Degree and duration

Regular program length of 3 years leading to a "Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)" degree; 180 credit points (corresponding to the Europen Credit Transfer and Accumulation System - ETCS) must be completed. Individual program length may differ from normal program length.

Program structure

The program primarily teaches the principles of engineering, as well as fundamentals in physics and mathematics. In higher semesters, specialization is possible by choosing a certain elective subject.

Mandatory topics are:

• Advanced mathematics
• Engineering mechanics
• Manufacturing processes
• Materials science
• Thermodynamics
• Fuild mechanics
• Physics
• Electrical engineering
• Measurement and regulation technology
• Computer science
• Machine dynamics
• Machines and processes
• Operational production management

Electable specializations are:

• Global production management
• Energy engineering
• Automotive engineering

By way of research and practical orientation of the six-semester, English-taught Bachelor’s degree program for Mechanical Engineering (International) at KIT, graduates of the program are prepared for lifelong learning and employment in typical professional fields of mechanical engineering either in private industry, services and public administration.

They acquire the necessary communicative, organizational, social, and intercultural skills to pursue careers in international companies and organizations. Graduates acquire the academic qualifications to pursue a Master’s degree program in Mechanical Engineering or related disciplines.

Within the fundamental subjects of their studies, graduates acquire sound basic knowledge in mathematics, mechanics and materials science, plus practical skills in design and construction, logistics, management, manufacturing and production planning. This is complemented by basic knowledge in electrical engineering, information technology, and natural sciences. In the field of business management international standards in accounting, company structures and international law receive special attention.

This in-depth knowledge of scientific theories, principles and methods allows graduates to successfully solve specific tasks of mechanical engineering using a unique approach. Through project work in international teams graduates are well prepared for the technical and practical requirements of the engineering profession in an increasingly globalized economy. Their intercultural skills acquired during the study coursework enable graduates to act responsibly and appropriately in each situation within an international business environment.

In their major subjects, complementary subjects and in their thesis project graduates develop cross-disciplinary research, problem-solving and planning skills for technical systems by using a combination of theoretical and practical approaches. Throughout the program the acquisition of skills is based on international standards. Graduates have the qualification to proficiently assess technical systems in their specific fields and they are able to generalize results and to generate new solutions.

Only applicants with sufficient knowledge of the English language (Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL) with at least 570 points in the paper-based test, 250 points in the computer-based test or 88 points in the internet-based test; IELTS with a min. score of 6.5 or equivalent certificates) will take part in the selection process. Proof of English language skills is not necessary for applicants with English as their native language or who have completed their education in an English taught program or in an English speaking country. Selection is based upon

1. a subject-specific test to assess the ability to study
2. profile scores in mathematics and physics from the last two half terms (finished before April 30) according to the official school transcript, if those scores factor into the final grade for graduation or are a prerequisite for acquiring the university entrance qualification. Profile scores can be replaced by the SAT subject test in physics
3. a motivational letter
4. vocational and additional accomplishments

In order to assess the ability of each applicant to study this degree program, only the results of the SAT test (comprised of three parts reading, writing and language and maths) are consulted. The SAT test serves as evaluation tool to verify the subject-specific prerequisites of the applicant which are either not listed in the course assessment or insufficient. In order to pass the subject-specific test to assess the ability to study, a score of at least 1200 points in the SAT test is necessary.

The KIT offers support for all first-year students in order to have a successful start of their studies. Numerous orientation events and mentoring programs at the KIT-Departments help students to make friends, orientate themselves and find support where needed. The central online portalstudienstart.kit.edu is a first guide to all important offers, brings together all relevant information and contains helpful hints for a successful start of your studies:

• advisory centers
• mentoring programs
• info sessions
• workshops
• extensive online information

• KIT-Fakultät für Maschinenbau
• Prüfungsausschuss
• Informationen zum Auslandsstudium
• Fachschaft MACH/CIW

• Course catalog WT20
• Course catalog WT20/21 (PDF)
• Archive of previous catalogs