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International Programmes 

in Engineering Technology 

2013-2014 

Faculty of Engineering Technology

Your degree in engineering in the heart of Europe 2 

The 5E-engineer 4 

Overview of the programmes 6 

Bachelor’s programmes 7 

Structure 7 

Building blocks 9 

Learning formats 12 

Master’s programmes 18 

Objectives 18 

Two master tracks 18 

Master’s programmes and focuses 20 

- Master of Science in Industrial Sciences: Electromechanical Engineering 21 

- Master of Science in Industrial Sciences: Electronics Engineering 22 

- Master of Science in Industrial Sciences: Chemical Engineering 24 

- Master of Science in Industrial Sciences: Biochemical Engineering 25 

Evaluation 28 

Additional study programmes 29 

Campus GROUP T in the world 30 

Studying in Leuven 33 

Guidance and advice 35 

Admission and application 37 

Academic calendar 41 

Getting to Campus GROUP T 42

Beyond Engineering in Leuven 

Nowhere is it easier to truly experience Europe than in Belgium. With Brussels 

as the European capital, Belgium is the true heart of the continent. And it has 

another trump card: KU Leuven and its Faculty of Engineering Technology. 

The Leuven Campus GROUP T is the only campus in the Faculty of Engineering 

Technology that offers full English-language academic Bachelor’s and Master’s 

programmes in Electromechanical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, 

Chemical Engineering and Biochemical Engineering. 

“Beyond Engineering” is our motto. Obviously, you gain engineering expertise 

at the university campus, but you also learn and experience how to be creative 

in your thinking and your ventures. You develop distinct enterprising skills and 

insight into the systems that influence nature, culture and society. Beyond 

Engineering: it is the art of no longer seeing things as separate, but rather as 

part of a whole system where everything is connected. It is the art of coping 

with the paradoxes of nature and culture, an inspiring approach to innovation. 

That’s how we see the engineers of the future. 

Studying on our campus, you will find yourself at home in a truly inter national 

environment. You will be warmly welcomed by our Flemish students and many 

fellow students from China, India, Ethiopia, South-East Asia and the rest of the world. 

An engineering degree from KU Leuven opens doors to the whole of Europe, 

where you can continue your studies or find a fascinating job. 

Europe begins in Belgium. Why not your future? 

Kris Willems 

Dean Faculty of 

Engineering Technology 

Koen Eneman 

Head of Campus 

GROUP T 

1

Your degree in engineering in the heart of Europe 

An engineering programme of the Faculty of Engineering Technology at Campus GROUP T equips 

aspiring professionals with a unique combination of qualifications and life experience. For international 

students specifically, there are a number of clear-cut reasons for choosing KU Leuven: 

STUDYING 

• You can follow all engineering courses in the business language par excellence: English. 

What’s more, our programmes are attended by a wide range of international students, so English is all 

around, also outside the classroom. In other words, if you master the English language, you’ll feel right 

at home. 

• Science and technology minded students can apply for the engineering programme. 

We will not require you to sit an admission test, as long as you can show that you have the necessary 

background. 

• Your engineering degree is a stepping stone to universities worldwide. Our international network 

ensures that your degree is accepted by educational institutes and companies not only in Europe, 

but across the globe. 

LIVING 

• Leuven is one of Europe’s oldest university towns. The large student population adds a vibrant 

touch to the historical scenery. Located just 20 minutes from Brussels, and in easy reach of Paris, 

Amsterdam, and London, it has an easy-going lifestyle that is at the same time conducive to studying. 

• The tuition fee is more democratic than that of traditional locations in the US or the UK. The Flemish 

Government’s generous co-financing system 

ensures that tuition fees for Bachelor’s and 

initial Master’s programmes remain relatively 

low. Also, Leuven is a mid-sized university town, 

so life is more comfortable and economical 

than in a lot of other university towns. 

• You receive individual coaching, academically 

as well as socially. You can easily approach 

professors and other staff to share your 

concerns. 

