Laurenz Birnbaum’s year abroad at Appalachian State University (App State) in Boone, North Carolina, demonstrates just how versatile a technical master’s program can be. As part of the double degree program for the MCI Master’s in Mechatronics – Smart Technologies, he spent two semesters in the U.S., gaining experiences that go far beyond the typical academic routine.
The English-language master’s program at MCI combines electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, and smart technologies. Topics such as control engineering, drive technology, power electronics, simulation, and robotics are supplemented by electives, labs, projects, and technical case studies. Management, leadership, and entrepreneurship are also part of the program.
The Double Degree Program offers a particularly attractive opportunity. Students can complete part of their master’s program at an international partner university, thereby not only gaining valuable international experience but also earning a second academic degree.
In the U.S., MCI partners with Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. In the Double Degree Program, the duration of study is extended from four to five semesters. Students complete two semesters at MCI and two semesters at the partner university; the fifth semester is devoted to the joint master’s thesis. Upon successful completion, students receive academic degrees from both universities.
The program thus goes well beyond a traditional semester abroad: Students immerse themselves in a second higher education system over an extended period, develop new academic focuses, and simultaneously expand their international network.
Laurenz’s academic year illustrates particularly well just how diverse these opportunities can be. In the “Electron Microscopy” course, he explored the fundamentals of electron microscopy and was able to apply what he learned directly in the lab using an electron microscope.
His studies also led to exciting insights off campus. As part of a field trip to a scientific conference in Tennessee, Laurenz visited the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, among other places, and thus got an up-close look at one of the most important research centers in the U.S.
Another highlight was his work as a research assistant. In this role, Laurenz contributed to a research project in which he designed a focusing ion lens for an Electron Beam Ion Trap (EBIT) at the Harvard-Smithsonian Institute for Astrophysics.
His international study experience thus also provided him with the opportunity to contribute to challenging research questions and gain insights into scientific networks far beyond his own university.
Of course, a year in the U.S. isn’t just about lectures and lab work. For Laurenz, the typical American campus experience was also part of the package. Boone is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and, home to Appalachian State University, offers a vibrant college atmosphere.
Football games included: During one game, the App State logo was even projected onto the night sky as part of a drone show—a moment that will likely remain just as memorable as many a lab session.
It’s precisely this mix that makes an international study experience special: new academic perspectives, new people, a new college culture, and experiences that extend far beyond the classroom.
The Master’s program in Mechatronics – Smart Technologies offers numerous opportunities to further develop your academic profile—from elective modules and projects to research activities and international mobility.
The double degree program adds a particularly intensive form of study abroad experience: studying at two universities, in-depth international experience, and two academic degrees.
Laurenz Birnbaum’s year at Appalachian State University shows what this can lead to: challenging lab work, participation in research projects, international contacts, and personal experiences in a new academic and cultural environment.
Impressions from Lorenz's year abroad at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina
Eindrücke des Auslandsjahres an der Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina
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