraries, preparing presentations, and completing assignments (even during lecture-free periods). It is important to deepen skills in scientific work. Students must independently plan their studies, adhere to given study times, and submit study and examination achievements on time (self-discipline and organizational talent are required). Career preparation may involve completing internships (e.g., in industrial companies).

Students can complete parts of their studies abroad. For example, the international Master's program "Automation and Safety" is offered by the University of Duisburg-Essen and partner universities in countries such as Brazil, Japan, Norway, or Spain. The degree awarded is Master of Science (M.Sc.). Further information can be found at the University of Duisburg-Essen: Automation and Safety (ISE).

The following study programs can be alternatives for Automation Engineering (advanced): In the field of Mechatronics and Automation Engineering, these include Mechatronics (advanced), Robotics, Autonomous Systems (advanced), Electrical Engineering (advanced), Microelectronics (advanced), Sensor Technology (advanced). Common aspects include developing automation technology systems and acquiring knowledge of software creation and programming. In the field of Mechanical and Plant Engineering, these include Mechanical Engineering (advanced), Production Engineering (advanced), Automotive Engineering (advanced), Process Engineering (advanced). Common aspects include developing, designing, and supervising the manufacturing of machines and their components, and applying technologies in metal processing, electrical engineering, and automation engineering.

Universities typically require the following undergraduate degrees: Automation Engineering (bachelor's), Electrical Engineering (bachelor's), Mechatronics (bachelor's), Robotics, Autonomous Systems (bachelor's), Technical Computer Science (bachelor's).

Additional and key qualifications facilitate a successful career entry. Topics such as business administration, time management, and presentation techniques are relevant. Elective modules like Additive Manufacturing Processes can also provide additional qualifications. Internships, for example in industrial companies, specifically prepare students for professional life. Opportunities to acquire additional and key qualifications can be found at university Career Centers (see contact details of the respective university) and through the Hochschulkompass university search in Germany.

This advanced study program deepens knowledge from the undergraduate program and, if applicable, professional experience. Students usually specialize in specific topics, such as automation or IT. Additionally, there are master's programs that cover a broad spectrum of automation engineering. The program leads to a second university degree. Automation Engineering is also available as a part-time study program.

Examples include Applied Automation (Master), Automation and Safety (Master), Automated Energy Systems (Master), Automation (Master), Automation Engineering and Computer Science (Master), Automation Engineering and Robotics (Master), Digitalization and Automation (Master), Industrial Informatics (Master).

For master's graduates in Automation Engineering, various fields of activity are available in the private sector, such as quality assurance, quality management, or process and product development. Those aiming for an academic career at a university usually need to pursue a doctorate. A doctorate may also facilitate access to higher professional positions in the private sector and research.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, industrialization intensified with the invention and industrial use of steam and spinning machines. Mechanical engineering became a subject taught in Technical Schools (from around 1850). In 1882, the first independent Electrical Engineering degree program was established in Darmstadt, focusing on automation solutions. In 1957, the first chair for Control and Automation Technology was founded. In the 20th century, many Electrical Engineering institutes expanded to include the field of Automation Technology. In 1999, the Bologna Process began, aiming, among other goals, to create a unified European Higher Education Area, harmonize degree programs and qualifications (introducing Bachelor's and Master's degrees), and improve the mobility of students and lecturers.

Degree titles, depending on the study program (Studium), can be Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) or Master of Science (M.Sc.).

During the study program (Studium), no remuneration is received. Compensation can be agreed upon for practical phases (Praxisphasen).

At the federal level, the Higher Education Framework Act (Hochschulrahmengesetz - HRG) as amended on 19.01.1999 and last changed by the law of 15.11.2019 applies. Also, joint structural guidelines of the federal states (Bundesland) for the accreditation of Bachelor's and Master's degree programs (KMK resolution) and the Qualifications Framework for German Higher Education Degrees (developed in cooperation with the German Rectors' Conference, the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs, and the Federal Ministry of Education and Research) are in effect. At the state (Bundesland) level, higher education laws in conjunction with administrative regulations, e.g., on the accreditation of study programs, and qualification or higher education entrance ordinances apply. At the university level, the university's statutes and the study and examination regulations for the degree programs in the respective field of study are valid.

The prerequisite for the study program (Studium) is a first professionally qualifying university degree; usually, an undergraduate degree (grundständiges Studium) in Automation Technology is required. For continuing education degree programs, at least 1 year of professional experience is necessary. Depending on the university (Hochschule), an internal selection process takes place. Selection criteria may include performance in the first professionally qualifying degree program.