• KU Leuven has years of experience in 

welcoming international students from 

universities worldwide. The International 

Offices at KU Leuven and Campus GROUP T 

have wide acclaim. 

Put together, these elements ensure that you attend 

a distinctive, high-level academic institute that will 

put you at the front of international professionals. 

2

KU LEUVEN: BELGIUM’S LARGEST UNIVERSITY 

KU Leuven is Belgium’s largest university. Founded in 1425, it is one of Europe’s oldest and most 

renowned universities. The university’s excellence in education is built on and cultivated through 

excellence in research. KU Leuven offers a comprehensive catalogue of 235 academic degree 

programmes at campuses in 11 cities. With more than 7,400 international students from 140 countries – 

more than 16 % of its total student population – KU Leuven fosters a vibrant international university 

community. 

FACULTY OF ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY 

The Faculty of Engineering Technology is one of the youngest faculties of the university. Due to 

a governmental decision, the programmes in engineering technology will be offered by universities 

from 2013-2014. This resulted in the foundation of a new faculty, part of the Science, Engineering 

& Technology Group. 

Not only are we the newest faculty, our model is quite unique: we offer Bachelor’s and Master’s 

programmes in Engineering Technology and Bioscience Engineering at no less than 7 campuses 

in Flanders. This multi campus model not only leads to strong local ties and a large network of 

companies and enterprises, but also to in-depth knowledge and expertise that can be exchanged 

and developed. This turns the faculty into a very dynamic, future-oriented and research-based 

environment. 

In 2011-2012, more than 5,400 students were registered in one of our programmes. They can count 

on the support and expertise of more than 600 professors and staff members. The Faculty of Engineering 

Technology offers Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes in both Dutch and English. The programmes 

in Dutch include (bio)chemical engineering, civil engineering, electromechanical engineering, 

electronics engineering, nuclear technology, welding engineering, food technology ... 

3

The 5E-engineer 

In essence, engineers find intelligent solutions to technological problems. 5E-engineers, however, are more 

than experts in technology. They also have distinct entrepreneurial skills and are capable of coaching others. 

5E-engineers are also aware of their place in the world and the impact they have on nature and culture. 

Finally, they know how to integrate specific technologies and gain greater insight. 

You don’t just learn this kind of engineering from a book or by yourself. It’s a matter of developing qualities 

as you go along, collaborating in cross-professional tasks, in an environment characterized by diversity 

and a plurality of worldviews. 

No traditional programme can achieve this. The principles underlying the curriculum at Campus GROUP T 

create a learning and working environment that encourages students to be demanding on themselves 

and to continue developing. 

THE 5 E’S OF BEYOND ENGINEERING 

Five aspects serve as a thread connecting the entire curriculum: Engineering, Enterprising, Educating, 

Environmenting and Ensembling. 

Engineering: 

Engineers create by using technologies and their underlying basic sciences. They are familiar with 

a multidisciplinary approach. 

Enterprising: 

Engineers have vision. Based on this, they set themselves a mission, around which they gather 

others. Through innovation, guts and leadership, they get things done effectively. 

Educating: 

Engineers are capable of making things to develop people. They can coach others. Their ideal is 

the development of each and everyone. 

Environmenting: 

Engineers are aware of the influence of technology on the world and vice versa. Therefore, they keep 

into account the impact of their actions on ethics, ecology, aesthetics and economics within a 

globalizing and ever evolving world. 

Ensembling: 

Engineers see the coherence of things. By differentiating and integrating, and approaching all 

things from all angles, they achieve deeper insights and enjoy ever richer experiences. Engineering, 

Enterprising and Educating represent the roles the engineer plays in society: producing things from a 

strong vision and geared towards each one’s development. Environmenting sheds light on the scene 

that gives shape to these roles; this is where the engineer gets to know the elements of nature and 

culture with which technology is interwoven. Ensembling, finally, raises the engineer out of the 

engineering role, so that he or she can observe and approach things from a higher perspective. 

