The best career prospects:
innovative master’s degree programmes at TU Darmstadt

You’re almost done with your bachelor’s degree but you still enjoy studying and doing research? Then a master’s degree is just the right thing for you! And even better: Doing a specialisation programme at TU Darmstadt! Discover the innovative and interdisciplinary degrees you can study at TU in the heart of Germany – they’re definitely worth a look!

Published: 18th May 2020, last edit: July 21st, 2023

Cutting-edge, innovative and trend-setting – the comprehensive master’s degree programmes at TU Darmstadt

Sustainable urban planning, environmentally friendly raw materials, water management and novel materials technologies – these are some of the important fields of the future! Industry, government, and science: they’re all looking for innovative solutions to the global challenges we are facing today – and highly qualified specialists to find them! And so TU Darmstadt is continuously expanding its range of future-oriented master’s programmes, offering students not only research and education at the cutting edge of technology, but also excellent career opportunities – both here and abroad.

Cognitive Science, Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management or Sustainable Urban Development – these are just three of ever expanding English-language master’s programmes you can enroll in at TU Darmstadt. And that's not all: With a master’s degree from TU Darmstadt, the world is you oyster! From Argentina and Brazil to the USA, TU Darmstadt has lots of opportunities to study abroad at one of over 400 partner universities as part of your master's programme. Sound exciting? Then dive into the diverse international master opportunities at TU Darmstadt!

Step into the Future: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

For those who want to keep up with the latest developments in the field of AI and Machine learning; In this research-oriented Master of Science programme, students further develop their technical and interdisciplinary competencies in the area of artificial intelligence (AI) building on a preceding computer science bachelor's programme. It offers a perfect mix of the necessary basic knowledge as well as the specialist knowledge and competences essential for the degree programme. The integrated labs, as well as, the challenging projects are offering students the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research.

Gaining practical experience early on allows students to bridge the gap between theory and practice, preparing them for success in their chosen professional domains.

Graduates who have completed the M.Sc. programme in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning find success across diverse professional domains within the advanced IT sector. They excel not only as software developers, tackling intricate IT challenges with AI solutions, but also as AI consultants and researchers in development.

Expand your Horizons: Computer Science

The English-language programme M.Sc. Computer Science offers electives and specialisation options to allow for individual study design. The focus is on “Software and Hardware”, “Theory”, “Data Science and Engineering”, “Distributed Computing” and “Visual Computing”. It expands on the knowledge of well established topics and adds news to be explored and research in great detail, offering students the most up-to-date information. Computer Science plays a leading role in research and development in many industries and projects. This degrees ensures that the students are well prepared to face the demands and requirements expected of them and gives them the tools to utilize their abilities to the fullest

The employment prospects for computer science graduates are diverse, encompassing both traditional employment and self-employment opportunities. They can find work across various industries, public administration, and research institutions. Their responsibilities include developing, programming, and modifying software and hardware programs, especially in relation to complex information, communication, and control systems. Computer scientists also contribute to tasks such as evaluating existing IT systems for security and effectiveness, managing IT projects, and creating new software projects that automate administrative tasks and production control. Additionally, they may be involved in database development and the creation of web-based information systems.

Individualism and Support: Mechanics

The English-language interdisciplinary M.Sc. Mechanics deepens and expands the mathematical and mechanical engineering skills and knowledge acquired in the Bachelor’s degree programme as well as the application of methods of mechanics for solving scientific and engineering problems. Civil engineering and geodesy, mechanical engineering, mathematics and physics will be linked cross-departmentally at the interface of abstract mathematical and application-oriented engineering problems. The Programme is adjustable to student’s individual interests by choosing the extensive mandatory subject area along the different fields. For the final compilation of the personal examination and study plans, the mentor system will provide guidance and support.

The Mechanics Master's programme prepares graduates for diverse career opportunities in research and development, specializing in mechanical-theoretical fields. They can work as executive mechanics engineers in various sectors such as automotive, civil engineering, materials science, astronautics, environmental engineering, biomechanics, economics, and scientific positions at universities and research institutions. Their expertise in higher mechanics and mathematics enables them to contribute to traditional and emerging areas, including acoustics, nanotechnology, fluid mechanics, thermomechanical coupling, and optimization algorithms.

