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Master of Science (MSc)
Communication and Information Technology
More about the course
Communication and Information Technology is a two-year, research-oriented MSc programme covering fundamentals and advanced topics in areas such as mixed-signal and RF circuits, radar design, wireless and optical communication, signal processing, and machine learning.
Core and specialisation modules provide both breadth and depth, allowing students to focus on an up-to-date specialisation in either Communications Engineering, Communications Circuits and Systems, Intelligent Systems, or Sensor Circuits and Systems. Lab courses offer hands-on training in experimental and simulation methods, while the six-month Master’s thesis involves independent research within highly active and well-funded research groups.
The programme is fully taught in English; additional German language classes are part of the programme. Since 1998, students from over 50 countries have graduated, contributing to a strong international and intercultural environment.
Academic Degree
Master of Science (MSc)
Type of Study
- Full-time
Study Curriculum
Application
Admission regulations
Start of Study
- each summer semester
Language of Instruction
- English
Admission Requirements
- No restriction
ECTS Credits
120
Standard Period of Study
4
Programme structure
This graphic is for illustrative purposes only. Detailed information can be found in our current curriculum Study Plan
About the programme
As the world enters the information age, advanced communication and information systems are key to global development—creating strong demand for skilled engineers.
The MSc in Communication and Information Technology at Ulm University, established in 1998, prepares students for this future with a research-focused, English-taught programme tailored for international students.
The curriculum offers flexibility to follow individual interests, while ensuring a solid foundation and guidance. Students should bring a strong background in electrical engineering or related fields and be ready for independent, research-based study—culminating in a Master's thesis within cutting-edge research projects.
Curricular
Our curriculum offers great flexibility to tailor your studies to your interests, supported by experienced guidance to ensure long-term career benefits.
The programme includes:
• Core subjects (compulsory)
• Specialisation subjects (based on your chosen track)
• Practical subjects
• Complementary subjects
The study plan 2021 (FSPO 2021) offers four specialisations:
• Communications Engineering: Applied telecommunications theory
• Communications Circuits and Systems: Integrated RF circuits and hardware aspects
• Intelligent Systems: Machine learning, pattern recognition, secure systems
• Sensor Circuits and Systems: Mixed-signal circuit and radar design
In addition to programme-specific regulations, general rules (General Framework or "Rahmenordnung") also apply. For currently enrolled students, the 2017 version remains valid.
Requirements for all applicants
The Master of Science programme Communication and Information Technology builds upon prior knowledge, which you should have acquired during your Bachelor education.
In order to assess your prior knowledge and to judge by yourself whether you are familiar with the background material required and presumed at the Communication and Information Technology programme, please carefully work through the following questions. Test your prior knowledge.
Application process
Applicants with a German degree apply directly through Ulm University's Online application system.
Applicants with a foreign degree must apply via uni-assist:
• Register on the online portal
• Upload required documents
• Submit the application electronically
• Pay the handling fee
All documents and fees must be received before the deadline. See the application website for details.
Important: Applications by email or post are not accepted.
Application documents
Students interested in the programme have to submit their application documents, which will then be reviewed. The legal basis for admission is defined in the admissions statutes (currently being revised). The statutes also refer to the university’s language policies for the English language requirements.
The current application period is from 15 August – 30 September. Tuition fees may apply.
After evaluation of your documents, and upon positive decision on your application, Ulm University will send you a letter of admission. We will hopefully start sending admission letters in November. Please note that for organizational reasons it is impossible to answer any requests concerning the status of admission.
We look forward to your application!
I do not have my English language score now. Can I send the result later?
Yes, you may submit your English language certificate separately, but no later than the time of enrolment — otherwise, enrolment is not possible. Please include proof of test registration with your application.
Communication and Information Technologies shape our increasingly global societies, and deeply impact our daily lives
After Admission
Visa and immigration requirements for foreign students
Foreign students must apply for a student visa at the German Embassy in their home country. Do not enter Germany on a tourist visa, as changing visa status locally is not allowed.
Apply for your visa immediately after receiving your admission letter. Processing can take several weeks. Check with your embassy for country-specific requirements. You’ll typically need:
1. Letter of admission (Zulassung)
2. Proof of payment of fees (administrative fee and tuition fees)
3. Proof of financial means (min. €1,000/month), be prepared to show a bank statement covering the full expenses of the first year!
4. Any additional documents requested by the embassy
The excellent frequently asked questions pool at the DAAD website is a good resource.
What services and assistance are provided?
Along with your admission letter, you’ll receive information on available services. We assist you with housing (dormitory reservations), and a senior student will welcome and support you upon arrival.
An intensive German course is offered in March, before lectures begin — attendance is strongly recommended. We also help with formalities after arrival.
Housing
Admitted students can request a room in a student dormitory via a housing request provided after admission. There are four dorms downtown (25 min by bus) and two near campus (walking distance).
All rooms are single and fully furnished. Kitchens and bathrooms are shared with 2 to 12 people, depending on the dorm. Dorms are mixed-gender.
Main dormitories include Eselsbergsteige, Manfred-Börner-Straße (both near campus), and Gutenbergstraße downtown. An overview can be found here. Prices range from € 285 to € 477 per month. Internet and multimedia access are provided.
