Studies and Teaching
As a synergetic structural measure, the establishment of a new international cooperative master's program is being planned within the framework of SFB/TRR 339.
The international master's program “Integrated Digital Engineering and Asset Management for Smart Road Infrastructure (IDEAS)” will be offered jointly by Dresden University of Technology and RWTH Aachen University. The research- and application-oriented program attracts world-wide talented students. The degree program trains the specialists who will shape the roads of the future: digitally, sustainably, efficiently, and safely. Modern methods such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), simulation technologies, and concepts for sustainable infrastructure are central to the program. The start of the Master’s program is expected to be Winter Semester 2027.
A core objective of the program is to directly integrate cutting-edge research from TRR 339 into master’s-level education. This close relation allows students to have direct contact with researchers and ongoing scientific developments.
In this master's program, digital planning, construction, operation and maintenance management of road infrastructure in the entire life cycle will be taught. Main focuses will be on pavement technology, structural health monitoring, BIM, digital twins, sustainability, machine learning, and finite element modeling, providing a strongly interdisciplinary and future-oriented education. Environmental sustainability is embedded throughout the curriculum, including life-cycle assessment, climate-resilient infrastructure, and resource-efficient design.
IDEAS follows a hybrid teaching model: half of the students study in Dresden and half in Aachen with synchronized on-site and digital teaching formats. Courses are jointly taught by both universities, complemented by specialized elective lectures from international partners IIT Madras and the University of Brasília, fostering global collaboration and academic flexibility.
The program also addresses Germany’s growing shortage of skilled professionals in infrastructure and mobility engineering. By recruiting international students and preparing them for the German labor market through lectures from industrial partners, excursions (e.g. with BASt), and mandatory German language training up to B1 level, graduates will be remedy against the growing shortage of skilled engineers needed in Germany for construction, operation, maintenance and renovation of infrastructure.
Overall, the program leads beyond conventional engineering education by combining advanced technical training with real-world application, preparing graduates to actively shape the future of smart, digitalized, and sustainable road infrastructure.
Take a look at the official website of our IDEAS – Master’s program ideas-studies.de for a deeper insight.
