Work on the thesis is embedded in a comprehensive curriculum within an interdisciplinary research atmosphere. In this manner, it is not only the technical competence of the student within his/her special field that is supported and consolidated but also the ability to carry on an interdisciplinary dialog. The goal-oriented instruction in teamwork and regular presentation of students' own research results support education in communicative competence and thus quick integration into the field of practice.

The PhD programme consists of a three-year graduate curriculum combined with an experimental project. Seminars and courses are conducted in English; however, German courses are offered to our international students.

Mandatory are courses in which the programme of the individual projects is repeated and discussed by the graduate students. These courses support the transfer of knowledge on the theoretical and methodological level and foster interdisciplinary communication.

Elective courses are designed to deepen the knowledge in any of the main topic areas of the programme from basic technics to cutting-edge developments.

Optional courses comprise research-oriented special events or workshops as well as special courses for the improvement of foreign language proficiency and practical knowledge. Foreign students will be offered German courses.