4

SOLAR TEAM: INNOVATING ENERGY, ENERGIZING INNOVATION 

Seventeen ambitious engineering students. Together they form the GROUP T Solar Team. Ten years 

after the first team produced Belgium’s first solar car, project manager Mattijs Plettinx and his team 

took up this great challenge again: building an even better performing car for the prestigious 2013 

World Solar Challenge, the unofficial world championship for solar-energy powered cars. 

In October 2001, the Solar Team made it to the 11th spot, despite some setbacks. 

“It is not our sole goal to design and build a solar car and take part in the race in Australia”, 

Mattijs clarifies. “The Solar Team placed this undertaking in a broader perspective right from 

the outset. First of all, we want to make the greater public aware of the exhaustibility of fossil fuels. 

Solar energy is one of the valid alternatives. We want to contribute to its further development 

and demonstrate an accessible application to the public. Technology is a crucial factor in this. 

In our country, a lot of know-how is already available in this field, spread out over various hightech 

companies and research centres. A project like ours is a great opportunity to bring this top 

technology together and promote it, which is our second goal. Our third objective is to stimulate 

entrepreneurship. Building a solar car is a complex process, which requires not only technical 

expertise but also specific competencies in 

leadership and management. Our largest target 

audience is no doubt young people. With our 

project we want to warm them up to technology, 

innovation and entrepreneurship so that more of 

them will choose technical studies and professions. 

As the number of jobs in green energy increases, 

the need for technically skilled professionals 

will be greater than ever.” 

www.solarteam.be 

www.worldsolarchallenge.org 

ZHOU KANG: THE FIRST CHINESE MEMBER OF THE SOLAR TEAM 

“I am very happy to be the first international member of GROUP T’s Solar Team. 

To me, it means honour and responsibility”, says Zhou Kang, Master’s student 

in Electromechanical Engineering with a focus on Intelligent Mechanics. 

Kang had a crucial role in the Mechanics Department of the Solar Team. 

He is responsible for two crucial aspects of the solar car: the aerodynamics 

and the engine. 

Kang is from the South-Chinese province Jiangxi. He studied Mechanics at 

the Shanghai Jiaotong University for two years and came to GROUP T to 

continue his engineering studies. According to Kang, the Solar Project can 

be referred to as a big entrepreneurial engineering experience. 

5

Overview of the programmes 

The Faculty of Engineering Technology offers Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes in both Dutch and 

English. GROUP T in Leuven is the only campus in the faculty that offers a full curriculum in Engineering 

Technology in English. 

PROGRAMME AT CAMPUS GROUP T 

ECTS 

BACHELOR 

• Bachelor of Science in Industrial Sciences 180 

- Major Electromechanical Engineering 

- Major Electronics Engineering 

- Major Chemical Engineering (option Chemical Engineering or 

Biochemical Engineering) 

MASTER 

• Master of Science in Industrial Sciences: Electromechanical Engineering 

(focus: Intelligent Mechanics, Intelligent Manufacturing or Intelligent Mobility) 60* 

• Master of Science in Industrial Sciences: Electronics Engineering 

(focus: Intelligent Electronics or Internet Computing) 60* 

• Master of Science in Industrial Sciences: Chemical Engineering 

(focus Sustainable Process & Materials Engineering) 60* 

• Master of Science in Industrial Sciences: Biochemical Engineering 

(focus Medical Bioengineering) 60* 

* 60 ECTS spread over a one-year track or a two-year track with complementary in-company activities. 

At the Technology Campus in Ghent, you can choose for the European Master of Science in 

Food Science, Technology and Nutrition. More information about this Erasmus Mundus 

programme: www.iiw.kuleuven.be/english. 

6

Bachelor’s programmes 

Structure 

The academic Bachelor’s programme consist of 3 programme stages with a total weight of 180 ECTS. 

Each Bachelor’s programme comprises: 

• a joint programme common to all academic bachelor degrees; 

• a specific programme in view of the chosen major. 

During the joint programme, you receive general scientific and technological training in the four major 

basic sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics) and their corresponding technological 

fields (Energy, Matter, Life and Information Technology). 

