Architecture Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt

The language of instruction in the first four semesters (basic studies) is English. During these first four semesters you can take voluntary German classes. After the basic studies, you need to have acquired German language skills at level B2. The courses in the main studies from the fifth semester onwards will mostly be held in German.

Bachelor of Architecture – Designing for a Sustainable Future

Architecture is more than just designing buildings – it's about shaping the spaces in which society lives, works, and thrives. Architects carry the responsibility of creating environments that are not only functional and aesthetic but also sustainable, resilient, and socially meaningful.

In a time when the built environment accounts for a major share of global CO₂ emissions, the role of the architect becomes a decisive one. Rethinking how we build – from materials and methods to energy and urban integration – is no longer optional. It’s essential.

At Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt (THI), we educate architects who understand the interplay of form and function, material and climate, technology and culture. You’ll work at the intersection of creativity and engineering, gaining insight into both traditional craftsmanship and innovative, digital design tools. The goal: to equip you with the mindset and skills to design architecture that is sustainable, adaptive, and future-ready.

Our new Bachelor’s programme in Architecture at the THI Campus in Neuburg an der Donau combines a solid foundation in design and construction with a strong focus on sustainability, building culture, and digital methods. Whether you dream of reimagining urban spaces, designing energy-efficient homes, or shaping public infrastructure – your journey starts here.

Curious? Motivated? Ready to make an impact? Join us – and help design the future we all want to live in.

1. Apply via uni-assist by 1 October for the following summer semester at the latest. (For applicants with a Bachelor's degree from outside of Germany, uni-assist has to verify your eligibility to study in Germany and to convert your grades to the German grade system. You will have to submit all required documents to uni-assist online. The process may take six weeks.)

2. PRIMUSS – THI application portal: Apply from 15 November until 15 January for the following summer semester (only online). In case of admission, you may be asked to send all required documents by mail later on.

Since winter semester 2024/25, THI charges fees of currently 500 EUR per semester for students from third countries (citizenship outside the EU and European Economic Area).

The fees are planned to increase to 800 EUR per semester (Bachelor's programmes) from summer semester 2026 onwards. When more details are available, you will find further information on our homepage.

THI students who started their studies earlier are not affected by this reform.

Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt does not cooperate with recruitment agencies. Applicants will have to apply on their own. Apart from the uni-assist fee, there is no application fee.

To stay updated on the most recent study orientation dates, please visit www.thi.de/go/events-studyorientation.

Course Structure – Designing the Future, Step by Step

Foundation Phase (semesters one through three):

In the first part of your studies, you will build a strong foundation in architecture through a balanced mix of core design and technical subjects. These include Architectural Design Basics, Representation & Drawing, Structural Design Fundamentals, and Building Physics, with topics such as lighting simulation and thermal analysis. You will also explore History of Architecture to understand how past solutions can inspire future thinking.

Parallel to your academic courses, you will develop your German language skills up to level B2. This enables you to engage confidently with the professional world in German-speaking contexts – both during your studies and in your future career.

Project & Application Phase (semesters four through nine):

The second phase of your studies builds on your foundational knowledge and is delivered in German or English, reflecting the international and interdisciplinary nature of contemporary architecture.

You will work on a wide range of project-based modules – from sustainable architecture and urban planning to digital design and construction. The focus lies on practical application, teamwork, and creativity:

•     Sustainable design projects
•     Urban development concepts
•     Smart and digital construction methods
•     Innovation in building materials and systems

Internship (semester six):

A compulsory internship in the sixth semester allows you to apply your knowledge in a professional setting, gain valuable hands-on experience, and develop a deeper understanding of how architecture is practised in the real world. This phase will help you transition smoothly into the final phase of your studies.

Final Phase:

In the concluding semester(s), you will complete your studies with advanced elective courses that allow you to deepen your personal interests – whether in sustainable housing, computational design, or cultural heritage. You’ll finish with a Bachelor’s thesis that showcases your individual strengths as a future architect. Upon successful completion, you will be awarded the degree Bachelor of Engineering (BEng).

An internship is required in the second section (semester six).

800 EUR

Since winter semester 2024/25, THI charges fees of currently 500 EUR per semester for students from third countries (citizenship outside the EU and European Economic Area).

The fees are planned to increase to 800 EUR per semester (Bachelor's programmes) from summer semester 2026 onwards. When more details are available, you will find further information on our homepage.

THI students who started their studies earlier are not affected by this reform.

All students will have to pay a student union fee of 72 EUR per semester.

Student organisations estimate that the cost of living is approx. 990 EUR or more per month, depending on individual needs and expectations. Mandatory health insurance in Germany will cost a student around 145 EUR per month.

