Mechanical Engineering: one of the most important pillars of the German economy – and one of the most popular technical disciplines. Mechanical Engineering is only offered as a distance learning course at two German higher education institutions; parallel to work, students advance their subject knowledge, become familiar with scientific engineering working methods – and are prepared step by step to work independently in the broad field of Mechanical Engineering. Technical Mechanics, Construction and Computer Aided Design (CAD), Materials and Production are featured on the programme. A total of nine semesters lead to the degree – with five attendance phases per semester, concentrated on the weekends. Mechanical engineering graduates work in research, design and development. They can be found in production preparation and production, machine and plant maintenance and quality assurance, in civil service or working on a self-employed basis for engineering firms.