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Industrial engineers combine technical and business expertise, making them one of Germany’s most sought-after career profiles. Private universities in Germany offer around four dozen industrial engineering programmes – spanning distance learning, dual study, part-time and full-time campus formats. All are NC-free, and monthly tuition starts at €199. Three programmes are taught entirely in English.
Below you’ll find a filterable list of all active programmes, followed by a detailed breakdown of costs, study formats, curriculum, visa requirements and salary prospects.
- Overview of all Courses
- How much does it cost to study industrial engineering at a private university?
- Are there English-taught industrial engineering programmes?
- Distance learning, dual or campus: which format suits you?
- What will you study?
- What makes industrial engineering unique?
- Student visa, health insurance and working in Germany
- What do industrial engineers earn in Germany?
- Frequently asked questions about industrial engineering in Germany
- Related programmes at private universities
Overview of all Courses
We have a total of 44 courses in the field of Industrial Engineering. The first 20 top courses are displayed. Use the filter function or our search to discover more courses in the field.
Industrial Engineering
- RH Cologne – University of Applied Science
- 7 Semester
- Cologne
- German
Industrial Engineering and Management
- IU International University of Applied Sciences
- 6 Semester
- online
- from 259 € monthly
- German or English
Industrial Engineering and International Management
- Fresenius University of Applied Sciences
- 4 Semester
- Cologne, Berlin
- from 880 € monthly
- English
Industrial Engineering
- SRH University
- 7 Semester
- Heidelberg
- from 650 € monthly
- 2 Comments & Questions
- German or English
Industrial Engineering
- Wedel University of Applied Sciences
- 7 Semester
- Wedel
- German
Industrial Engineering
- Fresenius University of Applied Sciences
- 4 Semester
- online
- from 329 € monthly
- German
Industrial Engineering
- Private University of Applied Sciences
- 7 Semester
- Diepholz
- German
Industrial Engineering
- Wedel University of Applied Sciences
- 3 Semester
- Wedel
- German
Industrial Engineering
- Hamburger Fern-Hochschule
- 8 Semester
- online
- from 490 € monthly
- German
Industrial Engineering
- FOM University of Applied Sciences
- 4 Semester
- Bremen, Dortmund, Düsseldorf, Essen, Frankfurt a. M., Hamburg, Munich, Siegen
- from 395 € monthly
- German
Industrial Engineering
- NORDAKADEMIE University of Applied Sciences
- 7 Semester
- Elmshorn
- German
Industrial Engineering
- Hochschule der Bayerischen Wirtschaft
- 7 Semester
- Munich
- from 540 € monthly
- German
Industrial Engineering
- IU International University of Applied Sciences
- 3 Semester
- online
- from 425 € monthly
- German
Industrial Engineering
- Steinbeis University
- 4 Semester
- Berlin, Stuttgart, Munich, Dresden
- German or English
Business Management and Engineering
- bbw Hochschule
- 7 Semester
- Berlin
- from 590 € monthly
- English
Industrial Engineering
- NORDAKADEMIE University of Applied Sciences
- 4 Semester
- Hamburg
- from 498 € monthly
- German or English
Industrial Engineering
- VWA University for Professional Education
- 8 Semester
- Stuttgart
- from 275 € monthly
- German
Industrial Engineering and Management
- Constructor University
- 6 Semester
- Bremen
- English
Industrial Engineering Information Technology
- Wilhelm Büchner University of Applied Sciences
- 7 Semester
- Pfungstadt
- from 333 € monthly
- German
Industrial Engineering
- DIPLOMA University of Applied Sciences
- 7 Semester
- from 247 € monthly
- German
How much does it cost to study industrial engineering at a private university?
Tuition fees for industrial engineering at private German universities range from €199 to roughly €950 per month, depending on the format and provider. Distance-learning programmes are the most affordable option, with monthly fees starting at €199 at IU International University. On-campus and dual programmes tend to cost more, but dual students typically have their fees covered by the employer.
