Biomechanik (weiterführend)

The Studium (university studies) takes place at universities. Learning locations at the university include lecture halls, seminar and practice rooms, libraries, and laboratories. At home, activities such as preparing for and following up on courses, completing assignments, and potentially participating in online courses are carried out.

The standard period of study is 2-4 semesters.

Study costs include enrollment and administration fees, as well as semester contributions (e.g., for student services, student union, semester ticket). Where applicable, tuition fees may apply for 'long-term students,' for a second Studium (university studies), or after exhausting a set study credit. Expenses for learning materials and study needs, such as specialized literature and excursions, are also incurred. Contributions for student health insurance (typically when exceeding the age limit of 25 years or certain income limits) may also be required. Information on funding opportunities can be found from the Deutsches Studierendenwerk (German Student Union) and the Federal Law on Individual Promotion of Education (BAföG).

Compulsory modules include, for example: Attention and Perception, Biomechanics of Elastic Tissues, Biomechanical Diagnostics, Biomechanical Ergonomics, Research Methodology, Modeling and Simulation in Biomechanics, Neuropsychology of Movement, Specific Measurement and and Test Procedures in Movement Sciences. Elective modules may include: Assessment Procedures in Movement Sciences, Biological Cybernetics, Muscle Physiology, Possibilities and Limitations of the Musculoskeletal System, Technical Mechanics. Practical study content may include internships (e.g., in industrial companies in technical orthopedics).

One 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. Practical exercises, such as conducting biomechanical measurement procedures in a test laboratory. Independent work involves preparing for and following up on courses, researching in libraries, preparing presentations, and completing assignments (also during the lecture-free period). Deepening skills in scientific work is important. Planning the Studium (university studies) independently, adhering to specified study periods, and submitting study and examination achievements on time (self-discipline and organizational talent are required) are crucial. Career preparation may involve completing internships (e.g., in industrial companies in technical orthopedics) and preparing for entry into professional life.

The following fields of study can be alternatives for Biomechanics (advanced): In the field of Biology: Biology (advanced), Biosciences, Life Sciences (advanced), Bionics (advanced). Commonality: analyzing and describing biological structures with mathematical, information technology, and statistical methods. In the field of Medical and Rehabilitation Technology: Medical Technology (advanced), Orthopedics, Rehabilitation Technology (advanced). Commonality: performing technical calculations, creating design documents, and acquiring medical knowledge to apply in device development.

Universities require, for example, the following degrees: Applied Natural Sciences (undergraduate), Biology (undergraduate), Biomechanics (undergraduate), Biotechnology (undergraduate), Health Sports (undergraduate), Mechanics (undergraduate), Medical Technology (undergraduate), Physiotherapy (undergraduate).

Additional and key qualifications facilitate a successful career entry. For example, topics such as Quality Management, Presentation, and Time Management may be relevant. Elective modules like Technical Mechanics can also provide additional qualifications. Internships, for example in industrial companies in technical orthopedics, specifically prepare students for professional life. Offers for acquiring additional and key qualifications can be found at the Career Centers of universities (see contact details of the respective university): Universities in Germany - Hochschulkompass University Search.

This advanced study program deepens knowledge from the undergraduate program and, if applicable, professional experience. Students usually specialize in specific topics. For example, Biological Cybernetics can be a topic. The program leads to a second university degree.

Examples: Biomechanical Engineering (Master), Biomechanics-Motorics-Movement Analysis (Master), Human Movement Science (Master).

For Master's graduates in Biomechanics, various fields of activity are available in the private sector, such as data collection, analysis, 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.

1960s: Biomechanics became an independent field of study, with the first international scientific conference on Biomechanics held in Zurich in 1967. 1999: The Bologna Process began: Reform of the European higher education landscape with objectives including: Creating a unified European Higher Education Area, harmonizing study programs and degrees (introduction of Bachelor's and Master's programs), improving the mobility of students and teaching staff.

The degree awarded in this field is Master of Science (M.Sc.).

During the Studium (university studies), no remuneration is typically received. However, compensation can be arranged for practical phases or internships.

Legal regulations for the Studium (university studies) are determined at the federal level (Hochschulrahmengesetz - HRG), state level (Hochschulgesetze), and university level (university statutes, study and examination regulations). These regulations cover topics such as the accreditation of Bachelor's and Master's programs and qualification frameworks.

A prerequisite for this Studium (university studies) is a first professionally qualifying university degree. Typically, an undergraduate degree in biomechanics or a related field such as health sports (undergraduate) or medical technology (undergraduate) is required. Depending on the university, an internal selection process may be conducted, with criteria such as performance in the first professionally qualifying Studium. Proof of English language skills may be required, and some institutions may request vaccinations.