Mechatronics – Smart Technologies | Master


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 Application Deadline: March 31, 2024

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Short Facts
  • Major Smart Technologies of Master's program in Mechatronics
  • Time model & language:
    Full-time | English
  • Duration of study: 4 semesters | 120 ECTS
  • Optional Double Degree from the Partner Universities in France and in the USA
  • Electives in Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering
  • Prerequisites: Bachelor or equivalent degree in relevant studies or studies comprising a certain level of relevant ECTS points
  • Academic Degree: Master of Science in Engineering | MSc or M.Sc.
  • Tuition fee: EUR 363,36 / semester plus membership fee for the Austrian Students’ Union (ÖH) for EU and EEA citizens

Before studying Mechatronics – Smart Technologies

As a commencing student you may have many questions: What does the desired course of studies teach me? How do I apply? What are the requirements for admission to studying at MCI, and what is the application deadline? What are my career options after graduation? Below you will find all the answers and information you may need.

Overview

Person remote controlling a drone

In order to ensure a high level of practical relevance, the program not only includes lectures, but also laboratory activities, projects, and case studies. These allow students to put theoretically acquired knowledge into practice. They are consistently supervised by MCI lecturers as well as experienced international experts, forming part of the large MCI network.

Mechatronics graduates hold leading positions in international companies in the automotive industry, in special machine construction, in semiconductor engineering, and many more. The master's program in Mechatronics – Smart Technologies provides the necessary methodical skills in the fields of electrical engineering, mechatronics, computer science and smart technologies. Thereby, the future-oriented topics such as:

  • Control systems engineering
  • Drive systems
  • Power electronics
  • Multibody simulation
  • Electrodynamic simulation

are the focus of the program. In the Electronics and Mechanical Engineering electives, the latest innovations in these fields are further explored, e.g. by means of a transdisciplinary project.

Students in the master's program benefit from the opportunity to study at renowned universities in France, Spain or the USA, to specialize further and additionally to obtain a second degree (double degree).

The methodological competence taught enables students to gain a strong basis in a wide variety of business areas. Graduates of the master's program in Mechatronics – Smart Technologies are therefore in great demand on the job market. In addition to the latest technical know-how, the future engineers also learn essential skills in the areas of management and leadership, entrepreneurship and start-up foundation.

Contact
 Benjamin Massow, BSc MSc | Interim Head of Department & Studies Bachelor's program Mechatronics
Benjamin Massow, BSc MSc Interim Head of Department & Studies +43 512 2070 - 3938

If you have any questions about the study program, please contact us.

Consultanca situation between MCI staff and future student

Admission

Applications for admission are accepted on a rolling basis. The required documents are to be submitted online. Applicants are welcome to apply for multiple programs of study, as long as a plausible rationale is given. The final decision may be taken by the end of the application procedures.

 

Application
deadline

Interview
Date 1 Nov 12, 2023 Nov 20, 2023
Date 2 Feb 4, 2024 Feb 12, 2024
Date 3 Mar 31, 2024 Apr 8, 2024
Date 4 May 26, 2024 Jun 3, 2024

 

The Master program in Mechatronics & Smart Technologies is open to graduates of Bachelor and Diploma programs in the fields of engineering/engineering science or natural sciences whose curricula involve at least 75 relevant ECTS points. The decision on the acceptability of prior qualifications is taken by the Program Director.

This Master program is an ideal follow-on such Bachelor programs as Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering & Management, as well as Environmental Engineering, Process & Energy Engineering. Admission will also be considered for graduates of study programs whose curricula correspond to the prerequesites mentioned above in the field of Production Engineering, Automation Technology, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Construction Engineering and Electrical Engineering.

Recognition of previous qualifications in the master program:
Applications for recognition of examinations or credits obtained through other study programs or previous scientific experience must be submitted to the Program Director. A decision will only be taken in cases where the application for admission has met with a positive decision. Recognition of credits or previous experience is only granted for individual classes in the program.

In just two steps to your desired study program at MCI:

Step 1 – Online application: CV & motivation

A complete online application consists of a CV, a letter of motivation, information on educational background, qualifications, professional career, social achievements and academic as well as professional goals. We would like to know why you are applying to study at MCI.