In the second stage of the programme, you select an orientation to introduce you to your major subject 

in the third programme stage: will you decide on Electromechanical/Electronics Engineering or will you 

choose Chemical/Biochemical Engineering? In the third programme stage, you again choose between 

three majors: Electromechanical Engineering, Electronics Engineering or Chemical Engineering 

with a focus on either Chemical Engineering or Biochemical Engineering. 

1st programme stage BSc. Eng. 

Joint 

2nd programme stage BSc. Eng. 

Orientation 

ELECTROMECHANICAL & 

ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING 

2nd programme stage BSc. Eng. 

Orientation 

CHEMICAL & BIOCHEMICAL 

ENGINEERING 

3rd programme stage 

BSc. Eng. 

ELECTRO - 

MECHANICAL 

ENGINEERING 


BSc. Eng. 

ELECTRONICS 

ENGINEERING 


BSc. Eng. 

CHEMICAL 

ENGINEERING 

option 

CHEMICAL 

ENGINEERING 


BSc. Eng. 

CHEMICAL 

ENGINEERING 

option 

BIOCHEMICAL 

ENGINEERING 

7

MANAGEMENT GAME: A LAB FOR INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION 

The Management Game is part of the Management II course for students of the 2nd programme stage 

Industrial Sciences. The purpose of this game is to give students insight into how the different functional 

domains of a company fit together and how they influence each other. Every team of 4 or 5 students 

sets up a virtual company, for example a shoe factory. Every group enters into competition with 5 other 

teams. From their vision and mission they make choices for each functional domain: strategy, finances, 

marketing, production and human resources. Via computer simulation they receive feedback about 

their results. 

Frederik Bonroy, Liesbeth Boon, Michiel Boons, Li Chan, Liu Chao and Huang Liying set up a mixed 

Chinese-Flemish team. They found it interesting and enriching to take part in such a learning experience. 

According to them, it was instructive to experience how people with different cultural backgrounds 

have different perspectives. Different backgrounds are also conducive to different opinions, which one 

learns to place and appreciate in their proper contexts. They experienced these differences not only in 

areas involving the execution of their assignment but also in areas that involved more personal issues. 

The Flemish students were surprised by the store the Chinese students set by zodiac signs and were 

amazed that they still remembered the zodiac sign of each of the members long after their collaboration. 

The Chinese students, for their part, were surprised about the importance the Flemish students attached 

to eating together with the family. 

This little group seized the opportunity they were given with both hands and made it into a positive 

experience for each of its members. The other’s culture has now become a bit less strange. In this way, 

the students are provided with a laboratory of international collaboration. 

8

Building blocks 

Ordinarily, an academic Bachelor’s programme is intended to be followed by master studies. 

However, this should not prevent an academic bachelor from being employable on the labour market 

and, for instance, continuing with a Master’s programme at a later point. The Bachelor’s programmes 

offer first and foremost broad training which gradually creates room for specialization. 

The bachelor programme comprises: 

1. Engineering Content 

2. Holistic Engineering Experiences 

ENGINEERING CONTENT 

In the first two stages, students are provided with broad scientific-technological basic knowledge from 

four domains: matter and chemistry, energy and physics, information and mathematics, life and biology. 

From the very outset, a great deal of attention is given to engineering. In the third stage, students acquire 

more in-depth knowledge of one of those four disciplines, with attention to all technological aspects that 

engineers in that discipline may encounter. The course units are conceived in such a way that students 

will acquire the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge and skills to be able to make the necessary 

analyses and introduce new ideas into the experiences, both in the programme and in professional life. 

A company’s structure is introduced in the management part of the first stage. The second and third stages 

introduce various management techniques that are applied in the experiences: finances, marketing, 

operations and project management. In terms of communication techniques, the emphasis is on presen tation, 

reporting, meetings and persuasion. Inter-cultural communication is also included in the curriculum. 

HOLISTIC ENGINEERING EXPERIENCES 

Engineering Experiences are true learning experiences. They are open and cross-disciplinary assignments 

with attention to management and communication tools like financial and marketing analyses, a projectbased 

approach, presentations and reports and meeting skills. 

