PhD Programme in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Dr-Ing and Dr rer pol) at University of Stuttgart University of Stuttgart in Germany

The Graduate School of Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (GSaME) at the University of Stuttgart offers a unique and innovative PhD programme leading to the degrees Dr-Ing and Dr rer pol. Located in Stuttgart, one of Europe’s most vibrant industrial regions, the programme is designed to connect research and qualification with close cooperation between science and industry. GSaME provides an interdisciplinary research environment, integrating university institutes and industry partners, and supports advanced manufacturing engineering for next-generation factories.

The programme covers a range of research clusters including Strategies and Factories' Development, Management of Global Manufacturing Networks, Information and Communication Technologies for Manufacturing, Equipment and Service Engineering, Material and Process Engineering, and Intelligent Manufacturing Systems. Students benefit from a dual scientific education system, alternating between theoretical and practical phases, including industrial internships and independent scientific work. The course organisation is autonomous, with its own curricular concept, selection procedures, and regulations for the doctoral degree.

International orientation is a key feature, with research training activities and projects balanced at 50/50. Most courses are taught in German, but participants may write their dissertation in either German or English. However, the defence is almost exclusively in German, and excellent command of both languages is mandatory. Industry internships are integrated into the doctoral programme, providing practical experience and exposure to best-practice projects.

Applicants must hold a university degree in engineering (mechanical or electrical), information or physical science, or business administration (Diplom or Master's degree). Additional requirements include a written personal statement, letters of recommendation from two well-known professors, and proof of English C1 and German C1 language proficiency. Online application is required, and applicants must conform to the doctoral regulations of the University of Stuttgart.

Funding opportunities are available within the university, including financial aid and scholarships. There are no tuition fees, but a semester contribution of approximately 200 EUR is required. Living expenses are estimated at 1,050 EUR per month. EU citizens may apply for state-guaranteed loans, while non-EU students must demonstrate sufficient finances for 12 months. Accommodation is available on campus, with furnished dorm rooms ranging from 320 EUR to 450 EUR per month.

The University of Stuttgart is renowned for its research-based teaching and interdisciplinary approach, fostering integration between engineering, natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences. The university supports international students and doctoral candidates with a range of services including welcome events, buddy programmes, tutors, cultural and linguistic preparation, pick-up service, specialist counselling, visa matters, and assistance with accommodation and registration procedures.

To apply, candidates should submit their application via the online platform and check the website for current deadlines. The programme offers structured research and supervision, research training, and discussion, preparing graduates for global challenges in manufacturing engineering and related fields.