Solar energy experts - Made in Germany

Our teachers are not only international experts and real world scientists - who are leading the way in their fields - they are also dedicated to your studies and professional development.We use a wide range of teaching styles and formats allowing you to engage with each topic in many compelling ways. Short 20-minute e-lectures combined with a great collection of reading material provide you with the latest theoretical understanding of each topic. Our lecturers have carefully selected the most relevant publications for you. References -  incorporated into the videos - point you to the most relevant parts in the reading material. Your growing expertise is put into practice through the processing of case studies in exercise sheets, quizzes and self-assessments. Regular online meetings and lively forum discussions with fellow students, tutors and lecturers will round off your ideal learning experience.

A particular gem within this programme are two obligatory 2-day workshops on campus in Freiburg where you get to use the state-of-the-art facilities within the Fraunhofer ISE institute for some hands-on practice and research. And if you would like more of that, we will be happy to welcome you for a whole research semester, which can be arranged in preparation for you Master Thesis. On top of that, you are always most warmly invited to come and visit us during the Campus Phases which are organized twice a year.

The MSc Solar Energy Engineering offers you broad-based, interdisciplinary, technical and scientific training in the field of solar energy production. You will acquire subject-relevant skills, from developing and producing photovoltaic and solar thermal systems to the assembly of complex plants, power stations and energy networks: In particular, you will be able to optimize parts, systems and plants while considering aspects such as innovation, efficiency, costs and service life. In close cooperation with institutes both at the university and outside of it - particularly the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems - this programme offers the opportunity to specialize in one or more subareas of solar energy production, such as solar cell technologies, photovoltaic systems, solar thermal technology, material and cell characterization and systems integration and electricity networks.

The modules offered within the Master programme are repeated annually and are divided into Preparatory, Mandatory and Elective Modules as well as Research Projects. Your final semester is reserved for the preparation of your Master Thesis.

The Preparatory Modules provide you with the required background knowledge for mastering the more in-depth topics of the Mandatory Modules. The Elective Modules - later on in your studies - present you with the opportunity to specialize in those subjects that you are most enthusiastic about. During the whole course of your studies you will complete five Research Projects which are designed to gradually enhance your practical skill-set and scientific research methods which again will prepare you for your biggest challenge of the whole programme - your Master Thesis.

Certain courses within the Preparatory Modules and within the Research Projects can be credited if candidates can give proof of prior specialized knowledge.

For more detailed information on the course, please download our List of Modules or the Module Handbook.

The student experience

Study online but don’t miss out on your student experience -  Throughout the entire period of your studies you are being closely monitored and supported by the tutors and lecturers of each module. Regular online meetings with your tutors and lively forum discussions give you plenty of opportunity to exchange views and ask questions.
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Every six months, you are invited to join our voluntary Campus Phase here in Freiburg, where you get to meet lecturers and students face-to-face. The Campus Phase is a real highlight of the programme and poses a unique networking opportunity for everybody participating. Additionally, students will gain valuable hands-on experience during lab trainings in the high-end facilities of Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Engergy ISE. Invited speakers from science and industry will deepen your understanding and connect you to the growing global community of solar energy practitioners. On top of that, you have the chance to explore Europe’s Solar City - Freiburg im Breisgau.

You are not able to attend a Campus Phase in person? No worries. Most of the events are transmitted live online and are also available for later streaming.

During the last year of your studies you have the tremendous opportunity to join us in Freiburg for a research semester, which will provide the basis for your Master Thesis. For the duration of 3-8 months you will team up with one of our research groups and develop your expertise and scientific prowess.

Of course, you are also welcome to prepare your thesis in your home country - we will find the option that suits you best. And - whichever way you decide - we will support you all the way.