FAQ - to CMS, TUBAF, Freiberg

1. General

Q: “Main sources about CMS@TUBAF?”

Q: “Why should I join the CMS master program at TUBAF?” 

A: CMS is a multidisciplinary program. The focus of CMS is on modeling of material properties at different length scales. You should join the CMS master program if:

  • You are interested in solving problems of physics/mechanics/materials science by using computers,
  • You want to understand how engineering problems can be modelled based on maths and physics and solved by computational methods,
  • You want to conduct multiscale research, from the atomistic nanoscale up to the length scales of large engineering structures,
  • You want to push theoretical concepts into real-world applications by “hands on” experience/approach,

Q: “Which skills should I bring along?” 

A: You should have some joy in scientific thinking, independent work and a kind of "computer affinity" and be interested in the behavior of materials, since CMS combines these two fields.

Q: “What are the skills that I will develop in the CMS at TUBAF, that I cannot acquire anywhere else?”

A: In most of other programs, you will mainly focus on simulation in one area . For example, you will become an expert on DFT as physicist, on MD as material scientist or on FEM as mechanical engineer. However, a very small number of programs will offer you the possibility to get familiar with more than two modeling frameworks and the techniques to couple them. By joining the CMS program at TUBAF, you will not only become familiar with two modeling frameworks, but you will have the opportunity to learn about and experience with modeling at different length scales.

We designed the program to allow you enough time to “learn by practice”, meaning you will gain a lot of experience in developing and applying your own numerical tool during the third semester.

Q: “Why should I study at TU Bergakademie Freiberg ?”

A: Here you find a great community of leading scientists on all relevant fields of materials research, modeling and simulation

  • You want to study in a small and friendly university
  • You want to have close contact to your teachers with individual supervision
  • You like to study in an international multicultural group of students
  • You want to have broad choice of materials and applications (semi-conductors, ceramics, piezoceramics, glass, concrete, geomaterials, several engineering metals and alloys.

Q: “Is it possible to finance my studies by working as a student worker in one of the university’s institutes?”

A: Students jobs directly associated with research projects in the institutes (max 40 h/month) are available on campus. Hereby, you learn and earn money. Note: You will not be able to receive a visa to enter Germany if you cannot finance your stay in Germany.

Q: “Is there any tuition fee for the CMS program at TUBAF?”

A: No. There is no tuition fee.

Q: “Do I need to have a prior German knowledge to apply for this program?”

A: No, German knowledge is no longer required to enrol in CMS. Of course, some German knowledge at the beginning of the studies is helpful.

 

2. About the program

Q: “What is special about the module “AI assisted Programming in Computational Materials and Mechanics”?”

A: This module explores the fascinating intersection of artificial intelligence, specifically the capabilities of Large Language Models (LLMs) like GPT-4, with computational materials science and mechanics. Students are provided with problem statements in these fields. Using advanced LLMs through tools like ChatGPT, students generate code and rigorously test it, ensuring reliable solutions. They then document the entire process in a scientific report. This ensures students stay ahead in this fast-evolving field, equipping them with cutting-edge tools to lead.

Q: “Where can I get to know more about the modules of the course?”

A: Module descriptions of the offered modules are available at https://cms-tubaf.de/CMS/international-master-in-computational-materials-science/module-description.html

Q: “Does this program offer studies at the Ph.D.-level as well?”

A: Not directly. The program graduates you as master. However, after the master thesis, some scholarships will be available to continue as PhD for another three years. This scholarships will be granted based on the student’s ranking at the end of master program. Furthermore, excellent students will get the opportunity to be affiliated as scientific co-worker in one of the institutes of the TUBAF or aligned research institutes, where you can qualify as PhD as well. As a matter of fact, several graduates go for a PhD, for a few examples see the testimonials of alumni in Alumni Experiences.

 

3. Application procedure

Q: “Am I eligible to apply for CMS during my bachelor's final year?”

A: No. You can apply for the program only after you have finished your bachelor degree.

Q: “Is there any application fee involved?”

A: No, there is no application fee.

Q: “Where can I apply?”

