How Your Work-integrated Master’s Works

HECTOR School’s Master of Science programs are designed around the needs of working professionals. Compact on-campus modules, clearly structured study phases and practical application in the workplace allow you to integrate your studies into your professional life. Explore how the program is organized—from your first module to the completion of your master’s thesis.

Key Facts

  • Structure: Part-time (but enrolled as a fulltime student)
  • Duration: 15 months plus time needed for master's thesis (varies)
  • Format: 10 modules of 2 weeks each over a period of 15 months
  • Costs: 36,000.00 € (thirty-six thousand Euros) overall (for detailed information, see Tuition and Fees)
  • Language: English
  • Degree: Master of Science (M.Sc.) of the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology)
  • Start: Every year in October (flexible schedule possible)

Program Structure

  • 5 Engineering Modules
  • 5 Management Modules
  • Each module lasts 2 weeks
  • Modules take place over a period of 15 months
  • The coursework phase is followed by the Master’s thesis
  • The overall duration is approximately 20 months, depending on the thesis phase
  • The Master's thesis is often written in cooperation with the student's company and can be used an an innovation project.

Workload & Compatibility with Work

The modular structure allows participants to plan their studies around their professional responsibilities. During the module phases, students should expect intensive teaching periods and active participation.

This format is especially suitable for professionals who want to combine academic development with ongoing career progression.

Attendance

Attendance in lectures and active participation are strongly recommended. In-person exchange with professors and fellow students is an important part of the learning experience.

If students are unable to attend a module, an official excuse including the reason must be submitted before the start of the module. In case of illness, a medical certificate must be provided within three days.

Exams

Exams usually take place during the modules. They may be scheduled:

  • on Saturdays
  • during lectures
  • during the week in the evening

Exam formats may include:

  • written exams
  • oral exams
  • presentations
  • case studies

 

 

Students must register for exams in writing with the Examination Office of HECTOR School.

The course of studies, examinations and graduation are described in the official Study and Examination Regulations.

If students are unable to take an exam, an official excuse must be submitted before the exam starts.

If a written exam is not passed, it can usually be repeated once. If the written exam is failed twice, an oral exam will take place. Oral exams can also be repeated once.

Exam dates and repeat examinations are organized in cooperation with the Examination Office.

Master's Thesis

The coursework phase is followed by the Master’s thesis. Students are encouraged to start thinking about a possible thesis topic during their studies.

The Master’s thesis offers the opportunity to:

  • deepen your expertise in a subject relevant to your field
  • explore a topic you are personally and professionally interested in
  • address a practical challenge from your company
  • initiate or support an innovation project within your organization

HECTOR School supports students in finding a suitable topic, identifying an appropriate supervisor and planning the thesis phase in a way that helps them complete their studies successfully.

Explore previous Master's thesis topics