M.Sc. Computational Mechanics

Program Duration

4 Semesters (2 Years)

Credit Points

120

Beginning of Program

winter and summer semester

Description

The past few decades have seen rapid growth in the deployment of computer-assisted strategies to address practical problems. From construction and mechanical engineering disciplines such as finite element/volume calculation, to branches of medicine (e.g. biomechanics) and biology (e.g. evolution simulation), the list of areas where such strategies are applied is constantly expanding. This development is based on a fundamental concept that allows problems to be reliably analyzed using complex continuum mechanics modelling, numerical processes and experimental techniques. This concept, which comes under the heading of computational mechanics, bridges the gaps between theoretical model building, numerical processing and experimental reality.

Engineers aiming to work in this field need a solid grounding in its governing principles. The Computational Mechanics course teaches students the underlying theory needed to apply and advance complex computer-assisted procedures. This involves correct use of models and algorithms, the correct carrying out and interpretation of experiments, and the error-free use of application programs. These study aims involve the following elements:

• Model building:
  Linear and non-linear continuum mechanics, phenomenological materials theory, structural mechanics, materials science and homogenization procedures;
• Algorithms:
  Numerical discretization and solution methods of mechanics, finite element methods, optimization processes and program development;
• Experiments:
  Materials science, metrology and parameter identification of material models;
• Applications:
  Computer-assisted simulation in all areas of engineering science and engineering practice.

The course is therefore inter-disciplinary in nature, comprising elements of applied mechanics, engineering-focused materials technology and various wide-ranging engineering subjects. A basic grounding in theory provides the connection between the various areas studied.

The ultimate aim of the Computational Mechanics course is to train engineers who can recognize the application possibilities and the limits of the computational models as well as being able to independently apply and enhance the existing models. In so doing, this internationally oriented course will give students an in-depth education in the holistic treatment of mechanical problems relating to engineering science. This especially includes the interaction and integration of theoretical model building, numerical penetration, experimental verification and simulation-specific application.

Study Plan

Computational Mechanics (CM)

Schedule

Schedule of the actual semester

Campus

Campus Essen

Semester

The academic year is divided into semesters.

• winter semester: from October to March
• summer semester: from April to September

Lecture Period

In winter term the lectures usually start in mid-October and end in mid-February. The summer term lectures start usually in mid-April and finish in July. During the winter semester will be a break of two weeks for Christmas and New Year’s holidays.

Examination Period

The examination period always starts 1 week after the lecture period and lasts for approx. 5 weeks.

Social Contribution

All students are required to pay a social contribution of about 300 Euro per semester. The social contribution includes a semester ticket covering public transport in North-Rhine-Westphalia, subsidized meals in the canteen of the university and other services.

Costs of Living

We recommend budgeting around 800 to 1000 Euro per month for personal expenses.

Accommodation

Accommodation is available through the Student Services Office or on the private market. Rent for a single room in a student residence is approx. 300 Euro.

Student Advisory Service

Support Center for (International) Engineering Students
V13 S03 C58
Tel: +49(0)201 183-6500
e-mail: scies-essen@uni-due.de

Departmental Advisor

Dr. Alexander Schwarz

Student Council International Studies in Engineering

Website: http://www.uni-due.de/isefs
e-Mail: info@isefs.uni-due.de

Additional Information

Website: http://www.uni-due.de/ise/curriculum/m-cm.shtml

Accreditation

The University of Duisburg-Essen is system accredited.