New Bachelor's Degree Program in "Physical AI"

The new degree program combines the fields of computer science, artificial intelligence, and robotics. Students acquire the necessary skills to solve real-world problems, for example, using autonomous robots or data-driven applications. 

The program is designed to last seven semesters. A combined study and apprenticeship program (academic studies plus vocational training) and a program with an in-depth practical component (academic studies and intensive practical training) are also available. Students can begin the program at any time during the winter semester—with the first intake scheduled for fall 2026.

Program Director Prof. Dr. Michael Strohmeier from the Faculty of Computer Science says: “With the introduction of our new degree program, ‘Physical AI’, we are responding to growing demand—both from prospective students who are enthusiastic about future technologies and from companies urgently seeking qualified professionals. In doing so, we are creating a practical and highly relevant degree program at the intersection of AI and robotics, empowering our students to actively shape technological developments.”

During the first semesters of the program, students acquire a foundational understanding of computer science, mathematics, electrical engineering, and mechanics. Building on this foundation, they explore topics such as machine learning, intelligent algorithms, robotics, sensor technology, actuator technology, and embedded systems. There is a particular focus on programming robotic systems and using modern AI methods to solve complex tasks.

In the later semesters, students choose their own areas of specialization. Through required-elective modules, they select content that aligns with their interests and career goals. The curriculum is regularly updated and covers topics in computer science, robotics, and related disciplines.

The program is designed to be practice-oriented and interdisciplinary. Students work on concrete problems, develop their own solutions, and learn to think systematically and analytically. Questions regarding the responsible use of artificial intelligence are addressed in the courses. In the process, students become familiar with a wide range of applications, for example in industry, logistics, mobility, medicine, or service robotics. The 6th semester is designated as a practicum semester and is intended to provide students with initial insights into the professional application of the knowledge they have acquired. 

Thanks to a strong emphasis on practical training, students are well prepared to enter the workforce in a wide range of fields upon graduation. Career opportunities include, for example, working as an AI engineer in the development of applications that analyze data and enable automated decision-making, or as a robotics engineer in the design of robotic systems for industrial, logistics, or service applications. As software developers specializing in AI, future graduates will program intelligent applications and integrate AI into existing systems; as human-robot interaction designers, they will design user-friendly and safe ways for humans and robots to work together. Career opportunities also arise after graduation as an NLP Engineer—that is, in the development of systems that understand, process, or generate language. 

Physical AI (B.Sc.)