Prospective students

Then you've come to the right place!

Perfect! 🌱🌍
Wood is one of the most environmentally friendly materials of all. In Wood Technology and Wood-based Bioeconomy, you will learn how to use natural materials efficiently and in a resource-saving way.

Did you know, for example, that paper recycling is one of the most efficient cycles in the world?
Or that Germany has the largest absolute wood reserves in Europe with 3.7 billion^m3 (as of 2019)? And that our wood reserves are still growing every year?

💡 Here you can find out how wood can be used sustainably and intelligently as a resource , how production processes can be optimized and how environmentally harmful substances can be sensibly replaced by this renewable material.
🌱F or anyone who doesn't just want to live sustainability, but wants to shape it.

📚 A fter a two-year foundation course in Process Engineering and Natural Materials Technology, you will start your three-year degree course with us and become a wood or paper engineer in process engineering!
🎓 The only degree course of its kind in Germany - with the best prospects for a green future.

💡 Curious now? Then apply now!

Then you've come to the right place! With us, you can study for your diploma degree in wood technology and further expand your specialist knowledge. You will enter the postgraduate diploma program directly and become part of the HFT!

Then take your passion for woodworking to the next level!
During your studies, you will learn how your practical skills come together with technical knowledge, digital methods 💻 and sustainability 🌳.
⚙️ You will understand how machines work, how processes are optimized and how products are created - from concept to production. You will also have the opportunity to get a taste of paper technology.

👉 Your technical background is a real advantage!

📚 After a two-year foundation course in Process Engineering and Natural Materials Technology, you will begin your three-year main course at the Chair of Wood Technology and Wood-based Bioeconomy, where all aspects of wood and fiber technology are covered.
🔍 Starting with the anatomy of wood, through the production and processing of wood-based materials, to the construction of furniture using the latest manufacturing technologies and strategies - you will learn about the entire value chain of wood, including all the anatomical, chemical and physical characteristics of this natural material.

💡 Your training knowledge will help you get started - but don't worry: we delve so deeply into the subject matter that it won't be boring!

🎓 The whole thing is part of the only diploma course of its kind in Germany - well-founded, practical and future-oriented!

Then you've come to the right place!

Studying wood and fiber material technology combines sound technical knowledge with practical application. It gives you the opportunity to play an active role in the development of new materials, sustainable production technologies and future-proof products.

From resource-conserving processing and intelligent material combinations to the digitalization of production: you will become part of an industry that is in global demand and provides real solutions for the challenges of tomorrow. Regardless of whether you want to work in industry, research or sustainability management later on - this degree course will give you a strong foundation for your professional future.

🎓 Unique range of courses:
TU Dresden offers an engineering degree in process engineering with a specialization in wood and paper technology. This specialization is unique in Germany and provides you with a sound education with great practical relevance.

🤝 Networked right from the start
Studying means more than just attending lectures - with us, you are part of a committed community. Through various formats, you will establish contacts with fellow students, lecturers and industry representatives at an early stage.

A special highlight, for example, is the annual "Round Table" before Christmas, where students from all semesters can exchange ideas and network in a relaxed atmosphere.

The Academic Paper Engineering Association (APV) also brings you into contact with the industry: You will get to know exciting companies - and often potential employers - at regular industry lectures followed by dinner. This creates valuable connections during your studies that will accompany you on your future career path.

🏛 Scientifically networked:
Teaching is closely linked to non-university research institutions, such as the Institute of Wood Technology Dresden (IHD) and the PTS - Institut für Fasern und Papier gGmbH. This means you benefit directly from the latest research knowledge and innovative technology.

🌐 Synergies that only exist here:
TU Dresden is the only university in Germany where wood and paper technology are brought together in a research-oriented cooperation - this creates ideal conditions for innovative projects and interdisciplinary work.

🌍 Your network for the future
Our Chair is actively involved in outstanding research networks, including:

• ECEMP - European Center for Emerging Materials and Processes Dresden (ESF/SMWK)

• MERGE - Technologies for Multifunctional Lightweight Structures (DFG/TU Chemnitz)

• ZINT - Center for Integrated Natural Materials Technology (TU Dresden)

• LignoSax e. V. - Competence Cluster Forest-Wood-Paper (Dresden)

• igeL e. V. - Interest Group Lightweight Construction (Lemgo)

Whether research, practice or career start - wood and fiber materials engineering at TU Dresden brings you together with the right people and ideas.

