Engineering for Sustainability, BSc Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences

Courses are held entirely in English.

Learn how engineers can solve the challenges of climate change and resource scarcity. The study programme Engineering for Sustainability gives you the tools to think and act sustainably – with technology that makes an impact!

In this study programme, we focus entirely on project-based learning. You will start with several small projects in the first semester to get to know this special form of learning and studying, and you will be closely supported by your mentor. Our focus is on mechanical engineering, but always with sustainability in mind.

You won't find traditional lectures and seminars. Instead, we focus on the individual selection of learning paths and support you in building on your strengths and developing further skills. You will spend your time both in teams in our laboratories, so that you can apply your theoretical knowledge directly in practice, and in self-study, so that you can really delve into topics.

Over the course of your studies, the projects will become more complex and challenging. You can choose for yourself which specialist skills you would like to acquire and thus become either an expert in one field or a generalist.

All applicants:

• 15 July for the following winter semester
• 15 January for the following summer semester

This study programme is different in that it does not offer any traditional lectures; rather, it works closely with the local industry and focuses on competences. Students learn in teams and with projects after an orientation semester. Due to its special project structure, this degree course also has some requirements for students: They have to be on campus at least three days a week during the semester.

The sixth semester is dedicated to gathering practical work experience at a company or organisation in the biomaterials field. The seventh and last semester is for writing the thesis. In this semester, we also attach great importance to practical relevance and support collaborative theses with the private sector. Furthermore, necessary skills for writing a thesis are provided in intense block courses during the seventh semester. The study programme concludes with an oral presentation on the research findings in the thesis.

PDF Download

In the sixth semester, students can either spend a semester abroad or complete an internship (in Germany or abroad). We provide support in selecting partner universities and institutions as well as in raising funds.

No tuition fees

Enrolment fees amount to approximately 300 EUR per semester. This covers nominal administrative fees and a public transport ticket valid for the entire federal republic of Germany.

The average cost of living for students in Germany is around 1,150 EUR per month. This includes rent, utilities, personal expenses, and general expenses (https://www.study-in-germany.de/en/plan-your-stay/money-and-costs/cost-of-living_28220.php).

Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences welcomes applications from nationals of all countries.

Please see our website for general admission requirements: https://www.hochschule-rhein-waal.de/en/academics/prospective-students/current-application-period/bachelors-programmes.

Please note that English language skills at level B2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference are required for our Bachelor's degree programmes. Please be aware that all applicants' test report form numbers will be checked. The following certificates are accepted:

• IELTS: level CEFR B2 or better
• TOEFL: level CEFR B2 or better

The TOEFL code of our university: 6962

All applicants:

• 15 July for the following winter semester
• 15 January for the following summer semester

The university offers a limited number of merit-based scholarships ("Deutschlandstipendium") to both current students and students who are soon to be enrolled with excellent marks. This scholarship consists of a monthly stipend of 300 EUR and applies to international students as well. Further information is available on our website: https://www.hochschule-rhein-waal.de/en/academics/students/costs-scholarships-and-grants/scholarships-and-financial-aid.

Non-EU students can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year without requiring an additional visa. Student jobs within the university can be solely in English, but the vast majority of off-campus jobs will require at least basic proficiency in German. German courses are available for students through our International Center.

First-year students are strongly advised to focus primarily on their studies and to begin learning German. This will open up many more part-time job opportunities in later semesters.

Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences strongly urges you to arrange your accommodation before arrival. One option is accommodation at the residence halls run by student services ("Studierendenwerk Düsseldorf") with one-, two- or three-room flats and rent starting around 290 EUR per month (with a security deposit equivalent to three months' rent). Availability is limited, so register online as soon as possible. See our website for details.

Most students live in private flats shared with other students. There are a number of popular online portals for finding a flat in Germany. Contact the Welcome Centre for more information or look into social media platforms because some students might be graduating when you plan to start. Additionally, the Welcome Centre is always ready to offer advice or help with conversations or correspondence in German.

Internship, student job or first steps in a new career – Rhine-Waal’s Career Service is here to help with a broad range of useful services.

Correspondingly, we act as bridge builders between students and fresh graduates, the university and companies or organisations from industry, science, social sectors etc. Our overall goal is to "help others to help themselves" by supporting capacity development in students and fresh graduates with respect to their individual career paths.

Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, with two campus locations in Kleve and Kamp-Lintfort and around 6,500 students, is an innovative, interdisciplinary, and international university of applied sciences. The university currently offers over 30 undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes in engineering, the natural and social sciences, technology, design, and more. Our programmes are geared towards your employability, addressing current and future needs of industry by giving you valuable expertise and experience in your field of study. We are unique in that some 75% of our programmes are taught exclusively in English, resulting in a vibrant campus culture and a rich, intercultural exchange of ideas, experience, and knowledge.

Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences prides itself on top-notch teaching, excellent research, and a strong network of international partnerships with research institutions and industry. Our team of professors bring a fresh, dynamic approach to teaching and continuously support, encourage, guide, and inspire students. Professors are often on a first-name basis with their students. Teaching takes place in a range of cutting edge facilities, laboratories, work spaces, smart classrooms, and auditoriums.

The result is a memorable and valuable university experience, which will help you grow as a person and set you on the path to your chosen career. We look forward to welcoming you!

Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences is centrally and conveniently located on the Lower Rhine between the Netherlands and the Rhine-Ruhr metropolis.

Kleve, where our main campus is located, is a city rich in tradition and history, and it has approximately 50,000 residents. It offers the best of both worlds: the bustle and excitement of nearby cities like Nijmegen, Düsseldorf, and Cologne with the safety, comfort, and ambience of a smaller town. The flat landscapes, mild climate, and good infrastructure of the Lower Rhine make it ideal for getting around by bicycle. Noteworthy sights include the Swan Castle, Baroque-style botanical gardens, museums, and art galleries. The town is home to large department stores and smaller boutiques, pubs, cafés, and more. Students can also participate in a range of sports offered both by the university and local clubs.

Kamp-Lintfort, our campus for the Faculty of Communication and Environment, has a current population of around 39,000 and is located 60 km (37 miles) south of Kleve. Kamp-Lintfort takes its name from a nearly 900-year-old monastery, maintained in its original style to this day. The city's proximity to the Rhine-Ruhr metropolis made it an integral part of post-WWII coal production in Germany. In recent years, Kamp-Lintfort has redefined itself as a hub of technology, innovation, and higher education. The Kamp-Lintfort campus is centrally and conveniently located in the centre of town. In addition to its historical sights, Kamp-Lintfort offers a welcoming and safe atmosphere for students with numerous shops, pubs, cafés, and sports.