You may apply for more than one degree program at the same time, provided you can conclusively explain your respective motivations in your letter of motivation.

Step 2 – Online admission interview

In the second step, all applicants will be invited to an online admission interview.

In this interview, we want to get to know you. We are particularly interested in your motivation to study at MCI as well as your professional and personal goals you want to achieve with the help of your studies.

Within three weeks after the admission interview, we will inform you about the admission decision.

Two students and a lecturer talking to each other in front of a whiteboard

While studying Mechatronics – Smart Technologies

MCI study programs stand out due to the quality of their content, relevance to the business world, and their international orientation. The close cooperation with partners from  industry and integrative internships enable students to gain practical experience as early as in their Bachelor’s studies. In addition to providing expert knowledge, MCI places great importance on encouraging personal development and the development of social and intercultural competencies.

Facts

Time model
Full-time | English
Academic year
Winter semester: October – January
Summer semester: March – June
Structure
1st - 3rd semesters: core program
4th semester: Master thesis
Tuition fees
For students from EU & EEA countries: EUR 363,36 / semester plus membership fee to the Austrian Student Union (ÖH). Details & information for students from third countries can be found at admission.

Module overview

Subject%
Core area Mechatronics 28%
Projects and technical case studies 13%
Electives 23%
Management & key competencies 6%
Master thesis & master seminar 30%

The Master program Mechatronics – Smart Technologies is a full-time degree program.

Full-time

In full-time studies, lectures and seminars are held on weekdays, with blocked units allowing for an intensive immersion into individual topics.
The classes usually take place from Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 12:15 and / or from 13:30 to 16:45. In exceptional cases, the times may vary and the lessons and / or examinations may take place outside the specified times or possibly on Saturdays.

The Master’s program sets itself apart from other programs in that it provides students with the option to obtain a double degree. Thus,they can gain advanced knowledge in their chosen area of specialization as well as a second internationally recognized degree. Renowned institutions in the United States, Sevilla or in France offer places for studies abroad.

Graduates of the program are conferred the academic title of Master of Science in Engineering, in short MSc or M.Sc. This is attested by a leaving certificate, the Master diploma, the international diploma supplement, and further documents where relevant. MCI Alumni are entitled to combine their academic degree with the brand “MCI” to provide trust and orientation in an increasingly intransparent international education market. Example: BSc (MCI).
Source: GZ BMWF-52.330/0195-I/6/2013

Elective Electrical Engineering

The course content focuses on the core competencies of mechatronics and control engineering, electro-mechanical simulation, robotics, and image processing. Complementary courses teach relevant skills in management, leadership, and process management. Students may choose from a range of specializations to become experts in machine dynamics, hydraulics, finite elements and the strengths of materials in mechanical engineering and electrodynamics, non-linear electronics, embedded computing, and electro-magnetic simulation in electronic engineering.

Curriculum

 1234
Higher Mathematics 3 | 4 3 | 4    
Control Engineering 3 | 4 2 | 3    
Sensors & Actuators 4 | 5      
Simulation & Optimization 2 | 3      
Robotics   4 | 6    
Computational Fluid Dynamics     2 | 3  
Process Management & Logistics     2 | 2  


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

 1234
Project 1   2 | 5    
Project 2      4 | 10  


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

 1234
Electrodynamics 4 | 6      
Measuring Methods 3 | 4      
Drive Systems   3 | 4    
Embedded Computing   3 | 4    
Simulation     5 | 7  
Industrial Electronics     2 | 3  


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

 1234
Strategic Management & Marketing 1 | 1 1 | 1    
Communication & Sales Techniques 1 | 1      
Innovation & Technology Management   1 | 1    
Business Planning     1 | 1  
Leadership Development     1 | 1  
Career Coaching       1 | 1


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

 1234
Current Research Areas 1 | 2 1 | 2 1 | 2  
Academic Writing     1 | 1  
Master Thesis & Seminar       2 | 29


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

Elective Mechanical Engineering

The course contenst focuses on modern aspects of mechanical engineering. This includes materials and their dynamic behavior on the one hand and the focus on mechatronics on the other.This is reflected in handling technology, higher mechanics,and hydraulics. Simulation methods in control engineering, structural dynamics and fluid mechanics are used as cross-sectional skills in all areas of mechanical engineering, preparing students to keep pace with developments in this innovative field.

