In scientific cooperation with
In scientific cooperation with
Join our multinational solar community where world-renowned research advances and combines with your studies. Continue studying. Be inquisitive. And get ready to BE THE CHANGE.
Fully taught in English and online, this duly accredited German Master of Science programme caters to professionals, who want to study online at their own pace without disrupting work or family life. Whether you are looking for a new career or already have a busy professional schedule; our master programme shapes around you. We offer part-time, flexible and online learning environment which gives you the freedom to study wherever and whenever you want. Examinations do not require travelling abroad since they are arranged by us in a study centre close to your location.
The University of Freiburg partners with one of the world’s top research institutes in solar energy - Fraunhofer ISE - to provide innovative, insightful and tailored training, so you can be assured that our MSc in Solar Energy Engineering will broaden your knowledge, widen your skill set and greatly improve your future career prospects.
Our instructors are not only international experts and working scientists who lead the way in their fields; they are also dedicated to your studies and professional development. 20-minute e-lectures combined with a great collection of reading material provide you with the latest theoretical understanding of each topic. References - incorporated into the videos - point you to the most relevant sections in the reading material. Your growing expertise is put into practice through 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 distance-learning experience.
A particular gem in this programme are two obligatory 2-day workshops on campus, in Freiburg, where you get to use the state-of-the-art facilities at the Fraunhofer ISE institute for hands-on practice and research. And if you would like more of that, we are happy to welcome you for a whole research semester, which can be arranged in preparation for your master thesis. On top of that, you are cordially invited to come and visit us during the Campus Phase week which are organized twice a year.
The MSc in Solar Energy Engineering offers you comprehensive, 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, cost and service life. This programme offers the opportunity to specialize in one or more sub-areas of solar energy production, such as solar cell technologies, photovoltaic systems, solar thermal technology, material and cell characterization, systems integration, and electricity networks.
The modules offered in 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.
Certain courses in the Preparatory Modules and the Research Projects can be credited if candidates can provide proof of prior specialized knowledge.
For more detailed information on the course structure and content, please download our List of Modules and the Module Handbook.
Study online and benefit from a real student experience. Throughout your studies you are closely supported by tutors and lecturers in each module. Regular online meetings with your tutors and lively forum discussions give you plenty of opportunity to exchange views and ask questions.
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 it poses a unique networking opportunity for participants. During this week, students will gain valuable hands-on experience in lab trainings at the high-end facilities of Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy ISE. Invited speakers from scientific field and industry will deepen your understanding and connect you to the growing global community of solar energy practitioners. In addition, you have the chance to explore Europe’s Solar City - Freiburg im Breisgau.
You are not able to attend the 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 dexterity.
Of course, you are welcome to prepare your thesis in your home country too - we will find the option that suits you the best. And - whichever way you decide - we will support you along the way.
Every year some lucky students are presented with the tremendous opportunity to relocate to Freiburg and join one of the scientific research teams at Fraunhofer ISE. Here, you will acquire a special skill-set that will set you in high demand of the industry.
The earnings you receive can cover the living costs and support you to pay a part of your tuition fees. However, there is no guarantee for a position, and you can only apply once you have enrolled as a student in our programme. If you are interested in this option, please talk to us and send us a cover letter and CV.
In the German University system an academic year consists of two terms: the Winter Semester (WS) and the Sommer Semester (SS). The duration of the master studies varies from 4 to 6 semesters depending on the applicant’s previous degrees and knowledge in the fields of semiconductors physics and electrical engineering. An individual assessment acquired before registration to the program provides the basis to determine the individual study plan for each applicant. The costs for one semester consist of:
In total, students are expected to earn 60, 90 or 120 credit points (ECTS) - depending on their previous degrees. Hence, the total costs range between 12,500 € up to 22,500 € assuming a regular study period (without major breaks in between).
Currently, we don’t run any scholarship programmes ourselves. But you can check out the following links for third party scholarship opportunities: