We created StudyinEurope.eu to support students like you — with clear information, personalized guidance, and a space to explore calmly. No rankings. No noise. Just tools that help — whether you're browsing on your own or getting help from Leonardo, our AI European Study Advisor.
Automotive engineering in Europe covers the design and development of vehicles as integrated systems — not just engines, but chassis, electronics, software, and increasingly the battery and power management systems that define modern electric drivetrains.
Automotive Engineering programs in Europe from 5 universities · updated for 2026
Jump to:
Search Automotive Engineering programs
Leonardo
I can help you understand and compare these programs.
The EV transition has shifted the discipline's center of gravity: battery thermal management, high-voltage system safety, and power electronics have become as important as combustion optimization used to be, while functional safety under ISO 26262 now permeates nearly every subsystem. The degree is applied and project-based — expect CAD-intensive design work, simulation (FEA, CFD, multi-body dynamics), and where universities have the facilities, hands-on prototype or test-track work. Europe's automotive manufacturing sector is one of the world's largest, meaning the supply of industry-connected programs and cooperative placements is genuine. Students looking for deep theoretical physics will find this too applied; students who want to see their work turn into real components on real vehicles will find the feedback loop satisfying.
Powertrain engineering: internal combustion combustion system optimization, hybrid architectures, and EV drivetrain design
Battery systems: cell selection, pack thermal management, and battery management system (BMS) design
Functional safety and homologation: ISO 26262 ASIL classification, FMEA, and EU vehicle type-approval procedures
ADAS and sensor integration: radar, lidar, camera fusion architectures, and AUTOSAR software frameworks
Why Europe for Automotive Engineering?
What makes European programs distinctive for this specialization
Europe is home to the world's most regulated and sophisticated automotive market, which directly shapes the skills employers value. EU type-approval regulations, Euro NCAP safety standards, and the CO₂ fleet targets set by the European Commission create a steady demand for engineers who understand both vehicle systems and the compliance frameworks surrounding them. The EU's push toward zero-emission vehicles and the European Battery Alliance — backed by Horizon Europe funding — have created new research and industrial roles specifically in battery technology and sustainable drivetrains. The network of OEMs and tier-one suppliers across the continent means that a qualification earned in one country is practically portable across the industry. The Bologna Process also means master's credentials are formally recognized across 48 countries, supporting geographic mobility within the industry.
Where It Leads
Career paths for Automotive Engineering graduates
Vehicle dynamics engineer at an OEM or tier-one supplier — tuning suspension, steering, and chassis systems through simulation and physical validation testing
Battery systems engineer at an EV manufacturer or battery supplier — managing cell selection, thermal design, and BMS calibration for high-voltage packs
Functional safety engineer at an automotive tier-one — performing ISO 26262 safety analysis and managing ASIL decomposition across electronic control unit development
Homologation engineer at a vehicle manufacturer — coordinating type-approval submissions and compliance testing against EU safety and emissions regulations
Salary & Career Outcomes
What graduates in this area realistically earn
€42,000 – €65,000 (entry-level; EV and ADAS specializations attract premiums)Typical Salary Range
How to Break In
What programs and employers are actually looking for
Most automotive engineering master's programs expect a mechanical or electrical engineering bachelor's with coursework in dynamics or control systems. Practical experience through an internship or placement at an OEM, tier-one, or engineering service provider is expected by most employers and is often built into the degree structure in Germany and other countries. CAD and simulation skills — SolidWorks, CATIA, MATLAB/Simulink — should be demonstrable through coursework projects. For roles in battery or ADAS engineering, additional coursework in power electronics or signal processing strengthens applications. German-language ability is useful but not required at multinationals. EU students benefit from cooperative programs between universities and manufacturers that provide structured work placements as part of the degree.