Both the technological complexity and the realistic character of the experiences are increased with each 

year. In the first stage, students are introduced to engineers, companies and stakeholders and learn the 

dynamics of teams. In the second stage, the accent is on creation. To stimulate creative, innovative and 

educational aspects, the teams compete with each other and present their accomplishments to a broader 

audience. In the third stage there is the bachelor project in which each team develops an innovative idea 

in a real-life engineering project under patronage of a company. For each experience, there is a team of 

assistants, professors, researchers and entrepreneurs ready to coach the students and teach them to 

reflect and to develop themselves. 

9

CASE STUDY: RACING WITH THE SUN 

One of the most exciting course units in the engineering curricula is without a doubt the Engineering 

Experiences. These are interdisciplinary learning experiences that are spread out over the entire 

programme. Students work in team to complete challenging projects in which they pick up the 

competences of a 5E-engineer. Students enrolled in the second programme stage Electromechanics 

orientation build mini solar cars. Those cars compete against each other in a real race. 

INTERNATIONAL TEAM BUILDS INTELLIGENT ROBOT 

Build a robot that works on sensors and is controlled by a PC. That, in a nutshell, is the assignment 

that students in the second bachelor stage are presented with. It is part of the Engineering 

Experiences, the interdisciplinary learning experiences that are spread out over the entire programme. 

Students carry out challenging projects 

as a team while acquiring engineering 

skills in practice. In the second bachelor 

stage, the students are expected to 

design and build an original and tangible 

product that works effectively. Furthermore, 

each team must examine 

whether the product is economically 

viable. The projects are always part of 

a competition. The 2012 edition was 

won with flying colours by an inter - 

national team that included as main 

players Akskat Jangam from India, 

Mao Huiton from China, Na-Bajr Sirikul 

from Thailand, Xitis Lal Shrestha from 

Nepal and Olegs Samoilenko from 

Latvia. They presented a robot that 

was capable of solving a Rubik’s Cube 

in no more than twenty moves and in 

less than five minutes. 

10

ENGINEERING YOUR FUTURE 

Ahmad has been living in Brussels for three years now. After completing 

secondary school and with a passion for technology, he went looking 

for an engineering programme that was familiar with international 

students. He almost automatically ended up at GROUP T, the only 

campus where it is possible to take all your courses in English and 

where you end up in a varied multicultural environment. 

Ahmad is in the second stage of the Industrial Sciences Bachelor's programme 

and he found his way around very quickly. “Not only because of the very international 

environment”, he explains, “but also because of the way the programme is 

approached. You are constantly challenged to prove yourself, to show that you 

know how to go about doing things, that you can collaborate with others in the 

labs or in projects and that you are sharp, in short, that you can organize and 

manage yourself. You learn how to develop yourself, to set goals. Studying to 

become an engineer is also a test of character that way. You gain mental strength 

and you learn how to approach and solve problems. And you are constantly gaining 

self-confidence and trust in your own abilities.”

Learning formats 

LECTURES 

The main goal of the lectures is transfer of knowledge. The theory is explained and, if necessary, demonstrated. 

Lectures are given to larger groups of students, and always deal with study material that is required for 

the exams. 

EXERCISES AND SEMINARS 

For most courses, there are exercise sessions and seminars that follow on from the lectures. You deal 

with the subject matter in groups, under the guidance of a professor who provides you with methods 

to solve scientific and technological problems. Generally, these sessions are assessed continuously. 

LEARNING EXPERIENCES AND PRACTICAL SESSIONS 

These learning activities always begin with a concrete, engaging task that you carry out on your own. 

To complete this task, you have to do something (act) and deploy or develop the necessary skills. The task 

is such that knowledge has to be applied (think): the aim is that you act with knowledge. In concrete terms, 

knowledge that is presented elsewhere in the course unit (through in-class study or self-study) is applied. 

Finally, the task affects you in one way or another (feel), so you actually experience satisfaction. 

