Mobile Robotics University of Bonn

Courses are held in English (100%).

In the programme, students learn the foundations to develop intelligent robots that can understand and model their surroundings, navigate the world, and act smartly. The study programme is strongly research-oriented and aims at educating the newest generation of top talents in robotics. It focuses on probabilistic and learning techniques enabling mobile robots to operate reliably in the real world, tackling perception, state estimation, modelling, action generation, planning, manipulation, and interaction with the world.

The programme will teach students methods for robot perception, modelling, action generation, planning, and interaction with the world to act smartly and autonomously. It will combine competencies from engineering and computer science to build such systems and solve relevant problems of our society today – from sustainable technology and agricultural robotics to service robotic applications and autonomous vehicles.

The programme links the engineering and computer science side of robotics with relevant societal applications, such as agricultural robotics and other fields such as autonomous cars. A key element is that such relevant applications operate at a high of excellence (supported, e.g. through PhenoRob). Furthermore, it tackles mobile systems, robots, and other vehicles that navigate and act autonomously without humans in the loop.

Current application deadlines for the following winter semester:

• Non-EU applicants: 31 May
• EU applicants: 15 August

For further information on specific application deadlines, please visit our website.

The Mobile Robotics programme is extended over 24 months and is structured into mandatory and elective modules, including teaching units with a duration of one semester. Each module is completed with an exam. Three different types of modules are offered: lectures, seminars, and projects. The basis of evaluation is credit points (CP).

The curriculum of the Mobile Robotics MSc programme is structured as follows:

• The modules of the first semester cover the basic knowledge required for the remaining programme. Lectures and exercises cover the following topics: Robot Planning and Control, GNSS, Inertial Navigation Systems, Python and Computer Vision, Graph SLAM, 3D Mapping and Machine Learning.
• In the second and third semester the students choose elective modules from the fields of geodesy and computer science. This gives the students a broad overview about the subject. It is also possible to choose a course from the university-wide offer with six credit points. Two project modules introduce the students to current research topics and train them to be able to do self-sufficient research. These topics are meant to be preparation for the Master's thesis.
• The last study semester is devoted to the Master's thesis.

No tuition fees

The University of Bonn is a public university and therefore does not charge tuition fees. However, all students must pay the so-called social contribution (semester fee) of about 330 EUR per semester. It includes, among other things, a student transit pass for public transport and statutory accident insurance.

The cost of living for students in Bonn is around 800 EUR to 1,000 EUR, with apartment rent accounting for the largest share.

The Mobile Robotics study programme addresses highly motivated students with an excellent Bachelor’s degree in computer science, geodesy, or related subjects such as electrical engineering, applied mathematics, or similar. Students are expected to have a background in mathematics, programming (e.g. Python), and basic engineering skills.

In detail applicants must fulfil the following requirements according to § 5 of the Examination Regulations of the Master's Programme Mobile Robotics.

The university degree must have been completed with a grade of at least 2.5 (minimum grade is subject to change). The grade is calculated using the modified Bavarian formula during the application process.

In detail, students must submit proof of the following:

1. a total of at least 18 credits from mathematics
2. a total of at least 6 credits from programming
3. Additional achievements from at least one of the subject areas
   1. mathematics
   2. programming
   3. engineering sciences
   4. physics
   5. computer science or
   6. geodesy
      Students must achieve in total at least 26 credits from the areas 3.1 - 3.6.
4. An academic thesis worth at least 10 credits.

Before you apply, please check the requirements carefully.

Applicants must provide proof of their English skills. The level has to be minimum B2 and can be fulfilled by tests or certified language of the Bachelor's degree.

• TOEFL paper-based: 575 points
• TOEFL internet-based: 90 points
• IELTS: 6.5

Native English speakers; German, Swiss, Austrian citizens with Abitur/Matura; and students who received their first degree entirely in English do not have to submit language certificates.

Current application deadlines for the following winter semester:

• Non-EU applicants: 31 May
• EU applicants: 15 August

For further information on specific application deadlines, please visit our website.

No

Students of the University of Bonn can apply for a room in a dormitory of the "Studierendenwerk Bonn" (further information: www.studierendenwerk-bonn.de/en/accommodation).

For further information regarding housing in Bonn, please visit our website: www.uni-bonn.de/housing.

International applicants who are admitted to the Master’s programme can apply for a dorm room through the programme coordinator. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that all students will be allotted a room, as these are in short supply.

The University of Bonn has a central Career Service (www.uni-bonn.de/careerservice) that provides a range of advice and support about choosing a career and applying for jobs. Moreover, international students can join the iStart career programme (www.uni-bonn.de/istart), which teaches participants tangible knowledge and valuable skills that will enable them to write successful applications for jobs in Germany. The programme is geared toward giving students a successful career path both during and after their studies and thus making it easier for them to enter the job market.

The University of Bonn offers a range of different support programmes for international students. The Welcome Days (www.uni-bonn.de/welcomedays) before the start of every semester are an opportunity for new students from abroad to gather information on the most important issues, such as enrolment, registration with the local authorities, and opening a bank account. Getting to know fellow international and German students during recreational activities is another benefit of the Welcome Days.

The Study Buddy programme (www.uni-bonn.de/study-buddy) matches newly arrived international students (mentees) with a University of Bonn student (buddy) who helps them as they start their studies and adjust to life in Bonn. The buddies give tips, advice and assistance that make it easier for their mentees to become familiar with the university and get settled in Bonn.