Programs Covering Automotive Engineering
Programs with strong content in this specialization, from verified European sources
Advanced Automotive Engineering
University of Bologna Bologna, Italy
Master's English 2 years
EU: €1,200 Per yearNon-EU: €1,400
Tap to see program details
Advanced Automotive Engineering University of Bologna
This master's program in Advanced Automotive Engineering offers multiple specialized tracks, including Advanced Powertrain, Advanced Sportscar Manufacturing, and Off-Highway Vehicle Engineering. Each track shares a foundation in vehicle systems, manufacturing technologies, mechanical vibrations, and electronic systems, with coursework spread across two campuses. Specializations feature targeted modules such as propulsion systems, hybrid vehicle modeling, robotics, supply chain management, and testing for off-highway or sportscar applications. Students enhance their learning with elective and freely chosen technical courses, alongside traineeships and a final thesis. The program is highly interdisciplinary, with strong industry relevance.
Admission to this master's program requires a completed undergraduate degree or an equivalent foreign qualification, recognized as suitable. Candidates must have earned at least 85 university credits in relevant subject areas, including mathematics, physics, computer science, statistics, chemistry, and various fields of industrial and information engineering. Specific credit minimums are set for foundational scientific areas and engineering disciplines. Admission also depends on passing a personal preparation assessment, which may include evaluation of academic records and/or a written or oral test. Certified English language proficiency at CEFR B2 level is mandatory. The program has a limited number of available places, filled through a competitive selection process. EU students typically pay around €1,200/year based on family income. Non-EU students usually pay a fixed fee of about €1,400/year. Check with the university for your exact fee.
Engineering Technology, Mechanics and Mechanical Engineering
Riga Technical University Riga, Latvia
Master's English 2 years
EU: €5,310 Per yearNon-EU: €5,310
Tap to see program details
Engineering Technology, Mechanics and Mechanical Engineering Riga Technical University
This master's program emphasizes advanced technical knowledge and applied problem-solving. Core subjects include thermodynamics, vibration analysis, machine design, composite materials, and optimization methods. Students can specialize through elective courses in areas such as biomechanics, medical equipment design, vehicle mechanics, finite element analysis, robotics, and automation. The program also includes modules in social sciences, such as psychology, sociology, and entrepreneurship, to support leadership and communication skills. A final thesis allows for independent research in a chosen field of specialization.
To be admitted to this master's program, applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, mechanics, metal processing, or a closely related engineering field. Additionally, they must demonstrate English language proficiency at a level equivalent to CEFR B2. This ensures that students have the technical and language skills necessary to engage fully with the program content.
FH Aachen – University of Applied Sciences Aachen, Germany
Master's English 1,5 years
Tap to see program details
International Automotive Engineering FH Aachen – University of Applied Sciences
This master's program offers in-depth education in automotive engineering with options to specialize or follow a general track. Students begin with modules in general engineering and automotive-specific areas like vehicle development, propulsion, and interior design. Specialization tracks include Automotive Body Engineering, focusing on vehicle structure, safety, and materials; Automotive Propulsion Engineering, centered on combustion and electric systems and environmental impact; Computational Aided Engineering Automotive, emphasizing simulation and ergonomics; and a general track for broader competence. Coursework includes modules on powertrain calibration, acoustics, simulation, global homologation, and advanced design methods. A three-semester standard pathway culminates in a thesis, while a four-semester double degree option with study in Australia offers a research project and dual qualification.
Applicants must hold a completed degree in automotive and drive engineering or mechanical engineering to qualify for this master's program. For international applicants from outside the European Higher Education Area, admission is based equally on their final university grade and GRE score, with a minimum of the 81st percentile in the Quantitative section of the GRE. Those from China, India, or Vietnam must also provide an APS certificate. All applicants whose native language is not English must prove English proficiency through TOEFL (minimum 92 iBT or 580 PBT), IELTS (minimum 6.5), or a Cambridge FCE (Grade C), unless they studied at an English-speaking institution. Additionally, German language skills at A2 level are required for program entry, and B1 level is mandatory for registering the master's thesis.