In the first programme stage, the learning experiences and practical sessions are chiefly samples that 

rouse interest for what is to come: company visits, a day with an engineer, team building sessions, 

lab assignments, etc. In the higher years, you carry out more complex assignments. These activities are 

assessed continuously. 

ARE YOU ALREADY FAMILIAR WITH THESE EDUCATION TERMS? 

Every programme is composed of course units. Each course unit is attributed a number of ECTS. 

An ECTS corresponds to the time a ‘model student’ will, on average, spend on a course unit, 

and stands for 25 to 30 hours of study time. 

The size of a programme is no longer expressed in programme years but in programme stages 

and ECTS: one programme stage comprises about 60 ECTS. A Bachelor’s programme comprises 

180 ECTS (= three programme stages), a Master’s programme comprises 60 (= one programme 

stage), 120 (= two programme stages), or more ECTS depending on the programme. The size 

of a number of Master’s programmes may in the future increase from 60 to 120 ECTS. 

At the KU Leuven, an academic year is divided into two semesters, each of which ends with 

a series of exams on the course units of that semester. 

12

I was a student guide during the study tour of GROUP T in China 

in the spring of 2012. Now, I am a member of the new Solar 

Team. Seventeen engineering students are busy designing and 

building a new high-performance solar car with which they will 

participate in the Australian World Solar Challenge in the autumn 

of 2013. In the Solar Team, I am responsible for the business 

relations. An important job considering the great involvement of 

companies in the solar project, both in research and development 

and in sponsorship. The greatest added value of studying at GROUP T is working 

in a team, something with which Chinese students are less familiar, especially 

in the case of international teams. But once that obstacle is overcome, doors 

and perspectives will open which you didn’t even know existed before coming 

to Leuven. 

(Xu Suihong, student from China) 

13

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN INDUSTRIAL SCIENCES 

180 ECTS 

FIRST STAGE: JOINT 60 

COURSE 

ECTS 

ENGINEERING CONTENT 53 

ENERGY/PHYSICS 17 

• Dynamics of a Particle 5 

• Statics of Rigid Bodies 3 

• Physics of Extended Bodies 3 

• Electricity and Magnetism 6 

MATTER/CHEMISTRY 7 

• Chemistry and Chemical Technology 7 

LIFE/BIOLOGY 5 

• Biological and Emerging Systems 5 

INFORMATION/MATHEMATICS 18 

• Calculus 6 

• Linear Algebra and Geometry 4 

• Computer Systems and Databases 3 

• Electronic Circuits 5 

MANAGEMENT/COMMUNICATION 6 

• Management I 3 

• Communication I 3 

HOLISTIC ENGINEERING EXPERIENCE 7 

• Engineering Experience 1 + 2 7 

n Lectures n Exercises and seminars n Learning Experiences and practical sessions 

