HAN University

What you'll study

This master's focuses on the engineering of Cyber Physical Systems (CPS): distributed embedded devices, sensors and actuators integrated with control software, communication networks and data analytics. Teaching combines theory, hands-on lab work and applied projects to build skills in modelling, design, implementation and verification.

• Core technical modules: embedded systems design, real-time systems, control systems, sensors and actuator technologies, and networked communications for CPS.
• Software and systems engineering: model-based systems engineering (MBSE), software architecture for CPS, middleware for real-time and distributed systems, and systems integration.
• Dependability and security: safety analysis, formal verification and validation methods, secure-by-design principles for cyber-physical environments, and risk assessment for industrial control systems.
• Data and intelligence: sensor data processing, edge computing, basics of machine learning applied to CPS, and digital twins and simulation techniques.
• Project work and labs: multidisciplinary team projects with industrial cases, hands-on prototyping in electronics and embedded platforms, and integration tests in HAN’s practical labs.
• Research and professional skills: research methods, system architecture design, project management, ethics and human factors in CPS.
• Master’s thesis: an extended applied research or development project carried out individually or in a small team, often in collaboration with industry or an applied research group.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, mechatronics or a closely related technical discipline. Typical requirements include:

• A completed bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution in a relevant field.
• Demonstrable foundation in mathematics, programming and basic electronics or control theory.
• Evidence of English language proficiency if your prior education was not in English (accepted proofs include internationally recognised tests or equivalent institutional evidence).
• A CV, academic transcripts and a motivation letter explaining your background and reasons for applying.
• Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview or provide a technical portfolio of projects. Relevant work experience can strengthen an application, particularly for part-time or executive pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates gain skills that are in demand across multiple sectors where physical systems and digital control converge. Typical roles and career paths include:

• Systems Engineer or Systems Architect for embedded and distributed systems.
• Embedded Software Engineer and Firmware Developer.
• Control Systems Engineer and Automation Specialist for manufacturing, robotics and process industries.
• CPS/IoT Engineer focusing on sensor integration, edge computing and connectivity solutions.
• Security engineer for industrial control systems and critical infrastructure.
• R&D engineer or applied researcher in industry-led innovation projects and technology centres.
• Project manager or technical consultant in companies developing smart products, digital twins and Industry 4.0 solutions.

Why study at HAN University

HAN University of Applied Sciences emphasises applied learning with close ties to regional and national industry. The programme is designed to prepare graduates for immediate professional impact through:

• Practice-oriented teaching that combines laboratory work, prototyping facilities and real-world project collaborations with companies.
• Access to specialised labs and equipment for embedded systems, sensor testing and networked systems, supporting hands-on learning and thesis projects.
• Small class sizes and close supervision from lecturers with both academic and industry experience, enabling personalised guidance on projects and career planning.
• Strong links with regional industry, innovation hubs and applied research institutes that create internship, project and employment opportunities.
• An interdisciplinary approach that reflects the multi-domain nature of CPS, bringing together software, electronics, control and systems thinking.

These elements make HAN a suitable choice for students seeking an applied master’s that bridges academic knowledge and industry practice in cyber-physical systems engineering.