Embedded systems are computers that are integrated into a technical environment. They can be found in countless application areas and are ubiquitous today. Examples include the transportation sector (e.g., automobiles, airplanes, railroads), the medical sector, the energy sector, industrial automation, and home automation. In addition, embedded systems are also a component of consumer electronics and household appliances.

Embedded systems have led to breakthrough advances in functionality, safety, energy efficiency, environmental protection, and convenience. Today’s premium vehicles, for example, contain up to 100 controllers, and 90% of innovations in the automotive industry are based on electronics and embedded systems. Embedded systems range from simple devices with a single microcontroller to complex distributed systems that can be networked both locally and over large geographical distances.

Embedded systems often have high requirements for real-time capability, reliability, security, and functional safety. Even if individual components fail, the overall system must continue to provide the correct services. In general, the overall system must therefore be more reliable than its underlying components. This can be achieved through appropriate fault-tolerance mechanisms. In an aircraft equipped with “fly-by-wire” technology, for example, the correct functioning of the embedded system is essential for control and safety. In contrast to conventional control systems, the actuators (electric motors, hydraulics) are controlled exclusively by electrical signals from the embedded systems. Similarly, the embedded system in an autonomous vehicle, which is responsible for sensing environmental conditions and controlling the vehicle, must function correctly in all situations to prevent hazards to the occupants and the environment.

Job Profiles in the Field of Embedded Systems

The field of embedded systems deals with the architecture, design, validation, implementation, operation, and maintenance of computers, networks, sensors, and actuators in monitoring, steering, or control functions. Embedded systems represent an interdisciplinary field in which engineering issues, particularly from electrical engineering and information technology, interact with computer science. This knowledge is needed almost everywhere in research and development in industry and at universities, so graduates in the field of embedded systems face excellent career prospects.

Structure of the Study Program with Specialization in Embedded Systems

The study program with a specialization in Embedded Systems includes required modules on scientific methods, modules providing insights into current research projects at the University of Siegen, a project, and a master’s thesis. Topics from various areas of embedded systems can be selected (e.g., networked embedded systems, ubiquitous computing, embedded software, hardware architectures, embedded AI).

The core modules serve to deepen the computer science-oriented competencies acquired during the bachelor’s degree, with modules on Embedded Systems, Computer Architectures, and Computer Networks being particularly recommended.

The specialization modules are used for specialization based on individual interests. The Embedded Systems module catalog offers modules on application areas, development methods, reliability, hardware, and software for embedded systems.

In addition, up to two specialization modules from other specializations may be selected.

The curriculum and module list for the Embedded Systems specialization are available starting on page 11 of the examination regulations. Detailed module descriptions can be found later in the appendix.