Studying in Dresden

If you would like to find out more about where to study, take a look here

© Crispin-Iven Mokry

General Procedure

The master’s program in Process Engineering and Natural Materials Technology offers a diverse curriculum with a clear structure: After the two-year foundational phase, you’ll choose a specialization in the advanced phase that aligns with your interests. If you’re fascinated by the world of wood, paper, and modern materials, the specialization
Wood Technology and Wood-Based Bioeconomy (HTB) is the perfect fit for you. Alternatively, you can choose from exciting specializations such as general process engineering, bioprocess engineering, chemical engineering, or food engineering. Learn more about the foundational phase and the various specializations here .

Specialization in Wood Technology and Wood-Based Bioeconomy (HTB)

The HTB specialization combines engineering expertise with in-depth knowledge of materials. The focus is on practical instruction and a scientifically grounded deep dive into these topics. Our curriculum is tailored in a targeted manner to the needs of the wood and paper industries and also fosters key competencies that optimally prepare our graduates for their professional careers.

A real highlight of our program: By choosing your specialization subjects, you can become a wood technologist or a paper technologist in a targeted manner—or, if you’d rather not commit to one, combine both fields. This allows you to tailor your studies entirely to your interests and remain flexible in your professional development.

Foundation Phase (Semesters 1–4)

During the foundational studies, you’ll learn the theoretical fundamentals in various technical and natural science subjects. Your course schedule will include the following subjects:

• Mathematics
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• Engineering Mechanics
• Business Administration
• Design Engineering
• Language Proficiency
• Electrical Engineering
• Kinematic and Kinetic Analysis
• Process and Natural Products Engineering
• Materials Science
• Thermodynamics
• Fluid Mechanics
• Processing Machinery/Apparatus Engineering

Advanced Studies: 5th and 6th Semesters

You will learn about wood and paper as materials. This is covered in the following courses:

• Basic Processes of the Production and Processing of Wood-Based Materials and Paper
• Technology of Wood-Based Material and Paper Production and Processing
• Physical Fundamentals of Wood Technology/Paper Technology
• Chemical Fundamentals of Wood Technology/Fiber Materials Technology
• Wood anatomy
• Thermal Process Engineering
• Measurement and Automation Technology

Specialized Internship, 7th Semester

15 weeks or less (provided the relevant prerequisites are met)

Advanced Studies, 8th and 9th Semesters

You can deepen your knowledge based on your strengths and interests. The following elective courses are available for you to choose from:

• Furniture and Building Component Design
• Wood Preservation
• Wood Drying and Modification
• Research Projects in Wood Technology
• Coating and Adhesive Technology
• Wood Construction
• Separation Technology
• Fundamentals of the Design Process and Tools
• Fundamentals of Design
• Designing with Plastics
• Manufacturing of Fiber-Reinforced Composite Structures
• Product Manufacturing

Thesis, 10th Semester

For your thesis, you can choose a topic from research or industry in collaboration with a company. After submission, you must give a public and coherent presentation and discussion of your findings.

Awarding of the diploma and diploma certificate 🎓

Graduation Ceremony 🚀

In the Process Engineering and Natural Materials Technology degree program, we attach great importance to combining theory and practice. With us, it's not just about learning in the lecture hall - you have numerous opportunities to apply your knowledge directly and set your own priorities.

🛠 Specialist internship in industry | 15 weeks

Your entry into the professional world during your studies
As part of your studies, you will complete a specialist internship that will give you a direct insight into everyday working life. Whether in an industrial environment, in research institutions or even abroad - you can deepen your interests in a targeted manner and make valuable contacts for your later career entry. Many of our students also use this phase to find topics for their final thesis or to lay the foundations for their future job.

🔬 Laboratory internships and project work

Try things out for yourself instead of just listening
In our modern laboratories, theory becomes practice: here you will analyze materials, optimize processes and carry out your own experiments - often in small teams and with direct reference to real issues. In addition, you will regularly work on projects during your studies in which you develop and present solutions independently. This practical experience not only strengthens your specialist knowledge, but also your ability to work in a team, creativity and independence.

👩‍🔬 Work as a Student Assistant (SHK)

Get an early taste, experience real research
As a Student Assistant, you are right in the middle of the action: You support research projects, work directly with scientists and gain valuable practical experience alongside your studies. Especially cool: You can also become active during your undergraduate studies and gain initial insights into the specializations. There is a high demand for committed SHKs - just ask, we look forward to hearing from you and are sure to find the right project!
Please contact the office.

🌍 Excursions

Out of the lecture hall, into practice
What you learn during your studies, you will also see in the real world: regular internships and excursions take you directly into industry. Our annual excursion is a real highlight - you will visit companies all over Germany and even in other European countries. On site, you will not only learn about production processes, but also make valuable contacts with experts from the industry. And you'll also get to know your fellow students even better.