Cheapest industrial engineering programmes
| Course | University | Duration | Fees | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Engineering, Bachelor of Science Distance learning program | SRH Fernhochschule - The Mobile University | 6 Semester | from 199 € monthly | |
| Industrial Engineering, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | DIPLOMA University of Applied Sciences | 7 Semester | from 10989 € total from 247 € monthly | |
| Industrial Engineering Electrical Engineering, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | IU International University of Applied Sciences | 6 Semester | from 14040 € total from 259 € monthly | |
| Industrial Engineering and Management, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | IU International University of Applied Sciences | 6 Semester | from 15063 € total from 259 € monthly | |
| Industrial Engineering Mechanical Engineering, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | IU International University of Applied Sciences | 6 Semester | from 15063 € total from 259 € monthly |
How does this compare internationally?
| Country | Typical annual tuition | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Germany (private) | €2,388–€10,200 | NC-free admission, staatlich anerkannt |
| United Kingdom | £9,250 (home) / £20,000–£38,000 (international) | Higher fees for non-UK students |
| United States | $30,000–$60,000 | Excludes living costs |
| Australia | AUD 30,000–AUD 45,000 | International student rate |
Even at the upper end of the German price range, private universities remain significantly cheaper than comparable programmes in the US, UK or Australia – while offering internationally recognised degrees.
Financing your studies
- EU/EEA citizens: Eligible for BAföG (up to €992/month, half as a grant) and KfW student loans (up to €650/month).
- Non-EU citizens: Must provide proof of a blocked account (Sperrkonto) with €11,904/year for the student visa. Many universities offer instalment plans and merit-based scholarships.
- Part-time work: International students may work 140 full days or 280 half days per year alongside their studies.
- Scholarships: DAAD, Deutschlandstipendium (€300/month) and university-specific scholarships are available regardless of nationality.
Are there English-taught industrial engineering programmes?
Three industrial engineering programmes at private German universities are taught entirely in English. These are aimed at international students who want to study in Germany without needing German language skills for their coursework.
| Course | University | Study site | Duration | Language | Fees | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Engineering and International Management, Master of Science On-campus program | Fresenius University of Applied Sciences | Cologne, Berlin | 4 Semester | English | from 21815 € total | |
| Industrial Engineering and Management, Bachelor of Engineering On-campus program | Fresenius University of Applied Sciences | Cologne | 6 Semester | English | from 34895 € total | |
| Industrial Engineering and Management, Bachelor of Science On-campus program | Constructor University | Bremen | 6 Semester | English | from 81000 € total |
Fresenius University offers both a B.Eng. and an M.Sc. in Industrial Engineering & Management in English, while Constructor University in Bremen runs a B.Eng. programme with an international cohort. All three programmes are staatlich anerkannt (state-recognised) and carry full ECTS credits.
All other industrial engineering programmes are taught in German. You will typically need B2–C1 level German proficiency, verified through TestDaF, DSH or a Goethe certificate. To check whether your previous qualifications are recognised in Germany, consult the anabin database and submit your documents via uni-assist.
Distance learning, dual or campus: which format suits you?
Industrial engineering programmes at private German universities come in four main formats. Your choice depends on your work situation, visa status and learning preferences.
| Format | Structure | Duration | Cost range | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Distance learning | Online lectures, digital exams, optional on-campus days | 6–12 semesters | €199–€490/month | Working professionals, flexible schedule |
| Dual study | Alternating university & company phases | 6–8 semesters | Usually employer-funded | School leavers seeking work experience + degree |
| Part-time (campus) | Evening/weekend classes alongside employment | 7–9 semesters | €275–€520/month | Employed professionals, career changers |
| Full-time campus | Regular daytime lectures on campus | 6–7 semesters | €215–€950/month | International students with student visa |
Distance learning: the most flexible option
Around 40% of all industrial engineering programmes at private universities are distance-learning formats. Monthly fees start at €199 at IU International University. Most distance programmes allow you to study from anywhere – ideal if you are abroad and preparing to move to Germany, or already working in Germany and studying alongside your job.
