The programme has a modular structure and takes three semesters as a full-time student, or up to a maximum of six semesters part-time. The first semester takes place in Rosenheim. From the second semester onwards the programme may be completed in Biel or Rosenheim, depending on the choice of Master Research Unit. As teaching is organized into blocks, it is possible to study at either of the universities.
Students develop their knowledge through:
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Contact teaching / lectures |
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Coached and independent self-study |
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Taking part in research projects |
The course comprises fundamental scientific subjects and specialised topics relating to the selected Master Research Unit. In the third semester, the course is completed by the final project and the master thesis.
European Credit Transfer System
The Bern University of Applied Sciences and the Rosenheim University of Applied Sciences use the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) in accordance with the Bologna Treaty. One credit corresponds to around 30 hours of work. The full-time course accounts for 30 credits per semester, which corresponds to approximately 900 hours of work. The workload will be reduced accordingly for a part-time course. Generally, each successfully completed module will be awarded 5 credits. Successful completion of the master programme is based on attaining 90 credits.
Modules
The knowledge required for the Master of Engineering in Wood Technology is taught as various modules. These are divided into:
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Mathematic-scientific fundamentals |
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Research and development |
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Management research specialisation |
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Free choice of electives |
First semester
The modules in the first semester are either compulsory or compulsory elective. The course of studies can therefore be matched to the educational background and personal interests of individual students. The options available are listed below.
Mathematic-scientific fundamentals
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Statistics |
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Advanced Technical Mechanics |
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Free choice |
Research and Development
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Methods of scientific work |
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Research, Development and Technology Transfer |
Management
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Project Management |
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Wood Economics of Foreign Continents |
Second semester
The second semester is devoted to subject-specific learning. The student must select one of the following eight Master Research Units (MRUs) for personal in-depth study:
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Applied Building Physics and Building Control Technology |
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Lightweight and Drywall Construction and Interior Engineering |
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Product Development and Quality Control of Furniture |
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Management |
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Materials and Wood Technology |
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Production and Logistics |
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Timber and Composite Construction |
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Windows, Facades, Winter gardens, Doors and Gates |
At least 10 credits must be taken as part of the selected Master Research Unit. Students may in addition attend modules from other Master Research Units. The modules and courses are listed and described in the curriculum. Furthermore, students attend elective modules and modules in a foreign language.
Project thesis and Master thesis
The third semester comprises a project thesis (14 credits) and the master thesis (16 credits). The topics are derived from the research and development projects in the selected Master Research Unit. The project thesis and the master thesis can either relate to each other, be part of the same research project or deal with independent subjects.
The aim of the project thesis is for students to demonstrate that they are able to implement the knowledge and abilities gained during their studies within the framework of a scientific assignment.
The master thesis represents the conclusion of the programme. This is intended to give students the opportunity to prove their ability to work independently. They are expected to analyze an independent task from scientific perspectives, outline the way in which it should be approached and develop a solution. The results of the master thesis must be delivered in a final public presentation and then defended in a closed viva.
Advisors
During their studies students are mentored by personal advisors. These are drawn in general from either the lecturing staff or the research and development team in the selected Master Research Unit. They act as a first point of contact if an issue needs clarification or problems arise. Together with the students, advisors help to establish which modules should be studied and also supervise the master thesis.