Curriculum

 1234
Higher Mathematics 3 | 4 3 | 4    
Control Engineering 3 | 4 2 | 3    
Sensors & Actuators 4 | 5      
Simulation & Optimization 2 | 3      
Robotics   4 | 6    
Computational Fluid Dynamics     2 | 3  
Process Management & Logistics     2 | 2  


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

 1234
Project 1   2 | 5    
Project 2      4 | 10  


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

 1234
Higher Mechanics 3 | 4      
Material Sciences 4 | 6      
Hydraulics & Pneumatics   3 | 4    
Machine Dynamics   3 | 4    
Simulation     5 | 7  
Handling Technology     2 | 3  


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

 1234
Strategic Management & Marketing 1 | 1 1 | 1    
Communication & Sales Techniques 1 | 1      
Innovation & Technology Management   1 | 1    
Business Planning     1 | 1  
Leadership Development     1 | 1  
Career Coaching       1 | 1


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

 1234
Current Research Areas 1 | 2 1 | 2 1 | 2  
Academic Writing     1 | 1  
Master Thesis & Seminar       2 | 29


Semester Credit Units| ECTS-Credits

Studying abroad

One of the most essential components of MCI study programs is their international orientation. This is reflected not only in the curriculum and assigned projects, but also in the backgrounds of our faculty and students. Each program also includes the opportunity for students to spend a semester abroad at one of MCI’s many partner institutions.

Dr. Sabine Herlitschka, CEO Infineon Technologies, Villach

As one of the leading high-tech companies in Austria, Infineon Technologies Austria is, according to its growth strategy, always searching for high potentials. Due to the excellent problem solving skills of its alumni, especially in regard of interdisciplinarity, internationality and feasibilty, the MCI Mechatronics Master program is one of the most promising programs in Austria.

Dr. Sabine Herlitschka, CEO Infineon Technologies, Villach

Research & Development

At the Entrepreneurial School®, providing a consistent link between science and practice has top priority. Therefore, we provide our students plenty of opportunity to put their newly acquired knowledge to practice, even during their studies. The collaboration with companies and organizations of different sizes and sectors forms one of the cornerstones of the MCI concept. Such cooperative work does not only benefit our students, but also, ­to a large extent our partners.

  • Electronics & Data Analytics

Alongside traditional mechanical engineering, computer science and electrical engineering are the fundamental pillars of mechatronics. The research focus ‘Electronics & Data Analytics’ combines the fields of electronic development and data analysis. This cluster focuses on the development of hardware components - from idea generation to the creation of a functional prototype. At the same time, the area of data analytics is dedicated to the comprehensive processing and analysis of data. This area covers a broad spectrum, from data acquisition and pre-processing to detailed analyses and the visual presentation of results. The aim is to extract meaningful information from large volumes of data and use it to optimize processes, make decisions or develop new business models.

The strength of this focus lies in the synergistic connection of physical electronics and digital data processing. This combination enables innovative solutions that can be applied in industry and other sectors such as healthcare, environmental technology, and smart cities. Therefore, the approach is interdisciplinary and orientated towards real use cases in order to develop practical solutions that are both technologically advanced and socially relevant.

  • Fluids & Mechanics

The expertise developed in recent years in the fields of multiphase systems, structure dynamics and engine technology, have been pooled together in the research area “Fluids & Mechanics”. The unique strengths of MCI are the interdisciplinary approaches and varied comprehensive methods such as the experimental verification of simulations or the application of control engineering concepts in mechanical systems. Nonetheless, it is of prevailing importance to find the most appropriate solution for the respective challenge with regard to the general requirements.

  • Health Tech

Technology has become an intrinsic part of our lives and increasingly allows holistic, preventive and not least integrative solutions. The focus is on people themselves - not only in their role as patients or athletes. At the same time, the available technological and information technology options have developed rapidly and the acceptance of their use in medicine, health and sports is increasing.

The research focus Health Tech is dedicated to the challenge of combining innovative technologies with trends in medicine, health care, sports and related fields and to develop products and services from them in cooperation with partners from industry and research or to support their further development. The overriding goal is to maintain and/or restore people's health on the one hand, and to promote sport in society through the use of technology and help athletes in top-level sport to achieve first-class performance on the other.

