Geothermal Energy Systems Bochum University of Applied Sciences

Courses are held in English. Only two supplementary mathematics modules that are held in German can also be attended if students are interested and have sufficient knowledge of German. Participants can choose to write the Master's thesis either in English or in German language.

The programme is aimed at alumnus/alumna of Bachelor's degree programmes in engineering or geosciences who wish to deepen their knowledge of renewable energy systems and pursue an international career in the energy industry or research.

Through practical project work, laboratory exercises, and research collaborations – in particular with the Fraunhofer Institute for Energy Infrastructure and Geothermal Energy (IEG) – students acquire application-oriented skills that prepare them specifically for the challenges of the global energy market.

In the Master's degree programme in Geothermal Energy Systems, you will deepen your knowledge of the scientific, technical, and economic fundamentals of geothermal energy production.

The content focuses on:

• Reservoir Engineering & Hydrogeology – Examination of the thermal, hydraulic, and mechanical processes in the reservoir, reservoir evaluation, and optimisation
• Drilling and plant technology – Planning and operation of geothermal wells, power plants, heating systems, and heat storage facilities
• Geochemistry and geophysics – Analysis of rock and fluid processes, geophysical exploration, and data interpretation
• Numerical modelling & simulation – Use of modern tools such as FEFLOW or Modelica for reservoir and system analysis
• Energy and environmental policy – Evaluation of the economic, ecological, and regulatory framework conditions of sustainable energy systems

There is a special focus on interdisciplinary project work and the practical application of scientific methods.

Thanks to the international orientation of the degree programme, students also acquire important communication and teamwork skills in intercultural environments.

Non-EU applicants:

• 15 December for the following summer semester
• 15 June for the following winter semester

EU applicants:

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

No tuition fees

Students have to pay a social contribution fee of approx. 360 EUR per semester, which includes a semester ticket for unlimited use of public transportation in Germany ("Deutschlandticket").

A minimum of 950 EUR per month is required to cover living expenses such as accommodation, food, health insurance, and personal needs. Living costs in Bochum are moderate compared to larger German cities, and student housing options are available at reasonable rates.

The prerequisite for admission to the Master's programme in Geothermal Energy Systems is a qualifying degree (Bachelor's or Dipl-Ing degree) from a minimum seven semester (210 credit points) engineering or natural sciences programme with an energy focus, or a minimum seven semester (210 credit points) geosciences programme with a focus on geology, hydrogeology, geophysics, geomechanics, georesources or geothermal energy at a state or state-recognised university with:

• an overall grade of 2.5 (up to 2.59) or better
• an ECTS grade of B or better, or
• an overall grade worse than 2.5 but better than 3.0 (meaning 2.6 to 2.9), if a meaningful assessment of suitability for the Master's programme in Geothermal Energy Systems is submitted. The assessment must have been prepared by a university lecturer who taught the applicant in their first professionally qualifying degree. The examination board decides on the recognition of the assessment and admission to the programme.

Graduates of a Bachelor's programme equivalent to 180 credit points are admitted to the Master's programme with the requirement that they must acquire additional alignment credits (usually 30 credit points) before registering for their Master's thesis.

The decision on the academic comparability of degree programmes is made by the chair of the examination board. The chair of the examination board also determines whether students have to make up for any prerequisites as well as which prerequisites these applicants may have to make up for.

Applicants must provide evidence of the English language skills required for the programme at level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Non-EU applicants:

• 15 December for the following summer semester
• 15 June for the following winter semester

EU applicants:

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

The university offers scholarships for international students who are close to completing their studies, face financial hardship, or need to overcome special social challenges. In addition, the Central Student Advisory Service provides guidance on various scholarship opportunities offered by external foundations and organisations throughout Germany.

International students in Germany are allowed to work part-time during their studies. Non-EU students may work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year, or up to 20 hours per week during the semester. Exceeding this limit may require additional insurance contributions.

At Bochum University of Applied Sciences, students can work as student assistant in various departments and research projects. The university also regularly informs students about external job offers, such as working student positions ("Werkstudentenstellen") in local companies in the Ruhr area.

Finding accommodation in Bochum can take time, especially at the beginning of the semester, so it is recommended to start early. The university provides information and links on its website about student halls, shared flats (Wohngemeinschaften), and private rental options. The International Office also advises on local housing, rental contracts, and tenancy rules. While housing cannot be guaranteed, early planning and proactive research help students secure affordable and convenient accommodation.

The university’s Career Service provides individual consultations to support students in planning their professional careers. In addition, it offers workshops on topics such as CV writing, job search strategies, and application processes. Regular events, including career fairs and networking opportunities, help students connect with potential employers and gain insight into the job market.

The International Office provides comprehensive support to international students and doctoral candidates, offering guidance on a wide range of topics such as visa applications, health insurance, and living in Bochum. It regularly organises activities for international students and offers intercultural training each semester. In addition, the office provides preparatory online sessions on topics such as visas or finding accommodation. It also advises on leisure activities and student life, and if a query cannot be answered directly, the International Office assists in identifying the appropriate contact person or resource to ensure timely and accurate support.

The university's education centre, the BO Academy, offers all enrolled students semester-accompanying German and English language courses at various levels.

Bochum University of Applied Sciences – Applied Engineering for a Sustainable Future

Bochum University of Applied Sciences is a modern university with strong roots in engineering, technology, and applied research. Its teaching combines scientific depth with practical relevance, preparing students to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing, technology-driven world.

Engineering and sustainability are at the core of many study programmes, supported by modern laboratories, interdisciplinary collaboration, and close cooperation with regional and international industry partners.

With almost 10,000 students across three campuses, the university offers a personal learning environment, an excellent student-to-staff ratio, and strong links between research, teaching, and application.

Bochum University of Applied Sciences stands for forward-looking education — shaping engineers who are ready to contribute to a sustainable and innovative future.

Discover Bochum – The Heart of the Ruhr Metropolis

Bochum is a vibrant, welcoming city in the heart of Germany’s Ruhr region – a place where tradition meets innovation. Once famous for coal and steel, Bochum has transformed into a dynamic centre for education, research, and culture. Today, it’s home to one of Germany’s highest densities of universities and research institutions, including Bochum University of Applied Sciences.

The city offers everything students need to feel at home: affordable living, green parks, lively neighbourhoods, and a rich cultural scene. Whether you enjoy live music, theatre, or festivals, Bochum delivers – from the famous Starlight Express musical to cosy pubs and modern art galleries.

With excellent public transport, quick access to major cities like Düsseldorf and Cologne, and a friendly, open-minded community, Bochum is an ideal place for international students to study, explore, and grow.

Come to Bochum – experience a city with an industrial soul and an academic heart.