🌳🍄🐜 Specialist training in wood preservation in construction

Additional qualification with a future
As a supplement to your studies, you can take part in the "Wood Protection in Construction" specialist training course - offered by the Sächsischer Holzschutzverband e.V.- at a reduced price. In several compact modules, you will learn everything you need to know: from the basics of timber construction and typical damage to protection and restoration measures - including a construction site excursion.
Upon completion, you will receive a recognized certificate, which is indispensable for activities in the wood protection sector due to the introduction of DIN 68800 Parts 1 and 2. Participation also entitles you to membership of the association - a real plus for your career start.

A stay abroad is more than just a change of location - it is an experience that will help you personally, linguistically and professionally. Whether it's a semester abroad, a summer school, a language course or a research stay abroad: TU Dresden offers you a wide range of opportunities to broaden your horizons and get to know the world.

You would like to...

• improve your subject and language skills ?

• makeinternational contacts?

• makefriends all over the world?

• experienceother cultures up close?

Then you've come to the right place! TU Dresden presents numerous programmes and funding opportunities and regularly organizes information events about studying abroad.

We at the Chair of Wood Technology and Wood-Based Bioeconomy are also happy to support you with your project abroad. Thanks to our contacts with partner universities worldwide, our students have already been to the USA, Canada, India, Sweden, Bulgaria, Hungary, Slovakia and many other countries.

Use your time at university to gain an international perspective - we can help you! Please contact us via the secretariat.

Dein Abschluss = dein Sprungbrett in eine vielfältige Zukunft
Mit dem Diplomabschluss in Verfahrenstechnik und Naturstofftechnik eröffnen sich dir hervorragende berufliche Perspektiven – in einer Branche, die Nachhaltigkeit, Innovation und Technik vereint. Dank deiner praxisnahen Ausbildung und fundierten ingenieurtechnischen Kenntnissen bist du bestens gerüstet, um in vielfältigen Bereichen Verantwortung zu übernehmen.

Klassische Branchen

🌲 Holzindustrie, Maschinenhersteller, Werkzeugbau & Möbelbau
Ob in der Produktion, Entwicklung, im Projektmanagement oder der Qualitätssicherung – in der Holz- und Möbelbranche sind kreative und technisch versierte Fachkräfte gefragt.

📦 Papier- & Verpackungsbranche
Nachhaltige Verpackungslösungen und moderne Papieranwendungen stehen im Zentrum aktueller Innovationen. Als AbsolventIn der Verfahrenstechnik bringst du das Know-how mit, um Produktionsprozesse effizienter und umweltfreundlicher zu gestalten.

🧪 Chemische Industrie, Klebstoff- & Kunststofftechnik
Mit dem vielseitigen Diplom der Verfahrens- und Naturstofftechnik eignet sich auch die gesamte Zulieferindustrie für holzverarbeitende Betriebe.

🔧 Ingenieurbüros, Sachverständige & Holzschutzgutachter:innen
Du kannst nach deinem Studium selbstständig Arbeiten und bei der Planung und Umsetzung technischer Projekte in interdisziplinären Teams mitarbeiten.

🌱 Forschungs- und Entwicklungseinrichtungen & Institute
Ob neue Faserverbundstoffe, biobasierte Werkstoffe oder funktionale Materialien – in der Forschung und Entwicklung arbeitest du an den Werkstoffen der Zukunft mit.

🌍 Umwelt- & Nachhaltigkeitsmanagement
Technisches Verständnis ist gefragt, wenn es um ressourcenschonende Prozesse und nachhaltige Produktkonzepte geht. Du kannst in Unternehmen oder Organisationen im Umweltbereich mitwirken – und so aktiv zum Klimaschutz beitragen.

🎓 Universitäten, Hochschulen, Akademien & Berufsschulen
Mit einem weiterführenden Studium oder einer Promotion kannst du dich wissenschaftlich spezialisieren und in Hochschulen oder Forschungsinstituten selbst Wissen weitergeben – national wie international.

💼 Behörden und Ämter von Bund und Ländern, Normungsinstitute & Berufsgenossenschaften
Nach deinem Studium kannst du dafür sorgen, dass alle gesetzlichen Regeln und Sicherheitsvorschriften eingehalten werden. Außerdem hast du die Chance, bei der Entwicklung neuer technischer Standards für die Branche mitzuarbeiten.

