Materials scientists often need to find original and imaginative solutions to develop new materials and technologies. It is therefore helpful to have a creative mindset and to look at problems from different angles.

The issues facing materials science are becoming increasingly complex. Keeping an overview to understand, analyze and organize the problems is very helpful.

The topics to be addressed are always highly topical. They come both from industry in the form of new products, for example, but also from society, which demands a clean environment. Therefore it is important to keep up to date and to deal with the problems of the time.

Experiences with material science can be found in many school subjects:

• Chemistry deals with the properties, structures, and reactions of substances, which provides a basic understanding of materials science. You should have covered topics in chemistry such as atomic structure, the periodic table of elements, chemical bonding, reaction mechanisms, and materials synthesis.
• Physics deals with the fundamental laws and principles of nature. In terms of materials science, you should have covered physical concepts such as solid state physics, electromagnetism, heat transfer, optics, and mechanical behavior of materials.
• Mathematics is the language of all science and engineering. Mathematical concepts such as algebra, geometry, differential and integral calculus should be known to build models, analyze data and describe complex relationships.
• Biology comes into play in areas such as biomaterials and biological matter. Knowledge of biological materials, such as bone or cell structures, and biological concepts and principles can be helpful.
• Practical applications of materials science in the form of materials processing, manufacturing techniques, materials testing, or design aspects may be familiar from technology or engineering classes.

Very advantageous for the studies in general are:

• Interest in technical and scientific contexts
• Ability to work in a team, strong communication skills and willingness to share knowledge
• Ability to think analytically, to work in a concentrated manner and to quickly penetrate complex contexts
• Knowledge of English and basic knowledge of at least one programming language

Since the degree programs are not subject to admission restrictions, you can therefore study with us if you can present a university entrance qualification, e.g. in the form of a passed Abitur.

Due to the digitalization of teaching, it is very important that you start your studies with adequate technical equipment.

You will need at least:

• a reliable internet connection at your place of residence during your studies,
• a terminal device with a large screen (HD), ideally a laptop,
• a webcam and a microphone (if not built-in).

The device should be equipped with an operating system that you already know well. Some important programs or program packages can be obtained cheaper or even free of charge if you are already enrolled.