  • Smart Production & Organization

Changing demands on companies as well as their engineering and production processes pose ever increasing challenges. The evaluation of existing production processes and the modernization of existing plants is the basis for future competitiveness. Targeted automation, the optimization of value-added processes, the continuous integration of existing employees and the use of data-based methods lead to a holistic view of engineering, production and organization.

Electronics & Data Analytics

Hardware Development
Data Acquisition
Data Evaluation

Fluids & Mechanics

Particle & Separation Technology
Equipment & Process Optimization of Dispersed Systems
Computational Engineering
Structure Dynamics
Engines & Emissions

Health Tech

Sports Technology
Robotics in Health
Medical Devices

SMART PRODUCTION & ORGANIZATION

Automation & Robotics
Production Planning, Optimization & Simulation
Employee-Centric Production & Organizational Transformation
Data-Based Methods in Engineering & Production

After studying Mechatronics – Smart Technologies

Studying at MCI is an investment in a successful future. Through close cooperation with industry and the practical orientation of all courses, MCI graduates are in particularly high demand on the job market and have several job offers even before graduation.

Professional Opportunities

Elective Electrical Engineering

  • Research, development
  • Simulation, calculations
  • Project and design engineering
  • Production planning & monitoring
  • Plant control & monitoring
  • Quality assurance, maintenance and servicing
  • Sales & applications consulting
  • Middle Management, Leading Positions

Professional Opportunities

Elective Mechanical Engineering

  • Research, development
  • Simulation, calculations
  • Project and design engineering
  • Production planning & monitoring
  • Plant control & monitoring
  • Quality assurance, maintenance and servicing
  • Sales & applications consulting
  • Middle Management, Leading Positions

MCI Alumni & Friends

MCI Alumni & Friends provides a dynamic service platform promoting contacts, image, professional careers, and personal development of MCI and its graduates. We are delighted with all the graduates who choose to stay in touch even long after completion of their studies, and allowing us to be a part of their various careers:

Success Stories

This could also be interesting for you

A number of applicants interested in this degree program have also expressed interest in the following master's program.

It is possible to apply for more than one degree program at the same time if you present your motives in a meaningful explanation.

Questions and answers

Yes, it is possible and it is even recommended that you apply before obtaining your Bachelor’s Degree certificate in order to secure one of the limited places in your desired course of study. Please include the most recent transcript of records in your application. Should your application be successful, the Bachelor’s certificate is to be submitted by the start of your studies.

Multiple applications are welcome as long as a plausible reason is provided in your cover letter. If you are admitted to two or more study programs, you are required to inform us of your final decision by the conclusion of the application procedures.

Since the admission interviews take place online, participation is also possible from abroad.

For citizens of the following countries, the tuition fee is 363 euros per semester plus a fee for compulsory membership to the Austrian National Union of Students:

  • EU citizens,
  • EEA and Swiss citizens, and
  • non-EU citizens who, according to § 2 of the University of Applied Sciences Studies Act, are subject to § 1 of the Regulation on Eligible Groups of Persons (see Federal Law Gazette II No. 340/2013, in its current version).

For students of non-EU countries not considered eligible according to above regulations, the tuition fee is as follows:

  • Bachelor’s courses: 6,250 euros / semester plus compulsory Austrian National Union of Students membership fee
  • Master’s courses: 6,250 euros / semester plus compulsory Austrian National Union of Students membership fee

Your application documents regarding nationality will be assessed in detail as part of your admission procedure. Scholarships are available for applicants from non-EU countries and can be applied for as part of your online application.

Students of this study program have the choice within their curriculum, but also as part of their extracurricular activities, to choose between modules, specializations, additional courses, electives, etc. Additionally, the semester abroad at one of our numerous partner universities as well as projects and final papers, enable our students to make their study program a truly unique experience.    

Lectures and seminars in full-time courses are held on weekdays. To facilitate a more intense discussion of individual topics, some lessons may also be organized in blocks.

Attendance is mandatory in all classes. If you miss 25% of a course or more, this will have an effect on your final grade.

Exemption from mandatory attendance may be granted if a valid reason is given (e.g. sickness, visit to authorities or other personal reasons). Please submit your written request including relevant proof to the department for approval.