Bachelor’s degree
Sustainable polymer technology

Plastics give a very important contribution to our daily lives – for everyone, in delivery of food, medical care, mobility, and all electronic devices. Nevertheless, many people primarily see plastics as a problem. This doesn't do plastics justice, because a sustainable approach to their use has long been possible – and that's precisely what the specialization options we'll now present to you are all about.

You're probably asking yourself now: should I specialize in "Plastics Engineering" or "Materials Engineering"? The answer depends primarily on where your interests and preferences lie.

In the "Plastics Engineering" programme, you can specialize more deeply in plastics: Here, processing technology and energy efficiency are often key focuses. You'll work extensively with machinery, but also explore sustainable design solutions, recycling, and the circular economy of plastics. This will allow you to explore the world of plastics in all its facets and develop into an expert in the sustainable use of plastics.

In the "Materials Engineering" programme, the focus is more strongly on materials technology. Plastics are one of the four major material classes here – alongside metals, glass/ceramics, and composites. You will examine materials and their sustainability aspects comprehensively, focusing on their properties and applications, and have additional elective options, for example, in the field of bio-based materials.

Your studies begin in the first two semesters with a solid engineering foundation - just like in a traditional mechanical engineering degree. You will take courses in engineering mechanics, basics of electrical engineering, thermodynamics, and mechanical systems, among others, thus developing a very good understanding of process engineering.

Later, you will deepen your knowledge about plastics: You will learn about their processing, get to know plastics as high-performance materials, and deal with design and simulation.

A particular focus is placed on sustainability. The modules are highlighted in light green in the study plan: topics such as recycling and the circular economy are firmly integrated into the curriculum. With modules like "life cycle assessment" and "plastic-related aspects of sustainability" - both mandatory - you will gain the necessary knowledge to design environmentally friendly plastic products, contributing to the sensible and responsible use of plastics.

Furthermore, you have many opportunities for individual selections: In the elective modules, you can set your own focus, for example, on lightweight construction or energy technology. You can also tailor your industrial project work and your bachelor's thesis specifically to the sustainable use of plastics.

In the Materials Engineering programme with a specialization in "Sustainable Polymers," you'll immerse yourself in the world of materials right from the start. Courses in materials engineering are already in the curriculum in the first two semesters, allowing you to build a solid foundation of knowledge early on.

As your studies progress, you will become familiar with the entire spectrum of materials: from metals and polymers to glass, ceramics, and fibre-reinforced composites. Wood-based materials also play a special role, being firmly integrated into the curriculum as an ecological and renewable alternative.

Sustainability is a key component: In the "Life Cycle Assessment" module, you will learn about evaluating environmental impacts. In a module on "Resource Conservation and Recycling," you will learn how materials can be used efficiently and responsibly.

From the 4th semester onwards, you largely design your own course of study: You choose your elective modules in your preferred subject area, decide on a project topic, find a company for your practical semester, and select a topic for your bachelor's thesis. You have the opportunity to focus specifically on the sustainable use of polymers and shape your own specialization.

Further information

Are you about to start your studies and interested in the field of "Sustainable Polymer Technology"? Then you're on the right track: This field of study revolves around the development, processing, and sustainable use of polymeric materials - with a clear focus on environmental compatibility and resource conservation.

Further information about the application process can be found on the websites of the "Plastics Engineering" and "Materials Engineering" degree programmes.

For all those who are already in the middle of their studies in "Sustainable Polymer Technology" and started their studies according to the study and examination regulations of 2022, there is important information below.

With the field of study "Sustainable Polymer Technology," you'll open up excellent career opportunities in a rapidly changing industry. Plastics are indispensable in modern industry – at the same time, the pressure is growing to design, use, and recycle products more sustainably. This is precisely where your expertise is needed.

Your knowledge is essential for companies: Legal frameworks are becoming increasingly stringent, for example through regulations on the circular economy, recycling quotas, or the reduction of CO₂ emissions. Companies must continuously adapt their materials, processes, and products - and are specifically seeking skilled professionals who can actively shape this transformation.

In addition, companies make voluntary commitments: Many businesses set themselves ambitious sustainability goals, invest in environmentally friendly solutions, and aim to make their value chains more transparent and resource-efficient. Public opinion also plays a major role – modern companies want to be perceived as responsible and future-oriented.

With your knowledge of sustainable polymer technology, you can make a significant contribution here: You develop innovative solutions, improve existing processes, and help ensure that the important and irreplaceable class of materials known as polymers is compatible with environmental goals. This means you are not only highly sought after for your expertise, but also actively shape our future.

If you're interested in studying Sustainable Polymer Technology with a strong focus on processing technologies, then apply for a place in the “Plastics Engineering” programme.

If materials engineering is more your focus, then specializing in Sustainable Polymers within the “Materials Engineering” programme is the right choice for you.

How can you apply for the degree programme?

• Apply only via uni-assist if you have obtained your higher education entrance qualification outside Germany
• Apply via the TH Rosenheim online application portal if you have obtained your higher education entrance in Germany

→ Application for a degree programme explained step by step

Tuition fees

Please note that tuition fees apply for international students from Non-EU countries.

→ More information

For questions regarding the content of the study field "Sustainable Polymer Technology", specific details of the "Plastics Engineering" and "Materials Engineering" programmes, or for academic advising, please contact Prof. Norbert Müller (Dean of Studies, "Plastics Engineering") or Prof. Amber Schneeweis (Dean of Studies, "Materials Engineering").

For general questions about application and admission, please contact the Central Student Advisory Service.

We'll help you with all the information you need. Contact us by E-Mail or phone – we look forward to supporting you on your journey into the world of plastics!