Usually, non-EU students will have to provide proof of financial means with a blocked account for visa purposes. It should contain approximately 992 EUR per month for up to 12 months.

https://www.thi.de/en/faculties/sustainable-infrastructure/degree-programmes/architecture-beng/

The Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt can only make a legally binding decision about your eligibility for your desired study programme after reviewing the documents you submit with your application. We can’t provide a definitive assessment or evaluate your chances of acceptance until we have your full application, including your educational history.

Furthermore, it is possible to find out if you’re qualified to study in Germany before applying. Detailed information is available at the following link: www.uni-assist.de/en/tools/check-university-admission.

Additionally, you can find out about the qualification requirements via the study and examination regulations (=Studien- und Prüfungsordnung = SPO). Find these on the following page under the respective statutes: https://www.thi.de/en/university/university-profile/university-management/legal-department/.

Thank you for your understanding. You are very welcome to apply, and we will check your application documents.

English: proof of at least level B2

German: proof of at least level A2 at the end of second semester and proof of at least B2 at the end of fifth semester

1. Apply via uni-assist by 1 October for the following summer semester at the latest. (For applicants with a Bachelor's degree from outside of Germany, uni-assist has to verify your eligibility to study in Germany and to convert your grades to the German grade system. You will have to submit all required documents to uni-assist online. The process may take six weeks.)

2. PRIMUSS – THI application portal: Apply from 15 November until 15 January for the following summer semester (only online). In case of admission, you may be asked to send all required documents by mail later on.

There are different scholarships available to enrolled students, such as the Deutschlandstipendium. All students will have to look and apply for specific scholarships by themselves! Most scholarship programmes are based on performance (grades, voluntary work, etc.). The economic situation of applicants is usually not taken into consideration. A certain level of German language skills (at least B2) is required for many scholarships.

The International Office also offers scholarships. Enrolled international students will be notified of the call once a year via the communication channels of the university.

International students at THI are strongly advised to start gaining practical experience early to earn money during their studies and improve their job prospects. Besides looking for working student positions, students are also encouraged to seek low-level jobs in gastronomy or similar sectors to earn money and improve their German language skills. In addition to internship positions posted on the university platform, students should actively consider research and teaching assistant roles at THI. Please note that international students face legal limits on the number of working days allowed (see Study and work).

The International Welcome Center offers workshops and events in English to help international students prepare for their entry into the German market, especially in preparing for the internship search and applications.

Important: German employers expect students to take the initiative in applying for jobs and to have a good command of German. For internships, a minimum German language level of B1/B2 is required, while for entry-level jobs after graduation, B2/C1 is generally expected. Therefore, international students should start learning German as early as possible to increase their employability.

Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt does not run any student residence halls / dorms. You will have to start looking for accommodation on your own as soon as possible. At least 500 EUR per month should be budgeted for accommodation.

Here are some facts about finding accommodation in Ingolstadt or Neuburg.

• Service Point and individual consulting
• German courses at the language centre and language support programmes
• Mentoring programme
• Orientation days and networking events
• Workshops to prepare for the German job market
• Cultural events, excursions and company tours
• Online info session for admitted degree-seekers
• Support with city registration and residence permit
• Student clubs, such as N.I.C.E. (Network & International Culture Exchange)

Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt (THI) is an institution that specialises in business and technology and is characterised by innovative study concepts and modern facilities. We are currently training over 8,000 students in more than 70 study programmes in engineering, computer science, business, life sciences and sustainability.
Our students will graduate as sought-after specialists and managers. An extremely dynamic and successful region with a distinctly strong economic structure provides for excellent framework conditions. The relatively small student body guarantees individual guidance, a familial atmosphere, and close cooperation between students and professors.
One of the core features of studying at our university is its orientation towards practical application. Internships and projects, as well as continuous cooperation with regional companies, are fundamental components of every study programme.
The Ingolstadt campus was completed in 1999, and a new tract of buildings opened in 2014. In 2021, the Neuburg campus opened its doors with its Faculty of Sustainable Infrastructure. Modern equipment and facilities create an atmosphere that adds to students' success and enjoyment. Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt is proud of its commitment to offer the highest possible level of quality in research and education. It is possible to explore Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt by visiting the interactive 360° THI campus tour.

The campus is only a short walk from Ingolstadt's appealing old city. The view from the lecture halls is of a castle and other medieval buildings. Ingolstadt lies in the centre of Bavaria, one of the most prosperous German federal states, and it is only an hour by car from the metropolitan areas of Munich and Nuremberg. The opportunities to take part in leisure activities in the area – which is close to the Alps as well as to the beautiful Altmühl valley – are unlimited. With the headquarters of Audi (the international automotive company) and a large number of innovative corporations in the city, Ingolstadt is proud to be one of the strongest economic regions in Germany. Opportunities to participate in sports activities are provided by the university as well as by various amateur and competitive sports clubs. Bavarian charm and the Bavarian way of life – including summer evenings in beer gardens and the diverse cultural events on offer – make daily life in Ingolstadt particularly attractive for students.