Sustainable Materials and Engineering (M.Sc.)

Science that shapes tomorrow

The future-proof economy of tomorrow will not just require employing new materials but also implementing new ways of thinking and sustainable engineering.

Between utilizing existing sustainable materials and developing new ones, processing materials in a more energy- and resource-efficient way and integrating them into products so they can be reintroduced into a circular resource stream, it is clear that natural sciences and engineering will play a key role in the sustainable transition.

The interdisciplinary Master's degree programme Sustainable Materials and Engineering focuses on this challenge. In the programme, you will learn how sustainable materials are created and be tasked with thinking and designing outside of the box to integrate these materials into all aspects of the circular economy. To take on the challenge, you will combine knowledge from chemistry, materials science and engineering, and systems engineering while maintaining a clear focus on sustainability. With English as one of the languages of instruction, you will be well prepared for international careers both in the industry and in research.

Eingangstor der Universität mit Nebengebäuden
Fünf junge Menschen laufen frontal auf den Betrachter zu.
Panoramaaufnahme des Campus Saarbrücken
Gebäudeansicht D1 2 auf dem Campus der Universität des Saarlandes

What awaits you

You will earn a total of 120 ECTS credits, typically taking 30 credits per semester.

Starting your first semester

Right from the start, students build a comprehensive foundation through 30 ECTS credits of mandatory modules in the following subjects:

  • Chemistry and Analytics
  • Compulsory Elective Lab Course
  • Technical Principles of Sustainability and Circular Economy
  • Resources and Materials
  • Economic aspects of circular innovations

You pick the focus

The Sustainable Materials and Engineering Master's specialist areas allow you to fit the programme to your strengths and interests. You pick two of the three following focus areas:

  • Sustainable Chemistry
  • Sustainable Materials
  • Sustainable Systems Engineering

Interdisciplinary and practice-oriented

Before starting your Master's thesis, you will complete an interdisciplinary project with the support of two supervisors from different academic fields. 

Your Master's thesis

The topic of your master's thesis will also be interdisciplinary, drawing from at least two academic fields and completed under the guidance of two thesis supervisors.
After submitting your thesis, your work will culminate in an exam colloquium where you will present your project to the public. The exam colloquium is comprised of two parts: a thirty-minute scientific presentation followed by up to thirty minutes for your thesis examiners to ask questions.

Starting your career

Ready to begin your Master's journey at Saarland University?

Apply today! We look forward to welcoming you!

Visit our application portal

Have questions about studying at Saarland University? Get in touch with the Central Student Advisory Service

Do you have questions about your future study programme, how to apply or how to finance your studies? The experts at the Central Student Advisory Service are happy to help. You can book a one-on-one advisory session any time to discuss all your questions. This service is free of charge.

Central Student Advisory Service

Get advice–directly from the department

If you have more questions about the study programme, don't hesitate to contact one of our departmental representatives via the form below. 

More benefits

Before your studies even begin, comprehensive support options are available to make your transition as successful as possible. Our Welcome Center supports international students even before they have arrived and until they have got settled, offering advice on visas, enrolment, finding accommodation, enrolling in health insurance and opening a bank account, allowing you to direct your full attention to starting off your studies right.

The Centre for International Students offers cultural events, excursions and more which will help you get to know other students and get settled on campus in no time. A particular highlight is the buddy programme 'you & me', which will not only help you get to know German culture, but also offers everyday support and answers to your practical questions as you settle here in Saarbrücken.

Here are just a few more reasons why you should choose Saarbrücken:

  • Excellent environment for start-ups: free start-up coaching, funding, a strong connection to industry networks, lively start-up culture and courses on founding your business
  • Comparatively low cost of living in the Saarland state capital, Saarbrücken
  • Dynamic Career Center: an active internship and job portal, workshops to get you prepared for starting your career and career counselling services on everything from part-time jobs to transitioning into the workforce
  • International campus with over 21% international students
  • Exchange programmes with over 500 partners worldwide, international opportunities throughout Europe through the University of the Greater Region and Transform4Europe networks
  • Fairtrade University, AStA-Velo short- and long-term bicycle loan service, Students for Future Saar, Scientists for Future and much more