Research at forefront: Soft Matter and Materials

Dive into the captivating realm of soft matter and materials! The Master's program in Soft Matter and Materials offers a thrilling exploration of physics and chemistry in this dynamic field. Uncover the secrets of creating building blocks such as polymers, supramolecular tectons, and colloids, while unraveling the fascinating connections between structure, dynamics, and properties. Get hands-on experience with functional concepts using both synthetic and biologically-relevant components.

As an international degree programme that emphasizes teamwork and collaboration, both in laboratory internships and in the larger research blocks of the advanced course sequence, students also acquire intercultural skills. This programme is offered by Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz and TU Darmstadt within the Rhine-Main University Alliance RMU.

Soft Matter and Materials programme graduates have excellent career prospects in leading positions within national and international chemical companies, including (bio-physico) chemistry. Strong physical sciences inclination can lead to senior roles in IT companies and banks. Interdisciplinary graduates are sought after for project management positions in various industries and foundations. Pursuing a doctorate is recommended, particularly for those aspiring to academic careers. TU Darmstadt and JGU Mainz offer ample doctoral study opportunities in soft matter, soft materials, and related research associations.

Creativity as the driving Force: Synthetic Biology

The English-taught master's degree program in Synthetic Biology combines molecular biology, engineering, and materials science to empower biological cells with new molecular functions. It is the first program dedicated to the interdisciplinary nature of synthetic biology, preparing students for this emerging field. The program focuses on laboratory-based work using modern methodologies, emphasizing mathematical modelling of biological systems and the application of engineering principles. Students are encouraged to think creatively, work independently, and translate theoretical knowledge into practical projects.

The Master's degree programme in Synthetic Biology prepares graduates for careers in industry, research institutes, and doctoral programs. They can find opportunities in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and emerging bioeconomy sectors such as gene therapy, medical technology, biosensors, bioinformatics, and data analytics. Additional career paths include science journalism, administrative roles, and consulting in technology assessment, genetic engineering, patenting, and biosafety.

Higher, further, Aerospace Engineering

Our hot tip for all technology fans: The Department of Mechanical Engineering now offers the new English-language Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering. A really exciting field of research for all high-flyers. Courses are also held in cooperation with ESOC (European Space Operations Center). In addition to the basics in fluid dynamics and flight mechanics, there are also many exciting practice-oriented tutorials, for example on cockpit design or additive manufacturing. There is also already a blog post about the Aerospace Engineering degree programme , so check it out!

Addressing social challenges: Civil Engineering

The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering also has a new Master's programme with a super exciting focus: Civil Engineering. This programme is bilingual (English and German), interdisciplinary and internationally oriented. Have you studied civil engineering in your Bachelor's degree and would like to get involved with sustainable planning and implementation of construction projects? Then take a look at the department's website. You can choose your own focus in many elective modules. By the way, international cooperation, even across disciplinary borders, is particularly important at Civil Engineering.

Application-focused and versatile: Biomedical Engineering

We have exciting research collaborations not only internationally, but also within the Rhine-Main region. A great example of this is Biomedical Engineering, a degree programme offered by the Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology in cooperation with Goethe University in Frankfurt. Biomedical Engineering teaches you both technical and medical basics and allows you to research new technologies that could save lives in the future. In her blog post about her studies , Jennifer is particularly convinced of the great practical relevance of the course.

International excellence – Cognitive Science

Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Industry 4.0, Cybersecurity – these are the issues that Cognitive Science focuses on! In the English-language master’s degree programme, you’ll develop the intelligent systems of the future together with computer scientists, roboticists, designers, and psychologists, and become a sought-after specialist for business, industry, research and education.

Wanted: Linguistic talents – Data and Discourse Studies

The analysis of complex data and language processing for various target groups – that’s what you’ll learn how to do in the English language master’s degree programme of Data and Discourse Studies. As a data journalist, a marketing and market research specialist or a management consultant, you’ll later be working hand in hand with data scientists to transform data into powerful strategy papers, reports, dossiers, and company reports.

Super exciting – Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management

Innovative solutions and technologies are the keys to success today and digitalisation and global networking have made is even more important than ever! TU Darmstadt is running with these advancements and offering the English-language master’s programme Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management since the winter semester 2020-21. Four semesters and tons of areas of specialisation will allow you to learn everything you need to know to start your own business or to promote and manage innovations in companies, management consultancies or organisations!

