Dual to success!

Electrical power systems

Regenerative energy systems or smart grids and installations? You choose your specialization. In the KIA (sandwich-style) degree course, you will also acquire a vocational qualification in electrical engineering.

Zittau
Diplom engineer
10 semesters
NC-Free

About the degree program

Electrical energy is the backbone of our modern society and at the same time a key to overcoming the climate crisis. The dual Diplom degree course in electrical power systems will train you to become a specialist who actively helps shape this technology of the future. The KIA (sandwich-style) degree course combines in-depth engineering knowledge with practical work experience and, after five years, you will graduate with two valuable qualifications: a Diplom-Ingenieur (FH) and a recognized professional qualification in an electrical engineering profession.

Future-oriented skills for the energy transition

In this practice-oriented degree course, you will acquire comprehensive knowledge for the design of a sustainable energy supply:

  • Renewable energy generation (solar, wind, water)
  • Intelligent grid technology and grid control systems
  • High-voltage technology and transmission systems
  • Energy storage and electromobility
  • Protection and control technology for energy systems
  • Building automation and energy management
  • Digitalization and IT security in energy systems

Due to climate change, limited resources and the switch to renewable energies, our energy supply is facing profound changes. In this dynamic environment, your knowledge will make you a sought-after expert who develops innovative solutions for a reliable, sustainable and intelligent energy infrastructure. You will not only learn to understand existing systems, but also actively shape the decarbonization of the energy supply and the development of self-sufficient and autonomous energy concepts.

What is the KIA (sandwich-style) degree course?

The KIA (sandwich-style) degree course is very good for future students who want to combine theory and practice. In addition to theoretical knowledge, you will also acquire practical training and at the end of your studies you will not only receive a Diplom certificate, but also a skilled worker's certificate.

You have the choice, design your studies!

For the electrical power systems degree program , you can choose between:

a regular Diplom degree course and a dual Diplom degree course (KIA sandwich-style)

Study details

The most important facts at a glance:

Faculty:Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
Location:Zittau
Degree:Diplom-Ingenieur/-in (FH)
Standard period of study:10 semesters
ECTS points:240
Teaching language:German
Enrolment for:Winter semester
Application: 1.5. to 30.09.Start of studies: October
Admission restriction:admission-free (without NC) Details
No pre-study internshipto the student advisory service
Accreditation status:accredited

Course content

Your studies follow a well thought-out concept that optimally combines academic education and professional practice. In the first phase, you will acquire mathematical, scientific and electrical engineering fundamentals. You will alternate regularly between the university and the training company, combining theoretical knowledge directly with practical application and completing your first vocational qualification as an electronics technician after around two and a half years.

After this intensive foundation phase, you will specialize in one of two key areas: Renewable energy systems or smart grids and installations. You will deepen your knowledge in advanced subjects such as high-voltage technology, power generation and grid protection technology. An engineering internship gives you the opportunity to apply your knowledge in industrial practice. In the further course of your studies, you will deal with complex topics such as grid control systems, intelligent grid management and modern energy generation systems. Throughout your studies, you will have the opportunity to work on research projects carried out in cooperation with industry partners or at the university. The Diplom thesis is the culmination of your degree and demonstrates your ability to solve complex energy technology problems independently.


The semesters marked in light green (2.1 / 2.2 / 3.1 / 3.2) are part-time semesters. Here, the 2nd and 3rd semesters from the Diplom curriculum are each stretched over 2 semesters. You complete these in a 4-week rhythm at alternating learning locations (university/company). You will complete this study section with the 1st professional qualification (Chamber of Industry and Commerce examination). This results in a total of 10 semesters.

1st semester
  • Engineering Mathematics I
  • Fundamentals of Electrical Engineering - Stationary Processes
  • Fundamentals of computer science
  • Materials engineering
  • Engineering Mechanics
  • Physical fundamentals of mechanics & thermodynamics
2.1 Semester
  • Business administration
  • Basics of electronics
  • Basics of electrical engineering - electrical networks
2.2 Semester
  • Engineering Mathematics II
  • Fundamentals of Electrical Engineering - Signals and Systems
  • Measurement technology for engineers
  • Power electronics
3. 1 semester
  • Physics of Matter & Electromagnetic Waves
  • Communication networks
  • Object-oriented programming
3.2 Semester
  • Digital technology/micro-computing technology
  • Numerics/Simulation
  • Final examination for training
4th semester
  • Electrical machines and drives
  • Electromagnetic compatibility
  • Fundamentals of electrical transmission systems
  • High voltage technology
  • Control engineering I

Compulsory elective module

  • Safe and fault-tolerant systems
  • Solar energy technology
  • Control engineering I/programmable logic controllers
5th semester
  • Switchgear and high-current technology
  • Calculation of electrical networks
  • Protection technology
  • Project planning of electrical power systems
  • Compulsory elective area Interdisciplinary skills
  • Compulsory elective module 5th semester
    • Storage technologies/electromobility
    • IT security and data protection
    • Wired energy supply
    • Control systems/industrial data communication
6th semester
  • Engineering internship
7th semester
  • Measurement data acquisition and grid control systems
  • Operation of smart grids
  • Insulation coordination and earthing systems in energy technology
  • Building automation/energy management
  • Photovoltaics, wind and hydropower
  • Compulsory elective modules 7th semester
    • Intelligent grid management
    • Asset management and technical diagnostics
    • High-voltage measurement and insulation technology
    • Economic electrical energy supply
    • FEM in electrical engineering
8th semester
  • Final module (Diplom thesis and defense)

Career opportunities

Professional areas where you can get started

Network planning

Grid planning

You design and dimension electrical energy grids to meet the requirements of the energy transition. You calculate line capacities, simulate load flows and strategically plan grid expansion for renewable energies. Your analytical thinking and methodological expertise will ensure a reliable and future-proof power supply, even with a growing proportion of volatile energy sources.