SECOND STAGE: ORIENTATION 60 

COURSE 

ECTS 


ENERGY/PHYSICS 9 

• Thermodynamics 5 

• Electromagnetism 4 

MATTER/CHEMISTRY 10 

• Technology and Strength of Materials 7 

• Chemistry for Polymers 3 

LIFE/BIOLOGY 3 

• Biotechnology 3 


• Object-orientated Programming 5 

• Signals and Systems 5 

14

COURSE 

ECTS 

ORIENTATION A - ELECTROMECHANICS/ELECTRONICS-ICT 12 

• Electromechanical Technology 7 

• Microprocessors and Data Acquisition 5 

ORIENTATION B - CHEMISTRY/BIOCHEMISTRY 12 

• Biochemistry 6 

• Industrial Chemistry 6 


• Management II 3 

• Communication II 3 


• Engineering for the Real World (Seminars and Experiences) 3 

• Engineering Experience 3 (Computer Based Control) 4 

• Engineering Experience 4 (Elective CH, BCH, EM or E) 3 


THIRD STAGE: ELECTROMECHANICAL ENGINEERING 60 

COURSE 

ECTS 



• Statistics 3 

TECHNOLOGY 40 

• Industrial Automation 5 

• Control Theory 5 

• Mechanical Design 3 

• Machine Parts 7 

• Manufacturing Technology 7 

• Electrical Machines and Distribution 7 

• Thermomechanical Machines 6 


• Management III 4 

• Communication III 3 


• Beyond Engineering (Seminars and Experiences) 3 

• Engineering Experience 5 (Design of Automated Machine) 7 


15

THIRD STAGE: ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING 60 

COURSE 

ECTS 




TECHNOLOGY 36 

• Analog Electronics 6 

• Digital Systems 4 

• Microprocessors 5 

• System Software 5 

• Software Development 5 

• Data Communication and Computer Networks 5 

• Electronic Design 6 

• Digital Signal Processing 4 






• Engineering Experience 5 (Design of an Embedded System) 7 


THIRD STAGE: CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - OPTION CHEMICAL ENGINEERING 60 

COURSE 

ECTS 




TECHNOLOGY 40 

• Analytical Chemistry 7 

• New Materials 5 

• Physical Chemistry 5 

• Unit Operations 6 

• Environmental Technology 5 

• Applied Mechanics and Thermodynamics 3 

• Process Control 5 

• Fermentation & Bioconversion 4 




16



• Engineering Experience 5 (Design and Analysis of Chem. Engineering Applications) 7 


THIRD STAGE: CHEMICAL ENGINEERING - OPTION BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING 60 

COURSE 

ECTS 




TECHNOLOGY 40 

• Biochemical and Biomedical Research Methods 7 

• Microbiology 5 

• Molecular and Cellular Biology 5 

• Unit Operations 6 

• Environmental Technology 5 

• Applied Mechanics and Thermodynamics 3 

• Process Control 5 

• Fermentation and Bioconversion 4 






• Engineering Experience 5 (Design and Analysis of Bio- Engineering Applications) 7 


17

Master’s programmes 

Objectives 

The Master’s programmes aim to provide the prospective engineer with: 

• general academic training; 

• advanced knowledge and skills in Engineering Technology, Enterprising, Educating, Environmenting 

and Ensembling and, more specifically, the chosen major; 

• the required research competencies; 

• training necessary to be a competent starter after having completed the Master's programme, which is 

to say to prepare him or her for the autonomous practice of science and technology, for the application 

of the acquired knowledge and skills in the engineering profession and for plotting a lifelong learning 

and development track. 

PREPARATORY PROGRAMME 

A preparatory programme is an individualized study track. It is created for new students who do 

not have the appropriate academic background in the major they wish to study. The curriculum 

of the preparatory programme is designed to strengthen the academic knowledge and skills of 

the students. It is made up of the prerequisite courses required for the Master’s study. 

Two master tracks 

At the Campus GROUP T, we organize Master’s programmes in two tracks: 

a. the one-year Master’s programme of 60 ECTS; 

b. a two-year track which consists of the one-year Master’s programme plus a complementary learning 

track in a company or project. This enables prospective engineers to acquire unique competencies in 

the area of ‘Innovation and Entrepreneurial Engineering’, embedded in both in-depth (domain-specific) 

and broadening (5E-related) course units. Students are also given the opportunity to (partially) compose 

their own programme, based on a personal development plan. 

Semester 1 Semester 2 Semester 3 Semester 4 

MASTER 

TWO-YEAR TRACK 

Master’s programme 

semester 1 

Entrepreneurial Engineering Experience 

Master’s programme 

semester 2 

18

The complementary learning track is made up as follows: 

a. an elaborate learning experience in and with a company, namely the ‘Entrepreneurial Engineering 

Experience’ with an innovative engineering challenge as the central assignment. The learning experience 

is set in a team, has a distinct international dimension and usually requires a multidisciplinary approach. 

Entrepreneurs and students are encouraged to innovate, to transfer knowledge and to grow. It is a 

unique cross-fertilization between company and university college; 

b. in support of the ‘Entrepreneurial Engineering Experience’, students select a number of domain-specific 

scientific and technological course units, in consultation with their supervisors. The course units are 

selected based on their necessity for or relevance to the ‘Entrepreneurial Engineering Experience’. 

