Batterietechnik (weiterführend)

This course of study takes place at universities and universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschule). Learning locations include lecture halls, seminar and exercise rooms, libraries, laboratories at the university, and at home (e.g., preparing for and reviewing courses, completing homework; possibly participating in online courses).

The standard duration of study 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). Where applicable, tuition fees may apply for 'long-term students,' for a second degree, or after consuming a set study credit. Expenses for learning materials and study needs, such as specialized literature and excursions, as well as contributions for student health insurance (usually when exceeding the age limit of 25 or certain income limits), may also be incurred. Information on funding opportunities can be found at the German National Association for Student Affairs (Deutsches Studierendenwerk) and the Federal Education Assistance Act (Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz - BAföG).

Dual study programs (Duales Studium) combine academic study with professional activity or practical phases in a company. In the advanced field of Battery Technology, there are practice-integrating dual study programs available. Further information and a search for dual study programs can be found on the AusbildungPlus portal.

The curriculum includes modules such as Battery Data Analytics, Battery Management Systems, Battery System Technology, Computer-Aided Material Design, Digital Signal Processing, Sensors and Cloud Technologies, Electrical Energy Systems, Electrochemistry, Fundamentals of Batteries, Functional Components and Technologies for Automotive and Mechatronics, Colloids and Interfaces, Measurement Techniques, New Industrial Technologies, Economic Foundations of Electricity Markets, Production Engineering, Sustainability and Product Lifecycle Management. Practical study content, depending on the university, may include internships, practical modules, practical semesters (e.g., in industrial companies), and semesters abroad.

Universities may conduct aptitude tests or selection interviews as part of the admission process.

Students should prepare for the following conditions and requirements: Lectures are attended in university lecture halls and seminar rooms during the semester; online courses may be taken from home if necessary. Practical exercises, such as laboratory internships, are conducted. Students independently prepare for and review lectures, research in libraries, prepare presentations, and complete assignments (even during lecture-free periods). Skills in scientific work are deepened. Students are responsible for planning their studies, adhering to specified study periods, and completing study and examination requirements on time (self-discipline and organizational talent are required). Internships, for example in battery manufacturing companies, are completed if necessary, and preparations are made for entering professional life.

Universities typically require the following undergraduate (grundständig) degrees: Battery Technology, Renewable Energies, Energy, Resource Management, Electromobility, Automotive Informatics, Electronics, Electrical Engineering, Energy Technology, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, and Materials Science.

Additional and key qualifications facilitate a successful career start. Topics such as learning and working techniques, communication, and conflict or critical thinking skills are relevant. Internships, for example in battery manufacturing companies, specifically prepare students for professional life. Opportunities to acquire additional and key qualifications can be found at the Career Centers of universities in Germany.

This advanced (weiterführend) study field deepens knowledge gained from an undergraduate (grundständig) degree and, if applicable, professional experience. Students usually specialize in specific topics, which may include electrical energy storage, critical raw materials, or networked value creation. Additionally, there are Master's programs that cover a broad spectrum of battery technology. This course of study leads to a second university degree. Battery Technology is also available as a dual study program (duales Studium) or a part-time study program (Teilzeitstudiengang).

Examples: Battery Technology (Master), Battery Materials and Technology (Master), Sustainable Battery Production Engineering (Master).

For Master's graduates in battery technology, various fields of activity are available in the private sector, such as energy technology, environmental technology, 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.

20th to 21st century: The transition from fossil fuels to renewable energies has increased the demand for batteries and energy storage systems due to electromobility, energy generation, and consumer electronics. 1999: The Bologna Process began, reforming the European higher education landscape with goals including creating a unified European higher education area, harmonizing study programs and degrees (introducing Bachelor's and Master's degrees), and improving the mobility of students and lecturers. Currently: New Master's programs in battery and hydrogen technology are being established.

Degree titles vary depending on the study program: Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) or Master of Science (M.Sc.).

No remuneration is received during studies. For practical phases, such as during an internship in a company, payment can be agreed upon. It may be possible to write the Master's Thesis as part of an activity in a company. Remuneration during this time usually aligns with that of an internship. Remuneration during a dual study program (duales Studium) varies depending on the company.

At the federal level, the Higher Education Framework Act (Hochschulrahmengesetz - HRG) and joint structural guidelines from the federal states (Bundesländer) for the accreditation of Bachelor's and Master's programs are in place. At the state (Bundesland) level, higher education laws in conjunction with administrative regulations, e.g., on the accreditation of study programs, apply. At the university level, the university's statutes and the study and examination regulations for the respective study program are relevant.

A prerequisite for studying is a first professionally qualifying university degree; usually, an undergraduate degree (Studium) in fields such as electrical engineering, chemical engineering, environmental engineering, materials science, or (from 2027) in the undergraduate field of battery technology is required. Depending on the university, an internal selection process takes place. Selection criteria include, for example, performance in the first professionally qualifying degree. For dual study programs (duale Studiengänge), an internship or employment contract with a suitable company (so-called practical partner) is usually required. Professional practical experience and English language skills may also need to be demonstrated.