Civil Engineering / Co-op [Duales Studium]
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
Theory meets practice — right from the start
Would you like to study and do vocational training at the same time? Students of the co-operative bachelor's degree program in Civil Engineering, known as a Duales Studium, combine the two. They split their time between learning scientific principles at university and gaining practical experience at a company - and receive a salary.
Shape Your Own Future, Starting in Siegen
In this co-op program, you connect theory and practice from day one. On the university side, you work toward a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering while building a solid academic foundation in the field, and at the same time you apply what you learn directly in your partner company and earn your first salary. This early professional experience helps you understand your coursework more easily and gives you a strong head start for your career. The co-op program follows the structure of a conventional bachelor’s degree, but the first two semesters are extended over four semesters to integrate your practical training.
After completing study phase II and entering the specialization course (study phase III), the vocational training is also fully completed. Students then take either the HWK or IHK exam.
Quick Facts
-
Start of studies
Winter semester -
Standard period of study
8 semesters -
Separate application required
No -
Language of instruction
German
Preparation for your studies
Faculty IV offers a range of preparatory courses designed to help students make a smooth transition from school to university. These courses build on existing academic knowledge and provide targeted support for the start of your university program. Participation is voluntary, but highly recommended to ease the transition. The preparatory courses are open to all students in degree programs offered by the School of Science and Technology, ensuring everyone can benefit regardless of their chosen field.
Career Prospects
As a civil engineer, you are in demand for designing and constructing energy-efficient buildings, as well as ensuring safe infrastructure that withstands the impacts of climate change.
Graduates enjoy a broad range of career opportunities in engineering and planning firms, construction companies, public administration, water management, and transportation planning.
You can pursue a master’s degree that matches your interests and career goals, with options to complete the Master of Science after your bachelor’s or even part-time. Some programs also let you begin graduate modules during your final year, streamlining your path to both degrees.
In many cases, you will be taken on directly by the company where you have completed your cooperative training — meaning secure job prospects even before the end of your studies.
Advanced studies are also possible: the Master of Science can be completed afterwards or even part-time. It is also possible to combine your bachelor's and master's degrees by taking master's modules at the end of your bachelor's studies. Clarify with your training company at an early stage whether such a path is supported — many companies expressly encourage this additional qualification.
Curriculum and Specializations
What awaits you in the civil engineering (co-op) program
Study Phase I - Fundamentals
1st - 2nd semester (Co-Op: 1st - 4th semester)
Compulsory modules: Mathematics I and II, Engineering Geology and Soil Mechanics, Construction Mechanics, Building Materials Science and Construction Chemistry, Building Construction, Practical Geodesy and Geoinformation, Construction Mechanics I (Rigid Body Statics)
Study Phase II - Advanced Fundamentals
3rd - 4th semester (Co-op: 5th - 6th semester)
Compulsory modules: Construction Mechanics II/III (Elastostatics, Dynamics), Building Physics I, Structural Analysis I/II, Construction Management and Costing, Construction Law - Contract Management, Hydromechanics and Hydraulic Engineering, Geotechnics, Engineering Hydrology I, Solid Construction I, Traffic and Roads
Study section III - specialization - specialization
5th - 6th semester (Co-op: 7th - 8th semester)
Compulsory elective modules from the chosen specialization : Compulsory elective modules from a specialization of your choice: Structural Engineering, Traffic and Road Engineering, Water and Environment
Bachelor's thesis
You can find companies that offer the option of co-op studies (Duales Studium) on the following pages of the Construction Training and Further Education Center AWZ-Bau and Bauwirtschaft Südwestfalen www.bauwirtschaft-suedwestfalen.de. The process begins with the signing of a training contract between the company and the applicant, which must be presented when enrolling at the university.
Further information on the co=op study program in civil engineering.
If you do not have the German Abitur, but do have a technical college entrance qualification, or are already in the middle of your professional life, please review the details here.
Why choose a co-operative degree in civil engineering at the University of Siegen?
- One degree — two qualifications
- Secure income during your studies and early career entry
- Individual focus in the areas of "Water and Environment," "Structural Engineering," "Transport and Roads"
- Practical preparation for starting a career
- Personal support in small groups
- Top career prospects