🌐 International durchstarten
Dein Abschluss an der international renommierten TU Dresden genießt auch außerhalb Deutschlands Anerkennung – viele AbsolventInnen arbeiten in internationalen Unternehmen oder Forschungseinrichtungen. Auslandserfahrung während des Studiums (z. B. durch Praktika oder Exkursionen) ebnet dir dabei zusätzlich den Weg.

Typische Berufsfelder

• Produkt-, Verfahrens- und Werkstoffentwicklung sowie Konstruktion 
• Arbeitsvorbereitung und Arbeitssicherheit
• Qualitätsmanagement, Mess- und Prüfwesen 
• Anwendungstechnik und -beratung 
• Technischer Einkauf und Vertrieb 
• Betriebs-, Abteilungs-, Team- und Projektleitung 
• Forschungs, Lehre, Ausbildung 
• Existenzgründung, Beratung, Coaching

Die Einschreibung erfolgt ganz einfach über das Online-Portal (Selma) der Universität. Hier findest du den Ablauf Schritt für Schritt:

• Online bewerben
  Über die Bewerbungsweiche der TU Dresden erreichst du das richtige Bewerbungsportal. Hier wirst du durch die Bewerbung geleitet. 
  Bewerbungsfrist: 01. Juni bis 15. Juli
  Hier findest du allgemeine Hinweise zur Onlinebewerbung.
• Bewerbung abschließen
  Da wir ein zulassungsfreier Studiengang (Ohne NC) sind, wirst du nach dem Abschicken deiner Bewerbungsdaten über das Selma-Portal automatisch aufgefordert, Dokumente auszudrucken, die du zusammen mit allen darin angeforderten Einschreibungsunterlagen postalisch an das Immatrikulationsamt senden musst. 
  Das Versenden der Unterlagen bedeutet eine verbindliche Immatrikulation an der TU Dresden. Wenn du noch auf Antwort von einem NC-Studiengang wartest, schicke deine Bewerbung erst später, jedoch immer noch fristgerecht ab. 
• Wann erfolgt die Immatrikulation?
  Sobald deine Unterlagen bei uns geprüft wurden, du deinen Semesterbeitrag überwiesen hast und die elektronische Meldung deiner gesetzlichen Krankenkasse über den Versicherungsstatus an der TU Dresden eingegangen ist, erfolgt deine Immatrikulation. Wir freuen uns auf dich! 

💬 Noch Fragen?
Das ServiceCenterStudium (SCS) ist die erste Anlaufstelle bei Fragen rund ums Studium. Ruf am besten an, schreib eine E-Mail oder geh persönlich vorbei.

Bevor die Vorlesungen starten, heißt es erst einmal: Ankommen, orientieren und Kontakte knüpfen. Damit dir das gelingt, gibt es die Erstsemestereinführung (ESE-Woche) – deine Einführungswoche ins Studium.

📍 Was passiert in der ESE-Woche?
Studierende höherer Semester – deine zukünftigen Tutor:innen – nehmen dich mit in den Unialltag:

• Du lernst den Campus und deine Seminargruppe kennen

• Du erhältst Unterstützung beim Stundenplan und bei organisatorischen Fragen

• In lockerer Atmosphäre gibt’s Infos, Spiele, Campus-Rallyes – und natürlich auch eine legendäre Kneipentour 🍻

Da wir zum Studienbereich Maschinenwesen gehören, läuft unsere ESE-Woche gemeinsam mit anderen Studiengängen dieses Bereichs. Hier findest alle Details.

🧭 Orientierung am Campus

Die TU Dresden ist groß – aber keine Sorge: Mit dem Campusnavigator findest du alle Gebäude, Hörsäle und Mensen im Handumdrehen.

✅ Erfolgreich durchs Studium an der Fakultät Maschinenwesen 

Hier findest du alle Informationen, die für ein erfolgreiches Studium brauchst. 

Das Wichtigste zuerst: Du musst dich nicht vorbereiten – keine Sorge! Wenn du an der Erstsemestereinführung (ESE-Woche) teilnimmst, bist du bestens für deinen Studienstart gerüstet.

🙋‍♀️ Wenn du dich aber schon ein bisschen einlesen oder dein Wissen auffrischen möchtest, dann hast du die Möglichkeit, an freiwilligen Angeboten teilzunehmen:

• 🧮 Brückenkurse 

• 💻 Online-Vorbereitungskurse mit flexibler Zeiteinteilung

• 🛠 Vorbereitungskurs Ingenieurwissenschaften 

📍Alle Infos zu den Kursen findest du auf der Studienstart-Seite des Maschinenwesens der TU Dresden.