Study programme
SENCE begins with two full-time study semesters. These two semesters can be taken independently of one another, which makes it possible to start the program in either the winter or summer semester.
In general, all courses are structured in larger full-day or half-day blocks rather than weekly or biweekly sessions. The winter semester places a thematic focus on thermodynamic topics: in addition to a foundational lecture on thermodynamics, this includes technologies of thermal renewable energy applications. Economic and legal specializations are also part of the curriculum. The winter semester takes place predominantly at Hochschule Rottenburg; however, we aim to minimize the number of trips between campuses and avoid switching locations within a single day or ideally within the same week.
The summer semester, by contrast, focuses on electrical engineering and non thermal renewable technologies such as wind or hydropower, as well as modeling and the development of leadership and key competencies. The summer semester is held primarily at HFT Stuttgart.
The third semester consists of two project assignments in which students work on scientifically relevant questions within research groups at the two universities, at (inter)national research institutes, or in cooperation with energy suppliers, engineering firms, or public administration. Both projects may be completed at the same institution or partner organization, but each must constitute an independent piece of work.
The program concludes in the fourth semester with the master’s thesis, which—similar to the third semester—can be completed in cooperation with companies or within a research environment.
Winter Semester – depending on start date, 1st or 2nd semester
The winter semester provides an in depth understanding of thermodynamics and renewable energy technologies based on thermodynamic processes. It also strengthens students’ skills in independent scientific work and conveys fundamental knowledge of energy economics. Courses take place predominantly in Rottenburg.
The winter semester comprises four modules:
- Renewable Energy Systems and Their Resource and Climate Relevance
- Research Methodology and Scientific Practice
- General Energy Science and Energy Conversion Technologies
- Integrated Building Systems and Renewable Energy Systems
Summer Semester – depending on start date, 1st or 2nd semester
The summer semester provides advanced knowledge in electrical engineering and mathematical modeling, as well as fundamentals of entrepreneurial practice. It is held primarily at HFT Stuttgart.
The four modules are:
- Mathematical and Scientific Modeling
- Renewable Energy Conversion Technologies – Electrical
- Electrical Engineering, Energy Systems, and Storage Infrastructure
- Entrepreneurship and Management
3rd Semester – Project Semester
The third semester is dedicated to project work. Each student completes two independent projects, which may be carried out at the same institution but do not have to be.
Project topics are offered both by the two SENCE universities and by companies in the private sector. Students may also pursue their own project ideas, provided they meet the academic depth and thematic alignment required for SENCE.
As in the bachelor’s thesis, the methodology and core results are documented in a scientific report and presented to fellow students in a status seminar.
- Examples of completed projects
4th Semester – Master’s Thesis
The fourth semester is dedicated to the master’s thesis. It may be completed at one of the participating universities or in cooperation with external partners. The academic requirements are stricter than those for the project assignments in the third semester. Project assistants support students in acquiring and carrying out thesis projects.
The methodology and results are documented in a written thesis and presented to fellow students and supervisors.