Automotive Mechatronics and Management
Program Overview
The Master's in Automotive Mechatronics and Management program combines mechatronic expertise with business economics to prepare students for engineering and management roles in the automotive industry. With a focus on integrating mechanics, electronics, and informatics, the program emphasizes practical application through internships and a Master's Thesis, ensuring graduates are equipped for the rapid technological advancements in vehicle engineering. The program's strong industry partnerships provide career opportunities and contribute to the high demand for graduates in mechatronics and vehicle manufacturing.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master's degree program, Automotive Mechatronics and Management (AMM), addresses the convergence of mechanics, electronics, and informatics in modern vehicle engineering. The program aims to equip students with expertise in mechatronics and business economics, preparing them for roles as engineers and managers in the automotive industry. Rapid developments in vehicle technology necessitate professionals who can integrate mechanical and electronic components optimally to meet customer demands for comfort, safety, and efficiency. The program is designed to produce graduates capable of combining complex components into innovative mechatronic systems, considering both qualitative and cost aspects. Graduates will be prepared for roles in executing and managing mechatronic development projects, designing and validating mechatronics vehicle systems, and working as quality engineers in product development. The program is a Master of Science in Engineering (MSc), lasting four semesters (full-time), with semesters 2 and 3 partially dedicated to internships, requiring some Friday evening and Saturday lectures. The program boasts strong industry partnerships, with leading automotive companies actively involved.
Outline:
The curriculum is structured to provide a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
- Automotive Technology & Mechatronics: 50 ECTS. This section likely covers core mechatronics principles and their application in automotive systems.
- Management: 19 ECTS. This section likely covers business management principles relevant to the automotive industry.
- Projects & Master's Thesis: 43 ECTS. This significant portion emphasizes practical application, with projects and the Master's Thesis ideally conducted in collaboration with industry partners. The program provides support for students throughout this process.
- Social Skills: 6 ECTS. This section likely focuses on developing interpersonal and communication skills.
- Elective Courses: 4 ECTS. Students have some flexibility to tailor their studies to their interests. The program integrates practical experience through internships (primarily in semesters 2 and 3), with Mondays and Tuesdays of those semesters largely free for this purpose. The significant weight given to the project work (43 ECTS) and Master's Thesis suggests these are major components of the final assessment.
Teaching:
The program is taught in English and involves a mix of Austrian and international students, creating an international learning environment. Many professors and lecturers have industry experience or close ties to the automotive sector. The program emphasizes a practice-oriented approach, with strong industry collaboration ensuring relevance and real-world application of knowledge. The program values student feedback and fosters a supportive learning environment.
Careers:
Graduates are expected to find employment in various roles within the automotive industry. These include:
- Execution and management of mechatronic development projects.
- Design and validation of mechatronic vehicle systems.
- Quality engineers in product development and quality assurance. The program highlights that approximately 80% of graduates remain in Austria after graduation, securing employment, often based on their Master's Thesis work. The strong industry partnerships contribute to career opportunities.
Other:
The program emphasizes the strong presence of mechatronics and vehicle manufacturing in the Upper Austrian economy, contributing to the high demand for graduates in these fields. The program also mentions that students have options for individualizing their studies through project choices, Master's Thesis focus, individual qualification (up to 4 ECTS in the first two semesters), and electives (up to 4 ECTS in the third semester). The possibility of part-time work during the program is also mentioned, with semesters 2 and 3 offering flexibility, and the fourth semester generally free from teaching.
EU/EEA citizens: 363.36 EUR + 20,70 EUR per semester. Non-EU/EEA citizens: 726.72 EUR + 20,70 EUR per semester. Merit-based scholarships are available.
Introduction to FH OÖ
FH OÖ, also known as the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, is a leading public higher education institution in Austria. Founded in 1993, it operates across four campuses: Hagenberg, Linz, Steyr, and Wels. The university is recognized for its practice-oriented education, strong industry connections, and research-intensive programs. It is accredited by the Agency for Quality Assurance and Accreditation Austria and is part of Austria’s largest network of applied sciences universities.
Research and Industry Collaboration
FH OÖ is Austria’s most research-intensive university of applied sciences, with over 500 ongoing R&D projects and collaborations with industry leaders like BMW, KTM, and Voest Alpine. The university integrates the latest research findings into its teaching, ensuring students gain cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills.
International Environment
With students from over 70 countries and partnerships with 260+ universities worldwide, FH OÖ fosters a multicultural and inclusive environment. The university supports international students through language courses, career fairs, and study abroad opportunities.
Campus Life and Facilities
FH OÖ’s campuses in Hagenberg, Linz, Steyr, and Wels offer modern infrastructure, state-of-the-art labs, and vibrant student life. Students can participate in sports, cultural events, and networking activities, ensuring a balanced academic and social experience.
6. Career Prospects
FH OÖ boasts a 99% employability rate, with most graduates working in their chosen fields. The university’s strong ties to industry provide students with internship opportunities, career guidance, and access to a network of 21,500 alumni.
Sustainability and Social Responsibility
FH OÖ emphasizes sustainability in its operations and curriculum. For example, it provides students with reusable coffee cups to promote eco-friendly practices. The university also integrates social responsibility into its programs, particularly in fields like social work and environmental sciences.
Why Choose FH OÖ?
- Practice-oriented education with direct industry collaboration.
- Fixed study duration: 6 semesters for bachelor’s and 4 semesters for master’s programs.
- Top rankings and high-quality teaching.
- International exposure and global networking opportunities.
Entry Requirements:
Completed Bachelor’s degree (180 ECTS or equivalent) in Electromechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related subject areas. Solid English language skills.