Plant engineering

Plant engineering

You will implement complex energy systems from initial planning through to commissioning. You will draw up circuit diagrams, supervise installation and commission substations, switchgear and power plant components. Your precise working methods and technical understanding ensure that these critical infrastructures function reliably and safely.

Network management

Grid management

You monitor and control electrical energy grids in real time. You respond to faults, carry out switching operations and ensure a balance between generation and consumption. Your decision-making skills and sense of responsibility ensure the continuous security of supply and stability of the electricity grid around the clock.

Renewable energy generation

Renewable energy generation

You will develop and optimize systems for generating renewable energy. You plan solar and wind power plants, calculate yields and integrate these energy sources into existing supply structures. Your innovative spirit and commitment to sustainability will make a decisive contribution to the transformation of the energy system and climate protection.

Protection and control technology

Protection and control technology

You develop and implement systems to protect electrical installations and grids. You program protective relays, configure network control systems and ensure secure data transmission in critical infrastructures. Your technical expertise and safety awareness prevent major faults and damage to valuable equipment.

Energy consulting

Energy consulting

You analyse energy consumption and develop optimization concepts for industry, municipalities and private households. You carry out measurements, identify potential savings and advise on the integration of renewable energies. Your communication skills and holistic understanding will help customers to cover their energy requirements sustainably and economically.

You will find even more opportunities with us in other related degree programs:

FAQ

How does the dual study program work?

KIA is a dual course of study leading to a degree in engineering (Diplom-Ingenieur (FH)) after 5 years - with integrated vocational training (including IHK/HWK qualification). It combines theory and practice very intensively, creates an early bond with the future company and is therefore recommended by the state government of the Free State of Saxony and expressly demanded by companies.

Our future KIA students apply to a company that cooperates with the university.companyup to one year before the start of their studies, have a university entrance qualification (preferably an advanced course in physics and mathematics), are interested in scientific problems and have the necessary mobility.

The companies conclude a cooperation agreement with the university and contracts with the applicants for practical vocational training (vocational training contract or internship contract) or, in the case of KIApro, a qualification contract. In the case of KIApro, a qualification contract.

After completing a training contract or internship contract with the company, you must register at the university with your university entrance qualification (usually Abitur) - this is possible from mid-May.

The course usually begins on 01.09. with 4 weeks of basic practical training in the company. Depending on the degree program, you will then complete one to three semesters at the university. (course of studies)

The study-free periods between the semesters are reserved for practical training in the company. The training in the company takes place during the basic studies according to the study schedule (e.g. in a 4-week rotation between the company and the university) and ends with the examination before the responsible chamber (IHK or HWK). Separate vocational school lessons are not provided. The theoretical knowledge required for the vocational training is taught through the scheduled lectures and additional "vocational specifics" teaching units at the university. During the practical training period, you will be entitled to the collectively agreed leave and will receive a monthly salary from the company, which is based on the remuneration for apprentices.

After completing the vocational training, the remaining semesters are completed as full-time studies with part-time work (often with a study support contract from your company) and end with the desired university degree (Diplom-Ingenieur (FH) or Bachelor).

Accommodation at the Görlitz and Zittau study locations is provided byhalls of residenceavailable, we also have accommodation for you in theKIA housesshared rooms for you.


What apprenticeships are on offer?

  • Electrical systems fitter
  • Electronics technician for energy and building technology
  • Electronics technician for automation technology
  • Electronics technician for operating technology
  • Electronics technician for building and infrastructure systems
  • Electronics technician for devices and systems
  • Electronics technician for machines and drive technology
  • Electronics technician for information and telecommunications technology

About the advantages of the dual study program | KIA

Further information
Photo: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Uwe Schmidt
Fachstudienberatung
Prof. Dr.-Ing.
Uwe Schmidt
Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science'
02763 Zittau
Theodor-Körner-Allee 16
Building Z I, Room 1.34
1st floor
+49 3583 612-4307
Kristin Groß
Fachgebietskoordinator KIA
Dipl.-Wirtsch.-Ing. (FH)
Kristin Groß
Rectorate/Head Office University Development and Communication/Department KIA
02763 Zittau
Theodor-Körner-Allee 16
Building Z I, Room 1.48
1st floor
+49 3583 612-4811
Allgemeine Studienberatung
Madeleine Pohl
Division Studies and International Affairs
02763 Zittau
Th.-Körner-Allee 16
Building Z I, Room 0.21
First floor
+49 3583 612-3055
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Campus life

There's no shortage of partying here: shared flat party, festival, record session, student club. The only challenge you face is deciding what to do.

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Studying in the wild east?

Studying with us is different. Above all, better. Why? We have a family atmosphere. There are small study groups and the lecturers are always there for you. There is a close connection to practice in all degree courses. And finding affordable accommodation is no problem here.

There are many other reasons, such as university sports or the student representatives, clubs and societies. Campus life in Zittau and Görlitz, the wild east, is unique.

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You can finance your studies more easily with a part-time job or a job at the university. We offer students various opportunities for this, including a job after their studies:

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Equal opportunities and unrestricted participation are important to us. We support inclusion with various activities and advisory services, support options, compensation for disadvantages and accessibility.
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