Program of Study

Master Program Infrastructure Planning University of Stuttgart

Here you can find information about the MIP-program.

General Structure of the MIP Study Program

The general duration of the study program is four semesters (two years). The first three semesters are dedicated to the mandatory and elective modules. Students can choose a wide range of elective modules from the corresponding faculties associated with MIP.

A special part of the curriculum is the case study offered as a Mandatory Module in the third semester. In addition to the mandatory modules, students are required to complete German module / Key qualifications equivalent to 6 ECTS-credits. The fourth semester is dedicated to the Master´s Thesis. 

After successful completion of the program (120 ECTS),  students are awarded a Master of Science degree (MSc.). 

A detailed description of all modules (mandatory and elective) for in-depth informationcan be found in the module handbook.

Important Note on the Academic Profile

Master’s programs at German universities are typically research-oriented and place a strong emphasis on theoretical foundations, analytical methods, and scientific rigor. Teaching focuses on conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and the application of methods rather than on hands-on or vocational training. While case studies, exercises, and project work are included, students are generally expected to work independently and engage deeply with theory, research literature, and academic problem-solving.

Mandatory modules (first semester)

Water and Power Supply

This module introduces the fundamentals of water and energy supply systems and their role in modern societies. It covers energy demand, generation technologies, power plant applications, emission control, cooling systems, energy transport, storage, and market structures. In parallel, the module addresses water demand analysis, water sourcing, distribution networks, pumping systems, storage facilities, and the integrated planning and design of sustainable water supply systems.

Sanitary Engineering

This module provides an integrated overview of solid waste and wastewater management systems in urban environments. It covers waste generation, collection, recycling, and disposal, as well as the fundamentals of urban drainage, stormwater management, and municipal wastewater treatment processes. Environmental impacts, regulatory frameworks, and sustainable approaches such as ecological sanitation and natural treatment systems are key components of the module.

Regional and Urban Planning I

This module introduces key concepts, scales, and instruments of regional and urban planning. It addresses regional planning principles, spatial development models, indicators, and environmental and infrastructural considerations, as well as demographic change. In parallel, the module explores contemporary debates in urban development, including climate change, urban transformation, participation, inclusion, resilience, and the strategic and normative frameworks guiding planning practice.


General Aspects of Infrastructure Planning

This module introduces integrated infrastructure planning from a multidisciplinary perspective, linking regional and urban planning with water, landscape, and transport planning. It presents key methodologies and practical insights and develops academic skills such as scientific writing and presentations. The module also provides a foundation in urban economics, enabling students to analyze spatial economic processes, evaluate policy interventions, and understand the role of institutions and governance in urban development.

Statistics and GIS

This module introduces fundamental methods for data analysis, statistics, and spatial information systems. Students learn how to prepare, visualize, and evaluate environmental data, apply descriptive statistics, regression analysis, and basic concepts of probability and simulation. In addition, the module provides an introduction to GIS technologies, enabling students to manage, analyze, and exchange spatial data using standard software tools and database-supported systems.

 

Further mandatory modules

Regional and Urban Planning II

This module deepens knowledge of analytical and decision-making methods in regional and urban planning. It covers multi-criteria decision tools, indicator-based monitoring and evaluation, environmental and regional impact assessment, demand forecasting, land suitability analysis, and climate vulnerability and risk analysis. The other part of the module provides an overview of urban planning frameworks and instruments, including spatial planning levels, urban development processes, spatial analysis, urban renewal strategies, land use and implementation planning, integrated planning tools, SWOT analysis, and approaches to urban sustainability and monitoring.

Transport Planning and Modelling

This module introduces core concepts of transport planning and modelling, including the planning process, analysis of transport supply and demand, and the relationship between land use and travel behaviour. It covers key methods such as travel demand forecasting, discrete choice models, trip distribution, mode choice, and traffic assignment, as well as the design of transport systems (roads, public transport, rail, waterways, and airports) and urban transport strategies. It is complemented by practical exercises.

Environmental Aspects

This module introduces key environmental factors relevant to infrastructure planning, including natural resources, ecosystems, air and water systems, and the impacts of land use such as urbanisation and agriculture, as well as principles of ecological landscape design. In a complementary seminar, students explore environmental impact assessment, focusing on the evaluation of planning strategies and projects, legal frameworks, modelling methods, and practical tools, supported by presentations or case study work across various infrastructure sectors.

Case Study (12 ECTS)

This module applies integrated infrastructure planning in a real-world context. Students work in groups on a specific study area, developing a conceptual framework and gaining practical experience in data processing and analysis. Guided by an interdisciplinary team, they complete a series of deliverables (e.g. reports, maps, posters) structured in phases: defining objectives and spatial development concepts, conducting large-scale planning and land suitability analysis with a focus on public transport, and finalizing an urban master plan including transport planning.

Program structure - Overview:

 

Module
ECTS-credits required

Mandatory modules

60 ECTS

Elective modules

24 ECTS

German module  / Key qualifications

6 ECTS

Master Thesis

30 ECTS

Module List

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