Anything is possible – Information and Communication Engineering

With a master's degree in Information and Communication Engineering, all doors and career paths will be open to you! From the electrical and electronics industry, mechanical engineering, aerospace, the automotive industry and medical technology to information, communication, energy, and automation technology – you’ll be in high demand everywhere as a highly trained electrical engineer! And with TU Darmstadt’s Double-Degree Programme, you can earn not just one, but two master’s degrees! You’ll spend part of your degrees at a partner university, such as in Sweden or the US! You can also go abroad as part of an exchange programme at one of the many partner universities worldwide. And afterwards? You can start your career or decide to work on a Ph.D., naturally at TU Darmstadt. Find out more about curriculum and career perspectives here!

It’s all connected – Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Logistics and supply chains are your thing? Then you should definitely take a look at the English language master’s degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management at TU Darmstadt. Over the course of four semesters, you’ll become an expert in logistics planning and controlling, supplier management, production planning and control, and project and process management. No matter whether in business, administration, organisations, or research, you’ll be in high demand with your expert knowledge!

Materials of the future – Materials Science

Scarcity of raw materials and energy leads to an enormously high demand for efficient and resource-saving materials worldwide. In the English-language master’s programme Materials Science, you’ll research and develop the materials of the future, with a focus on energy materials, circular economy and more. In the end, you’ll be super well-equipped for your career in national and international automotive, aerospace, chemical, semiconductor, and health care industries, as well as the energy sector! Sophie, Sean Janik and Torben have collected more information about the degree programme for you in their blogpost.

From algebra to stochastics – Mathematics

Are you passionate about math? Perfect! In the English-language master’s degree in mathematics, everything revolves around algebra, analysis, geometry, numerical analysis and all the rest! As highly trained mathematicians, the (business) world is wide open to you after your master’s degree: from insurance companies, banks, software and system houses to engineering offices and research institutes – your mathematical knowledge will be in huge demand everywhere!

A true force of research – let us introduce: M. Sc. Physics

Starting in the winter semester 2022/23, physics enthusiasts can study the brand-new Master's programme in Physics at the TU! In this degree programme, you will expand your knowledge of mathematics and natural sciences through advanced and special lectures as well as courses in experimental and theoretical physics. Are you interested in Nuclear Physics and Astrophysics, High Energy Density in Matter or a colourful mixture of all of these? Then we have good news, because with M. Sc. Physics you can really dive deep into these topics! On top of that, your theoretical education is complemented by a one-year research phase, so that you can start your career as an expert in basic and industrial research, application-related development for planning and auditing tasks in industry and administration, or in banking, politics, management and academic teaching.

Darmstadt meets Vietnam – Sustainable Urban Development

In the joint degree master’s programme in Sustainable Urban Development, you’ll research and learn in multi- and interdisciplinary projects how to initiate, control, and implement processes of sustainable urban development. And not only at TU Darmstadt, but also at the Vietnamese German University (VGU) in Ho Chi Minh City! During a total of four semesters, you’ll be perfectly prepared for a career in national and international urban development – and all of the classes are in English. Read more about it in Ngoc's blogpost!

TropHEE – Tropical Hydrogeology and Environmental Engineering

Hydrogeology, Environmental Geosciences and Engineering – these fields are all part of the research-oriented Tropical Hydrogeology and Environmental Engineering master’s degree programme. During the programme, you’ll learn methods and modern techniques to enable sustainable water management in tropical and subtropical countries from a geoscientific perspective. Want to learn more? Then have a look at the curriculum.

More master’s programmes at TU Darmstadt

You’ve already learned about a couple of our promising, international and interdisciplinary master’s programmes. And if that’s not enough for you, TU Darmstadt offers more than 50 additional master’s programmes in German for every field of interest and every department! You can find a complete overview here – but before you start browsing, there’s one more important thing to note: If you’re interested in a German Master's programme, you must be able to provide proof of comprehensive German language skills when you apply. If that’s no problem for you then let's get started! Find out how to apply for your dream degree. See you soon at TU Darmstadt!

How do I apply?

You want to get a Bachelor's or a Master's degree at TU Darmstadt? We explain to you what the application process looks like.

All prospective students can apply via the TUCaN portal. Please first create a TUCaN account. You will then receive access data by email so that you can complete the online application. Please note that it can take up to four hours for the activation email to be sent. Please also check your spam folder.

With the access data, you can then start your application under the corresponding menu item.

Information about the application and the process

More information for international prospective students about the necessary documents, application as well as semester deadlines

An important note: Please find out in good time which language skills are required for the respective course of study and which language certificates are accepted. If necessary, allow enough time for a language test.