Best place to study computational material science- ICAMS, RUB

University of Kiel

8.2(1 Reviews)

Reason for choosing my college

• The ICAMS department at Ruhr University Bochum offers an excellent research-oriented program for students interested in computational material science (from the atomistic scale to the macroscopic scale). I genuinely wanted to study simulations of material in different scales, so I feel there isn't any other better University or Department than ICAMS/RUB for studying this. I would honestly recommend this program to someone really passionate about computational material science.

Kiel University of Applied Sciences

8.0(1 Reviews)

Reason for Rejection

• University of Kiel is more of an Engineering background course, whereas I had a degree in Natural Science, so I feel that was the main reason I couldn't get accepted into this University, but obviously, I would recommend a Master's course called "Master's in Materials Science and Business Administration" there as this gives much of diversity during the job search.

• Please look into the course structure of your Bachelor's and compare that to the requirements for enrollment in the Master's program. Even though your GPA is low, this really doesn't matter that much as it's only the requirement that should match.

• I chose Germany for its tuition-free education and strong engineering background. ICAMS at RUB is internationally recognized for computational material science research, offering programs in simulation methods, quantum mechanics of materials, thermodynamics, and much more. Bochum is quite beautiful student student-friendly city that offers affordable living.
• Strong industry and collaborations provide good career opportunities in German automotives and other research institutes. Highly recommended for research-focused students, though German language skills help significantly for daily life and jobs

• Classes:4-5 per week. Timings: 8 am-6 pm, typically 2-hour blocks. Class size: 15-25 students in specialized courses, 30-40 in core modules. Indian students: 15-20% of cohort (varies yearly).
• Study-timer: 3-5 hours daily for assignments, problem sets, and self-study; increases significantly during exam periods, project work, and final thesis work to finish the Master's course

• Faculty ratio: 1:8-10, highly approachable with open-door policies(But good to take an appointment beforehand while visiting some professors, as some of them will be extremely busy), Best faculties Prof. Ralf Drautz (Atomistic Modelling) for clarity in DFT, Prof. Alexander Hartmaier (micromechanics) connects theory to practical brilliance.
• Yes! Professors actively refer students for something called HiWi positions and full-time PhD(After completion of a master's course). But only if you get good grades/ have good grades

• Single campus in Bochum with modern facilities.
• Library: Extensive UB with late hours and study areas.
• Sports: Hochschulsport offers 100+ activities-football, climbing, and Bollywood Dance.
• Medical: On-campus health center. Events: Sommerfest, International Week, ASTA parties. Clubs: hiking clubs and cultural associations. Activities: BBQ, weekend trips to nearby cities with free public transportation for the students, a language exchange program, and many more.

• Popular jobs: HiWi/ research assistant position in ICAMS/Other Departments, Tutoring, Indian restaurants (in nearby cities like Dortmund/Essen), supermarkets (REWE/ALDI), cafes
• Pay: 12-16 Euros, depending on the job role and position. Difficulty: HiWi roles are moderately competitive-needs good grades, professor recommendations, and Campus jobs are easier with basic German (A2 level). Process: Email professors for HiWi, check the StudentenWerk Bochum portal for the Job bulletin, and use online platforms like Indeed

• TA/RA roles: 30-40% of students get a HiWi(research assistant) position at ICAMS or other departments. Pay: 12-15 Euros/hour. Moderately competitive but accessible.
• Off-campus: Tutoring, restaurants, retail at 15-18 Euros/hour. Work limit: 120 full days or 240 half days/year for student visa holders (20 h/week during semester, 40 during breaks). Easy to find part-time work with basic German skills

• Placement rate: 75-85% secure jobs within 6 months. Many continue in PhD programs (30-40%). Average salary: 45000-55000 Euros/year for the master's graduate in R&D roles. Job search: Through professor referrals, company websites, and networking with R&D people.
• Highest salary: 60000-70000 Euros/ year (automotive/tech consultancies). Lowest: 38000-42000 (smaller companies/startups). PhD positions pay around the same as the Lowest. Strong demand in the German manufacturing sector for ICAMS students