Financial issues
Fees
Tuition fees apply to international (non-EU) and second-degree students. Since winter semester 2017/18, international students pay € 1,500 per semester. Additional administrative fees of about € 182 per semester are charged by the university and the student union (Studierendenwerk). Please find further information at UULM Study, Application and enrolment or on the Ministry's website. Living expenses average around € 1,000 per month.
Financial Support:
Students receive substantial state funding from tax revenues automatically, but are responsible for living costs. Many foreign students find part-time research assistantships (HiWi jobs) within the engineering sciences, which they must seek themselves. It is recommended not to exceed 40 work hours per month during studies.
During breaks, students may work up to 140 days per year without a labor permit. During lectures, working over 20 hours/week requires special permission and is generally discouraged. More info: studying-in-germany.org.
Student jobs are generally available in Ulm.
Scholarships:
For scholarship information, consult:
- the DAAD website,
- Stipendienlotse (BMBF scholarship database) and other BMBF scholarships
- Stipendium Plus (consolidated scholarship portal)
- Deutscher Bildungsserver (in German)
The CIT programme cannot endorse or recommend specific funding sources.
Getting started at Ulm University
Getting started - Organization (Part 1)
Consulting and Support
Study in Ulm
Graduation ceremony on Münsterplatz
A Brief Introduction to Ulm
Career prospects
Ulm University is located in a region shaped by advanced technology and a strong industrial base, featuring both innovative medium-sized enterprises and global players such as BMW, Bosch, Siemens, and Zeiss. These companies rely on well-educated professionals to maintain their competitiveness in global markets.
Graduates of the Master's programme in Communication and Information Technology benefit from excellent career prospects in Germany and abroad. Through close research collaborations between the university and industry leaders, students gain valuable hands-on experience.
The field of Communication and Information Technology offers a wide range of career opportunities, particularly in areas such as integrated circuit design, radar systems, wireless communications, embedded systems, and signal processing. The interdisciplinary training equips graduates for roles in research and development, system design, project management, and technical consultancy.
Given the ongoing digital transformation across industries, the demand for skilled professionals in communication and information technologies continues to grow-ensuring strong employment opportunities for graduates. In addition, the Master's programme provides an excellent foundation for pursuing a PhD and an academic career.
For almost two decades, the Master of Science Programme Communication and Information Technology has prepared international students for exciting careers in today's global information society and in a broad spectrum of industrial areas, especially in research and development.
Application areas go from mobile communications via the automotive industry to medical engineering. Furthermore, good graduates from the programme are well prepared for a doctoral research study. The programme is therefore also the basis for a scientific career at a University or research institute throughout the world.
Nokia is a global leader in telecommunications serving customers in more than 100 countries. In Ulm next to Ulm University campus Nokia is operating a Research & Development center with focus on network infrastructure for LTE and 5G. Although located in Germany the number of nationalities of our employees is beyond 30 according to the global dimension of our business. Therefore we highly appreciate the international orientation of the Communication and Information Technology curriculum. The subjects taught match very well with the skill profile expected from engineers working in Nokia. As a former external lecturer in this master programme I am always happy to meet former students graduated in Communication and Information Technology who are now colleagues in Nokia may it be in Ulm or during business trips in other parts of the world.
Dr. Hans-Joachim Dreßler, Site Manager Nokia Ulm
Dr. George Yammine, Fraunhofer IIS
“When it comes to studying in Germany, the students should take the opportunity to develop an independent study plan and do lots of reading about the study subjects when they have doubts. We have an awesome library at Uni Ulm!
When it comes to living in Germany, and Ulm in particular, enjoy the country! Germany has a lot to offer when it comes to culture. Go to museums, visit castles, enjoy the view, take a walk down the Danube!“
Dr. Hebat-Allah Abdeen
“The programme has a diverse scope and is well suited for people from different educational systems. It is a great opportunity for one to widen one's horizon. It is important to learn how to manage your time and follow up always with the classes and syllabuses. Meanwhile, one should also find time for some refreshment, exercising, hiking/going on excursions from time to time. One should work hard on getting the best out of the whole experience.”
Studying and living in Ulm
Welcome to the most liveable city in Germany. Albert Einstein's birthplace is a unique combination of science, leisure, top employers and culture. Top locations and events such as the Ulmer Zelt, Nabada or the Donaufest attract visitors to the quaint streets. Here you feel at home!
Copyright: City of Ulm
Goal achieved! You now have all the information about the Communication and Information Technology programme
Last Step: If you can answer these questions positively, the Communication and Information Technology programme could be your dream degree programme!
- Do you have a solid foundation in electrical and electronic engineering, RF engineering, signal theory and mathematics?
- Are you curious about complex technical systems and eager to develop innovative solutions?
- Are you fascinated by modern communication technologies and their impact on our connected world?
- Do you want to help shape the future of communication, circuits and systems, and contribute to meaningful technological progress?
- Are you motivated to work in an interdisciplinary environment that brings together engineering, computer science, physics, and more?
Noch Fragen offen? Zur Studienfachberatung
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