Management of Product Development
The Master of Science in Management of Product Development at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) is a prestigious part-time international program designed for professionals aiming to expand their expertise. This degree combines academic depth with industry practice, providing students with hands-on experience in engineering, production, and product management. The program is structured across four semesters and admits students exclusively in the winter semester.
Located in Karlsruhe, a leading hub for engineering and technology in Germany, this master’s program emphasizes both innovation and technical excellence. With a strong focus on practical training and collaborative projects, students develop advanced skills in product development, simulation methods, agile management, and digital transformation. The course reflects Germany’s reputation for combining academic quality with professional relevance, preparing graduates for leadership roles in global engineering and manufacturing sectors.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Science (M.Sc.)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Location: Karlsruhe
- Study Type: Graduate (part-time, international)
- Admission semester: Winter semester only
- Area of study: Automation Technology, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Production Engineering, Mechatronics, Trade and Industry
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Product Development
- Introduction to Product Development & Engineering Principles
- Basics of Production and Manufacturing Systems
- CAD and Virtual Design Fundamentals
- Project Management & Teamwork
Semester 2 – Advanced Methods and Tools
- Agile Methods & Scrum in Product Development
- Simulation Methods (FEM, BEM)
- Process Planning & Portfolio Analysis
- Integrated Product Development Project I
Semester 3 – Specialization & Industry Practice
- Strategic Product Portfolio & Services
- Efficiency Increase & Target Costing in Product Development
- PLM, PDM, ERP, CRM & SCM Systems
- Integrated Product Development Project II (industry-partnered)
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis & Final Project
- Independent Research or Applied Thesis
- Production of a Final Product Development Project
- Presentation & Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for leadership roles in product development and management across a range of industries. Career paths include product development engineer, project manager, product portfolio manager, and innovation strategist. With Karlsruhe’s strong industrial network and HECTOR School’s industry partnerships, students gain excellent opportunities to connect with leading companies in machinery, automotive, electronics, and consumer goods sectors.
Why Choose This Program
The Master of Science in Management of Product Development combines academic excellence with practical industry experience. Offered by Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and HECTOR School of Engineering and Management, the program gives students access to experienced faculty, modern facilities, and strong connections with leading companies in machinery, automotive, electronics, and consumer goods sectors.
Students also develop managerial and leadership skills essential for driving innovation in product development. The program emphasizes agile methods, strategic product portfolio management, and efficient process planning, enabling graduates to take on roles such as project managers, product portfolio managers, and innovation strategists. With its international perspective and focus on real-world application, this program prepares students to succeed in global product development environments.
Contact Information
HECTOR School of Engineering and Management – Programme Contact
Schlossplatz 19, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
Tel: +49 721 608 47902
Fax: +49 721 608 47882
Email: info@hectorschool.com
International Office – KIT
Adenauerring 2, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
Tel: +49 721 608 45958
Fax: +49 721 608 42614
Email: contact@intl.kit.edu