A: Application can be done through application portal. For more information visit https://tu-freiberg.de/en/master-computational-materials-science

Q: “Can an interested candidate with background in other engineering fields also apply?”

A: You should have a Bachelor degree in one of the following disciplines or equivalent study programs:

  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Materials Science and Engineering
  • Materials Science
  • Applied Physics
  • Theoretical Physics
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Applied Computer Science

Q: “I have completed my studies at an institution where the medium of instruction was English, do I still need to submit English proficiency test report?”

A: If you are a citizen of an English speaking country, that includes American Samoa, Australia, Canada (except the province of Quebec), Fiji, Ireland, Kenya, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Africa, United Kingdom, United States of America, or Zambia, the submission of the English Test requirement is waived. All other applicant citizens will need to submit a proof of English skills.

Q: “Can I submit my IELTS result instead of TOEFL, or give any other proof of my proficiency in English?”

A: YES

Q: “What is the TUBAF TOEFL code for sending my results?”

A: TUBAF TOEFL code is 8233. In addition add a copy of the TOEFL results in your application package as well.

Q: “Are there any hints with which I can brighten my chances for a successful admission?”

A: These documents are not mandatory to be submitted. However, if available it will help us in the decision process.

  • Do not refrain from providing results of any nationally recognized competitive exams (e.g., GATE for India) or internationally recognized competitive exams (e.g., GRE), etc.
  • Do not refrain from providing proofs of any certifications done or online courses, etc.
  • If possible, provide a certificate from your university stating the rank or percentile for your performance.

Q: “Are there some things which I should avoid in my application process?”

  • Motivation letters are meant to be precise (one-page) and to the point. Please avoid explaining in detail about all your projects, rather focus on your motivation to do CMS in TUBAF.
  • In CVs, software skills related to CMS program are encouraged. Experience with MS Office is not necessarily a skill for pursuing CMS.

Q: “Will I be informed/notified about the receipt of my application?”

A: Yes. You will receive an email at the address you have provided during the application process that acknowledges the receipt of your application.

Q: “When will I be notified if my application has been successful?”

A: The admissions office will let you know about the result of your application by the end of May (Non-EU citizens) or by end of August (EU citizens). There may be delays in application processing—we acknowledge the inconvenience and appreciate your patience. You will have one week to confirm your participation in CMS program at TUBAF after the receipt of the result of your application.

 

4. From being accepted to your start in CMS@TUBAF

Q: “I have been accepted to join the program, what should I do before traveling to Freiberg?”

Congratulations! We welcome you into the program, and are looking forward to working together. Before traveling to Freiberg you need to do the following:

  • 4.1. Confirm your intention to join program
  • 4.2. If you are not a German citizen, you need to apply for a Visa. (Please contact a German embassy or consulate in your home country to find out about visa requirements for students. Please apply for your visa early, as the issuing can take up to ten weeks. You are strongly warned against entering the country as a tourist. A tourist visa cannot be converted into student visa!)
  • 4.3. Arrange for your accommodation. Please make use of the information in https://tu-freiberg.de/en/service-and-counselling/living-Freiberg

 

5. Living in Freiberg

Most of the answers to your questions can be found on this page.

Q: “Are Freiberg and Freiburg the same city?“

A: No, they are two different cities. Freiberg is located in the east of Germany, Freiburg is in the south. Please find a map and more information about the arrival to Freiberg here.

Q: “How can I get an accommodation in Freiberg?“

A: Depending on your budget, you can either rent a single room / shared room in one of the university student houses or look for a private apartment in the city of Freiberg. Visit https://tu-freiberg.de/en/service-and-counselling/living-freiberg for more information.

Q: “What are the living expenses estimates in Freiberg?“

A: Living in Freiberg is relatively inexpensive compared to the western part of Germany with expenses estimated at the sum of 600 € per month.

Q: “How is the weather / temperature in Freiberg?“

A: Please find a table with the average temperature of Freiberg here.

 

FAQ - Enrolled Students

1. For Enrolled Students

Q: “External Master Thesis”

A: Guidline External Master Thesis CMS 2024