Mechanical Engineering - Cooperative Study (BEng)

Programme content

The cooperative study programme is a training path that combines vocational training and academic study. Here, theory and practice are combined in a way that is not possible during a regular programme of study. The overall duration of the cooperative study programme is nine semesters. During the first and second semester, students complete the first part of their practical vocational training in a company. Study at the University begins with the third semester (and lasts from the third to the ninth semester), whereby the practical semester and the bachelor thesis are completed back at the company. In terms of their content and structure, the seven semesters of study of the cooperative bachelor's degree programme correspond precisely to the first to seventh semester of the regular bachelor's degree programme Mechanical Engineering (BEng).

Students first learn the fundamental mathematical and physical knowledge required for their subject. Alongside the basic course of study, students learn about computer science and are taught the important fundamentals of engineering. They then select a direction on which to focus, and can choose between mechatronics and product development. They are also taught specialist knowledge relating to thermodynamics, pneumatics and hydraulics. Subjects such as method training and extracurricular studies round off the programme and help expand students’ horizon beyond their own subject.

Sustainability during studies: “Blaue Schiene”

The challenge that engineers face is to find innovative solutions for future problem areas. The "Blaue Schiene" is a module in which aspects of sustainability are taught. From the second semester onwards, teaching events are offered during different semesters with topics ranging from renewable energies, e-mobility and energy harvesting to energy management in IT systems and sustainable product development.

Practical orientation

A key element of an engineering degree programme at the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences is applying what is learned in practice and using a solution-oriented approach:

• for example in practical laboratory work, in which physical principles are tested and materials are studied
• during the three project weeks during every semester, which each take place in alternation with four lecture weeks, and which offer an opportunity of working through projects in small teams (Four-One-Model).
• during a practical seminar in Germany or abroad, when students gain their first work experience as engineers in training
• when writing your thesis, which can be completed in cooperation with businesses or research institutes

Perspectives

The close links to the employer where the corporate training takes place mean that students have excellent opportunities for progressing in their career in this company. The training contract guarantees an income right from the start, and therefore also financial independence.

Mechanical engineering is one of the largest industrial branches in Germany, and is among those with the highest turnover. From the car industry to the energy sector and plant construction, mechanical engineering forms the basis for success for many sectors and for the German national economy overall. Mechanical engineers are also in demand in the field of renewable energies, for example, for the construction of photovoltaic systems, or wind turbines and hydropower plants.

The Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences offers two suitable master programmes that build on the bachelor programme: Electrical Engineering (MEng) focusing on electronic system development, and Mechanical Engineering (MEng) focusing on mechatronics or virtual product development.