"The pre-Master’s program gave me the theoretical foundation I needed to delve deeper into Automotive Technology"
During the final year of my Bachelor’s degree in Automotive Engineering at Fontys, I realized that I still wanted to learn more. I wanted to expand my knowledge of specific areas within automotive, particularly software and control. The deeper theoretical knowledge I was missing during my university of applied sciences program was available at a research university. That’s why choosing the pre-Master’s program in Automotive Technology at ºÚÁϸ£ÀûÍø was a logical next step for me.
What I particularly like about the program is its multidisciplinary nature. You combine knowledge from Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering, and you can take elective courses at other faculties. During the Sensing, Computing & Actuating course, for example, I discovered my interest in sensors, electrical circuits, and programming. During my Master’s, I continued to develop my knowledge in this area.
The transition from a university of applied sciences to a research university took some getting used to at first. The pace and level of difficulty are higher than at a university of applied sciences, and you’re expected to work more independently. Calculus was particularly challenging for me. What helped was establishing a consistent study routine from the start and keeping up with the theory and assignments. The pre-Master’s program really gives you a solid foundation that you’ll need for many of the courses that follow and later in your Master’s.
What positively surprised me was the personal support. You receive guidance from a study advisor and a student mentor. I particularly valued the contact with a senior student, as it gave me the opportunity to ask questions in an approachable way and exchange experiences.
My advice to students who are considering a pre-Master’s? Above all, follow your interests, because they’ll give you the motivation to keep going when things get challenging. Also, make use of the study guide and open days to discover which program is the right fit for you. After completing my Master’s, I want to work on mobile perception systems, not only in automotive technology but also in robotics!
Zohra Rasuli – pre-master Automotive Technology