This master's program offers advanced training in mechanical engineering with five specialization modules tailored to different industries. The Manufacturing & Management module focuses on production systems, logistics, and industrial organization. Mechatronics & Robotics combines control systems, sensors, and automation. Thermotechnical Sciences covers heat transfer, energy conversion, and fluid dynamics. Aero & Space Engineering includes aerodynamics, propulsion, and spacecraft design. Automotive Engineering emphasizes vehicle dynamics, powertrain systems, and mobility technology. The curriculum combines core engineering courses with technical electives, lab work, and a master's thesis, providing students with both theoretical understanding and applied design skills for careers in high-tech industries.
To apply for this master's program, candidates must hold a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. Applicants must submit a GRE score unless they earned their degree in an EEA country, the UK, or Switzerland. English proficiency must be demonstrated through IELTS (minimum 7.0 overall, no subscore under 6.5), TOEFL iBT (minimum 94, no subscore under 22), or Cambridge CAE (minimum 185, no subscore under 176). Exemptions apply for those who completed their education in English in Australia, English-speaking Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, or the USA. All required documents must be submitted through the KU Leuven Admissions Office for applicants from outside the Flemish Community.
Electromechanical Engineering Technology KU Leuven
This master's program provides advanced training in electromechanical engineering technology, combining strong technical knowledge with professional and innovation skills. Students choose one option—Management or Mechatronics—and one specialization focus. Focus areas include Advanced Robotics, Clinical Engineering, Digital and Lightweight Manufacturing, Ecotechnologies, and Automotive Engineering. Each pathway includes a tailored master's thesis, practical coursework in subjects like control systems, robotics, and lightweight materials, and optional short international courses or internships. Students also take professional development modules in engineering ethics, communication, and teamwork.
To apply for this master’s program, candidates must hold an honors bachelor’s degree (B.Sc., B.Tech., B.Eng., etc.) or a master’s degree in a related field, with a strong grounding in mathematics and science, as well as a clear interest in the major area of study. English proficiency is required via one of the following: TOEFL iBT (min. 85, subscores ≥ 20), IELTS Academic (min. 6.5, subscores ≥ 6.0), or Cambridge CAE/CPE (min. 176, subscores ≥ 169). Applicants who earned a fully English-taught degree in Australia, Canada (English-speaking), Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, the USA, or who hold a Flemish secondary education diploma are exempt. While a GRE is not mandatory, it is strongly encouraged.
The admission process involves two stages: initial review by the Admissions Office, followed by evaluation by the program's Board. If your background aligns well with the program, you’ll be granted direct entry. If minor gaps are identified, you may be offered a preparatory program before starting the master’s degree. Applicants whose background doesn’t sufficiently match the program's requirements will unfortunately be declined.
Bern University of Applied Sciences Zollikofen, Switzerland
Master's English 1,5 years
EU: €1,020 Per semesterNon-EU: €1,020
Tap to see program details
Energy and Environment Bern University of Applied Sciences
This master's program focuses on developing advanced engineering expertise for sustainable energy and environmental systems. Students choose a specialization in areas such as energy storage, electricity supply networks, power electronics, automotive engineering, photovoltaic systems, or sustainable system development. The curriculum includes foundation modules in technical sciences, theoretical principles, and applied context, covering topics like thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, environmental technologies, optimization, and project management. Specialized training includes practical project work and a master's thesis, amounting to 54 ECTS credits. Supplementary seminars and events offer deeper insight into advanced topics that align with the chosen focus area.
To be eligible for this master's program, applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in energy and environmental systems technology, electrical or mechanical engineering, automotive or system engineering, materials and process engineering, or a comparable technical or business field. Admission typically requires a GPA of at least 60 (BFH scale) or 5.0 (Swiss scale), or an equivalent strong academic performance from abroad. Candidates with slightly lower GPAs may still be considered if they have relevant work experience and demonstrate strong motivation. Depending on prior education, applicants may need to complete 9 to 15 ECTS credits in bachelor's-level courses alongside the master's program. Professional experience in industrial, technical, or economic fields is expected. Applicants must also demonstrate English proficiency at C1 level and, if relevant, German or French at B2 level.
Leonardo
