Engineering

CIEE supports qualified students who wish to pursue an academically rigorous independent research project while abroad. In order to enroll, students must submit a research proposal including a clearly defined research topic,
explanation of research plans, description of preparation in the planned area of study, list of resources, tentative outline of a final paper, and suggested schedule of progress. Students complete a total of 100-120 hours of
research and meet regularly with an advisor to complete an academically rigorous, ethically sound, and culturally appropriate research project and final research paper. Approval for participation in Directed Independent Research
must be obtained from CIEE and the student's home institution prior to arrival on the program.

This is an independent research course with research arranged between the student and faculty member. The specific research topics vary each term and are described on a special project form for each student. A substantial paper is required. The number of units varies with the student’s project, contact hours, and method of assessment, as defined on the student’s special study project form.

This course covers the functions and structures of the various elements that make up a machine, how to select components appropriately, and how components can affect and influence the machine design process. This course includes theoretical lectures on basic design theory, design cases, and various machine elements, as well as design and design practice of KIT for entering design competitions. 

This project-based course focuses on developing products to meet users’ latent needs. The course combines problem framing, problem solving, and product development. Students learn about the jobs-to-be-done (JTBD) framework, distinction between values and features, and product vision. Students develop tangible prototypes that work and test them with users. Topics include product presentation using analogy, metaphor, and product storytelling. Students work in teams in a studio environment and gain hands-on experience in product development.

This course offers an introduction to materials technology. Topics include: ferrous alloys; non-ferrous alloys; fundamentals of forming by casting; casting techniques; fundamentals of forming by plastic deformation; deformation techniques; powder technology; processing of ceramics; processing of polymers; processing of polymer matrix composites; fracture; fatigue; creep; friction and wear; corrosion of metals; welding; adhesives; surface treatments and coatings; non-destructive testing.

This course focuses on mathematical principles, observation methodologies, and calculation techniques essential for implementing various spatial technologies in both Earth and space observation endeavors. Specifically, it focuses on the utilization of GPS, GLONASS, and GALILEO Satellite Navigation Systems.

This course delves into the fundamental principles of Celestial Mechanics and current topics in Astrodynamics, using mathematical tools to analyze problems and apply strategies and techniques to achieve results.

This course offers a study of industrial robotics including morphology and robotic technologies, kinematic control, dynamic modeling, structure of the control system, programming of industrial robots, and industrial robotic applications.

The course starts with introductory lectures about the most important topics related to space technologies. In parallel, practical training is given to develop specific engineering skills in mechanics, electronics, and programming that is necessary to conduct the hands-on project. A CanSat is a small satellite in shape of a commercial beverage can that performs several measuring tasks. In this course, a CanSat is designed, built and tested in the field during a rocket launch. Therefore, all basics of topics related to exciting area of space technologies is imparted and practical skills for the development of a CanSat are trained. The theoretical units are supplemented by practical exercises. During project work units, parts of a CanSat are designed with supervision in smaller groups. During a launch campaign, the CanSat is tested under real conditions.Parts of the CanSat are developed in intensely supervised small groups. The course is supplemented by an excursion to space related companies and institutions in Berlin, during which the participants gain insight into facilities used for the development of satellites. Participants should have a general understanding of engineering.

This course offers an introduction to the tools for the estimation, detection, and prediction of discrete-time random signals. It is divided into three units: stochastic processes; estimation theory; detection theory.