In order to train professionals for the challenges posed by the energy transition in Germany, Hochschule Düsseldorf – University of Applied Sciences plans to establish new continuing education master's programmes for German and international students together with the University Alliance Ruhr (UA Ruhr – an alliance between TU Dortmund University, Ruhr University Bochum and University of Duisburg-Essen).
Among others, the following study programmes (working titles) are planned:
- Management of Smart and Sustainable Energy Systems
- Engineering and Hydrogen Technologies of Sustainable Energy System
- Smart Design, Construction and Operation of Sustainable Buildings
All programmes are taught in English and will be located at EUREF-Campus Düsseldorf, where local businesses that operate internationally will be working on the future-oriented issues of energy, mobility and sustainability from 2024 onwards. The four universities involved are currently creating the necessary structures to enable initial enrolments in winter semester 2025/26. It is planned to offer up to 120 study places annually from 2030.
Three of the four master's programmes envisaged will expand industrial engineering skills and also provide specialist knowledge on sustainable solutions for energy systems, construction and mobility. Another engineering study programme will focus on technologies for the use of renewable energies with a focus on hydrogen. Primary target group are bachelor's graduates from abroad who have already gained some professional experience and want to continue their career path in Germany. Alumni of the four partner universities will also be able to take advantage of the study programmes with the help of scholarships.
Business and science closely linked‘With our strong engineering competence in Düsseldorf, we want to advance climate protection with our partners of the University Alliance Ruhr,’ said Prof. Dr. Edeltraud Vomberg, President of Hochschule Düsseldorf – University of Applied Sciences. Both the president of the university and the Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Prof. Dr. Martin Ruess, have been very committed to the partnership.
In cooperation with the professor of Sustainable Industry and Circular Economy at TU Dortmund University, the Faculty of Mechanical and Process Engineering assumes responsibility for the Engineering and Hydrogen Technologies of Sustainable Energy study programme. Further participation in a second study programme is currently being discussed and would particularly involve teaching staff from the Faculties of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Architecture and Business Studies in this continuing education initiative on climate-neutral energy generation.
Ruess sees ‘a great benefit for HSD in moulding the looming competition into good cooperation and coexistence by actively participating in the continuing education study programmes and thus taking advantage of the opportunity to participate in all future developments.’