| Course | University | Duration | Fees | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Engineering, Bachelor of Science Distance learning program | SRH Fernhochschule - The Mobile University | 6 Semester | from 199 € monthly | |
| Industrial Engineering Electrical Engineering, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | IU International University of Applied Sciences | 6 Semester | from 14040 € total from 259 € monthly | |
| Industrial Engineering, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | Fresenius University of Applied Sciences | 6 Semester | from 14220 € total from 259 € monthly | |
| Industrial Engineering and Management, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | IU International University of Applied Sciences | 6 Semester | from 15063 € total from 259 € monthly | |
| Industrial Engineering Mechanical Engineering, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | IU International University of Applied Sciences | 6 Semester | from 15063 € total from 259 € monthly |
Key providers for distance-learning industrial engineering include AKAD University, Wilhelm Büchner University, DIPLOMA University and SRH Distance Learning University. All programmes are accredited and lead to the same degrees (B.Eng. or M.Eng./M.Sc.) as their on-campus equivalents.
Dual study: employer-funded, hands-on
Dual study programmes combine university courses with paid employment at a partner company. The employer typically covers tuition and pays a monthly training allowance. This format is particularly popular with German school leavers but is also open to international applicants – provided you hold a work permit or EU citizenship.
| Course | University | Study site | Duration | Fees | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Engineering, Bachelor of Engineering Dual studies | IU International University of Applied Sciences | Virtual Campus | 7 Semester | ||
| Industrial Engineering, Bachelor of Science Dual studies | NORDAKADEMIE University of Applied Sciences | Elmshorn | 7 Semester | ||
| Industrial Engineering, Bachelor of Engineering Dual studies | Private University of Applied Sciences | Diepholz | 7 Semester | ||
| Industrial Engineer, Bachelor of Science On-campus program | FHM University of Applied Sciences | Frechen | 28 Months | from 17160 € total |
Dual programmes are offered by FOM University and IU, among others. Most require B2-level German because the workplace component takes place in a German-speaking environment.
What will you study?
Industrial engineering programmes combine engineering and business modules in roughly equal proportion. The first semesters cover fundamentals from both fields; from the third or fourth semester, you choose a specialisation.
| Engineering (~50%) | Business (~50%) |
|---|---|
| Mathematics, physics, statistics | Business administration, economics, accounting |
| Materials science, engineering design | Controlling, corporate finance |
| Manufacturing technology, production planning | Marketing, strategic management |
| Technical mechanics, electrical engineering | Project management, logistics |
| Quality management, CAD | Business law, supply chain management |
Common specialisations
- Mechanical engineering & production: Manufacturing processes, automation, lean management
- Electrical engineering & IT: Industry 4.0, digitalisation, IoT
- Energy & sustainability: Renewable energy systems, environmental management
- Logistics & supply chain: Procurement, international supply networks
- Medical engineering: Regulatory affairs, product development in healthcare
What makes industrial engineering unique?
Industrial engineering (Wirtschaftsingenieurwesen) is a distinctly German discipline that trains professionals to work at the interface of technology and business. Graduates develop what is called Schnittstellenkompetenz – the ability to bridge engineering departments and commercial decision-making. This dual qualification sets industrial engineers apart from both pure business graduates and pure engineers.
| Criterion | Industrial Engineering | Business Administration | Mechanical Engineering |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technical depth | Moderate (production, logistics, IT) | Low | High (design, materials, mechanics) |
| Business depth | Moderate (finance, marketing, management) | High | Low |
| Interface skills | Core competency | Optional | Optional |
| Typical entry salary | €47,000–€53,000 | €40,000–€45,000 | €48,000–€52,000 |
| Labour market demand | Very high | High | Very high |
Germany faces a persistent engineer shortage: according to the VDI/IW Engineer Monitor 2025, there are 194 open engineering positions for every 100 unemployed engineers. Industrial engineers are among the most versatile profiles in this market because they can fill roles in production management, supply chain, consulting and technical sales – areas where pure specialists often lack the cross-functional perspective.
