This four-semester, English-taught Master of Science is an international programme at the University of Stuttgart focusing on technologies and engineering solutions for air quality control, solid waste management and wastewater process engineering. In the first semester students complete five of six advanced compulsory modules that establish the core principles of environmental and process engineering. These core modules prepare students for the more specialised coursework and practical activities in the following semesters.
In semester two students take the remaining compulsory module and then select two of three specialisation tracks: Air Quality Control, Solid Waste, or Waste Water Process Engineering. Each specialisation contains one core module, two elective modules, and hands-on components such as laboratory work or an industrial internship. Throughout the second and third semesters students may also choose additional electives, undertake a student research project or arrange an internship to tailor their individual academic profile.
The programme is designed around an individual study plan so students can either deepen a chosen speciality or broaden their skillset. Course work is supported by excursions and practical training in the university’s research facilities, and each student is assigned an adviser to help keep the study plan goal-oriented and efficient. The fourth semester is reserved for the Master’s thesis, which may be completed at the University of Stuttgart, at an industrial partner, or at another university or research institution. Non-German-speaking students are required to take German courses during the programme unless exempt; those exempted must instead take equivalent interdisciplinary modules from the university’s key-qualifications catalogue. There is also the option to spend the second year as part of a double-degree arrangement with Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR) in Brazil.
Key features and requirements
This four‑semester MSc programme combines technical foundations in process and environmental engineering with practical training and specialist elective study. In the first semester all students take five compulsory advanced modules that build core knowledge — thermodynamics and fluid dynamics, pollutant formation and air quality control, chemistry and biology for environmental engineers, sanitary engineering (solid waste and wastewater technology), and technology assessment and presentation techniques. German classes (German as a Foreign Language I) are offered alongside the course work in the first two semesters to support international students’ integration and professional communication.
In semester two students complete a Process Engineering module (mechanical and thermal process engineering) and German as a Foreign Language II. They then select two of three specialised tracks — Air Quality Control, Solid Waste Process Engineering, or Waste Water Process Engineering. Each specialisation comprises a required core module, two elective modules and hands‑on practical work or an industrial internship; core topics include firing systems and flue‑gas cleaning or air pollutant measurement (Air Quality), biological/mechanical/thermal waste treatment (Solid Waste), and urban drainage and wastewater treatment plant design (Waste Water).
A broad range of elective courses is available across semesters two and three, allowing students to tailor their studies to interests such as air quality management, membrane technology, combustion modelling, emissions reduction, operational technology for waste treatment, and practical laboratory classes. The programme emphasises both theoretical modelling and laboratory/field skills so graduates can design, simulate and operate pollution control and waste‑treatment processes. The fourth semester is reserved for the Master’s thesis, in which students undertake an independent research or applied project.
Key learning outcomes include mastery of process and environmental engineering fundamentals; understanding of pollutant formation, emissions control and air quality management; competence in solid waste and wastewater processes and system design; ability to apply modelling and simulation tools; hands‑on experience through practicals or internships; and professional presentation and technical communication skills — supported by German language training for those aiming to work in German‑speaking environments.
Requirements and structure (concise)
Applicants should hold a Bachelor’s degree (or an academic equivalent) in chemical, civil, environmental, mechanical or process engineering, or in a closely related discipline. International degrees that are comparable in scope and level to these engineering programmes are normally accepted as equivalent.
If you are applying for the EPOS‑DAAD scholarship, there is an extra eligibility condition: you must have accumulated at least two years of relevant professional work experience after finishing your Bachelor’s degree. Work done as internships during your undergraduate studies does not count toward this two‑year requirement.
Prepare to document your qualifications and any professional experience clearly when you apply—official degree certificates and employer references or contracts are commonly requested to verify eligibility.
Winter Semester (International)
15 February 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 February 2027
Graduates are prepared for technical and managerial roles in environmental and process engineering fields such as air quality monitoring and control, waste management, wastewater treatment design and operation, environmental consulting, and regulatory agencies. The programme’s combination of specialised modules, practical work and optional industry internships enhances employability in engineering consultancies, industrial companies, municipal utilities and research institutions.
The international orientation, English instruction, and optional double-degree and DAAD-funded pathways also support careers with international organisations, NGOs and cross-border projects that address environmental protection, sustainable production and pollution control.