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Facts and figures
3D Printing
In industry, 3D Printing is not an isolated software or machine application, but rather an interplay of physics, material behaviour, design and manufacturing technology. So-called additive manufacturing is transforming entire production processes – particularly in areas where traditional mechanical methods reach their geometric or economic limits.
Customised medical devices, lightweight components for the mobility sector, rapid prototyping and decentralised production would be almost inconceivable without additive manufacturing. This is precisely why companies are looking for skilled workers who can not only operate machines but also rethink manufacturing processes.
"How much physics is there in Physical Engineering?" | Professor and student answer FAQs about the degree programme
An overview of the course content
The 3D Printing module within the Physical Engineering degree programme is about more than just producing individual plastic parts. You’ll learn how additive manufacturing actually works: from material properties and design, through process parameters, to the technical realisation of complex components using metal 3D printing. The key question here is not ‘How do you print something?’, but rather: How must products be developed so that additive manufacturing can fully realise its technological advantages?
The degree programme combines fundamental principles of physics and engineering with direct practical application. In modules such as ‘Function-Oriented Design for 3D Printing’ or the comprehensive practical course ‘3D Printing Processes’, you will work on real-world manufacturing processes and learn to develop components specifically for additive manufacturing processes. You will analyse printing processes, evaluate material behaviour and understand how precision, stability and manufacturing strategy are interrelated. This results in a technical profile that goes well beyond mere ‘CAD and printing’.
Mechanics
Fundamentals of Information Technology
Design
Electrical Engineering
Mathematics for Physicists
transversal skills
Currents/Waves
CAD Techniques
General Chemistry
Procedural Programming
Mathematics: Analysis
Materials Science
Thermodynamics and Electrodynamics
Technical Optics
Physical Measurement Technology
Advanced Mathematical Methods
Instrumentation/Safety
Engineering Physics
Optical Metrology
Structure of Matter
Engineering Mechanics
2 specialisation modules:
- 3D printing processes
- Function-oriented design for 3D Printing
Business Management
Fundamentals of Manufacturing Technology
Analogue Technology
Microsystems Technology
2 specialisation modules:
- Fundamentals of Additive Manufacturing
- Complex practical course on 3D printing processes
Practical module
: Independent scientific and practical work within a company
Duration: 12 weeks
Bachelor’s
thesis: Final, independent academic thesis
Duration: 12 weeks
Physical Engineering in Mittweida
In summary – 3D Printing in Mittweida
Specialisation within the full-time Bachelor’s degree programme in Physical Engineering
(180 Credits)
After studying Physical Engineering with a specialisation in 3D Printing, you could, for example, work as a development engineer in additive manufacturing, a design engineer for generative manufacturing processes, or a process engineer in high-tech manufacturing. Roles in research and development, medical technology, aerospace and industrial product development are also typical career paths.
Application and Admission
Applicants must hold a general university entrance qualification, a university of applied sciences entrance qualification, a subject-specific university entrance qualification or an equivalent recognised qualification. Applicants who have completed vocational training and have at least three years’ professional experience may also be admitted following a consultation and a successful entrance examination.
Language skills:
Anyone who did not obtain their university entrance qualification at a German-speaking institution must demonstrate German language proficiency at level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Proof of this can be provided, for example, by passing the ‘German as a Foreign Language’ (TestDaF) test at the Mittweida University Preparatory College with an average score of TDN 3 in all four sections, or by presenting an equivalent certificate.
The application period for the winter semester begins on 15 April and ends on 15 July. You can register online via the HSMW application portal. Once you have submitted all your documents, you can enrol. Once you have enrolled, your place at Mittweida is secured. For international applicants, the application deadline is 15 May, to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.
We’ve got you covered! Excellent study conditions, modern facilities and affordable rent allow you to focus fully on your studies. Tutorials are on hand to help with academic queries, the SAXEED start-up network supports you on your journey to developing your own business idea, and the Social Support Service offers assistance with specific life situations, such as childcare or caring for relatives. The campus also has plenty to offer: two music festivals a year, an active esports team and a vibrant student community. Discover just how diverse life in Mittweida is – at the Open Day or the Night of Science.
Related degree programmes
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, at the end of the third semester, you’ll choose one of the three promising specialisations: Laser Technology, 3D Printing or Biophotonics. To help you make your choice, you’ll get a taste of all the areas during the first few semesters and can bombard your lecturers with all sorts of questions.
As well as holding a general or subject-specific university entrance qualification, you should have a keen interest in science and technology. Specific advanced-level school subjects are not essential, but a solid foundation in mathematics and physics will make it much easier for you to get to grips with the fundamentals of engineering.
Due to subjects such as thermodynamics and electrodynamics, or advanced mathematics, the degree programme is considered mathematically and physically demanding and requires logical thinking and discipline. However, no specific prior knowledge is required, as all the fundamentals are systematically built up from the outset and the university supports you with preparatory courses.
Mittweida is home to the nation’s leading laser institute, the Mittweida University of Applied Sciences (LHM), which means you’ll have access to world-class technical facilities that are unrivalled by any other university in Germany. You’ll also benefit from extremely small practical groups – usually comprising just two or three people – and very personalised support, without the hassle of overcrowded lecture theatres.