Student visa, health insurance and working in Germany
International students from outside the EU/EEA need a student visa to study in Germany. The key requirements and practical facts for 2026:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Blocked account (Sperrkonto) | €11,904/year (€992/month) – required proof of financial means for the visa application |
| Health insurance | Approximately €120/month for students under 30 (statutory insurers like TK, AOK or Barmer) |
| Part-time work | 140 full days or 280 half days per year – no additional work permit needed |
| Semester ticket / transport | Deutschlandticket at €63/month covers all local and regional public transport nationwide |
| Post-graduation | 18-month job-seeking visa after graduation – no employer sponsorship required during this period |
Germany’s 18-month post-study job-seeking visa is one of the most generous in Europe. Combined with the engineer shortage and competitive salaries, studying industrial engineering in Germany offers a clear pathway from graduation to a permanent career.
What do industrial engineers earn in Germany?
Industrial engineers in Germany earn above-average salaries thanks to their dual qualification. Entry-level salaries for Bachelor graduates start at around €47,000 gross per year, while Master graduates typically enter at €53,000. With experience, annual salaries regularly exceed €80,000 – and senior professionals in high-paying industries can reach €100,000 or more.
Salary by career stage
| Career stage | Gross annual salary |
|---|---|
| Entry level (Bachelor) | €47,000 |
| Entry level (Master) | €53,000 |
| Median (all experience levels) | €64,500 |
| Senior (10+ years experience) | €80,000–€100,000+ |
Salary by industry
| Industry | Median gross annual salary |
|---|---|
| Banking & financial services | €65,500 |
| Aerospace | €62,000 |
| Automotive | €60,000 |
| Mechanical engineering | €58,000 |
| IT & technology | €57,000 |
| Energy & utilities | €56,000 |
| Logistics & supply chain | €52,000 |
Typical career paths
Industrial engineers work wherever technical expertise and business acumen intersect:
- Project management: Planning, controlling and budgeting technical projects – from product development to factory design
- Supply chain management: Optimising logistics, coordinating procurement, reducing costs across global networks
- Technical sales: Selling complex industrial products to B2B clients, managing key accounts
- Production management: Running manufacturing operations, implementing lean methods, driving efficiency
- Management consulting: Advising industrial firms on process optimisation, digitalisation and restructuring
- Quality management: Ensuring compliance with standards, conducting audits, managing certifications
Sources: StepStone Gehaltsreport 2025, gehalt.de, VDI/IW Engineer Monitor. Figures represent median gross annual salaries for industrial engineers in Germany.
Frequently asked questions about industrial engineering in Germany
Yes. All private universities listed on privathochschulen.net are staatlich anerkannt (state-recognised) and their programmes are accredited by agencies such as FIBAA, ACQUIN or AQAS. Degrees from these institutions carry the same legal weight as those from public universities – both in Germany and internationally through the Bologna system.
Three programmes are currently taught entirely in English: a B.Eng. and an M.Sc. at Fresenius University, and a B.Eng. at Constructor University in Bremen. All other industrial engineering programmes at private universities require German at B2–C1 level.
Industrial engineers work across virtually every sector. The highest-paying industries include banking (€65,500 median), aerospace (€62,000) and automotive (€60,000). Other common employers operate in mechanical engineering, IT, energy and logistics. Germany’s engineer shortage means demand is strong across all of these sectors.
Related programmes at private universities
If you are considering fields adjacent to industrial engineering, these related programmes may also be worth exploring:
About the Author Christian Wolf
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