An elective course unit is also possible; 

c. a package of course units, inspired by the 5E-education Concept and aimed at stimulating innovation, 

social commitment and sustainable development in the 5E-engineer to the greatest extent possible. 

The following themes enter into the equation: 

Engineering: converging, emerging technologies; 

Educating: human centred design, human-machine interaction, low-cost engineering; 

Enterprising: innovation management; 

Environmenting: systems design and engineering (related to sustainable engineering); 

Ensembling: mindful engineering. 

The two-year formula, with its complementary learning track, in a company is unique in Flanders. 

It gives students the opportunity to work on unique projects like building a solar car or developing 

environmentally-friendly cars. 

IT’S NOT JUST WHAT YOU STUDY THAT MATTERS BUT 

ALSO WHERE YOU STUDY 

“It certainly was a radical decision and it wasn’t an obvious 

one, but I haven’t regretted it for a minute. After all, GROUP T 

has many advantages: small classes, good supervision, 

attentive and respectful professors, helpful fellow students, 

excellent reception by the International Office and of course 

the whole international environment with all the foreign 

students, which is a tremendous bonus and truly prepares 

you for the globalized world and the economy that’s in full 

expansion. Studying at Campus GROUP T is anticipating 

your future as an engineer and as a professional.” 

(Chen Keliang) 

19

Master’s programmes and focuses 

You can choose between four different Master’s programmes in Industrial Sciences. In each master 

you choose an in-depth focus on an innovative technological development in the discipline. Preferably, 

you choose the technology focus that fits best with the topic of your research assignment in the 

Master’s project. 

Electromechanical Engineering 

• Intelligent Manufacturing 

• Intelligent Mechanics 

• Intelligent Mobility 

Chemical Engineering 

• Sustainable Process & Materials Engineering 

Electronics Engineering 

• Intelligent Electronics 

• Internet Computing 

Biochemical Engineering 

• Medical Bioengineering 

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN INDUSTRIAL SCIENCES: 

ELECTROMECHANICAL ENGINEERING 

(60 ECTS) 

The cornerstones of this programme are energy conversion and mechanical design. Mechanical design 

starts with an idea that is shaped in a graphical design and that results in a finished product through 

choice of materials, simulation and production technique. Energy conversion is aimed at all aspects of 

energy efficiency in this process and ranges from electrical controls and automation to thermal power 

plants, combustion engines, climatization, etc. Depending on your interest, your engineering profile can 

range from technological expert to company manager. 

INTELLIGENT MANUFACTURING 

The issues covered in this focus include the latest production techniques, the way production systems operate, 

and the intrinsic relationship between production and other business processes, especially the design process. 

At the core of this focus are the possibilities that computer-based systems offer in this context. Moreover, 

you learn to factor in the tension between technology, economics, and the environment and ergonomics. 

INTELLIGENT MECHANICS 

The Intelligent Mechanics focus relates to designing, developing and optimizing automated mechanical 

machines. Based on a strong background in electricity and mechanics, you delve more deeply into aspects 

like advanced design methods, electronic operations, controls, measures and drives, data communication 

and visualization methods. 

INTELLIGENT MOBILITY 

Intelligent Mobility deals with the sustainable, applying smart solutions. Its application area is very broad 

and diverse. One example involves electric or hybrid cars fitted with intelligent recharging systems. 

Another example would be vehicles that can warn each other about accidents or traffic jams. Intelligent 

Mobility also has to do with choosing materials or production methods that have as small an impact 

on the environment as possible, and with optimally gearing transportation systems to one another. 

20

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN INDUSTRIAL SCIENCES: ELECTROMECHANICAL ENGINEERING 60 

COURSE 

ECTS 

FOCUS INTELLIGENT MECHANICS 60 


TECHNOLOGY 20 

• Finite Element Based Design 5 

• Measurement Systems 5 

• Dynamic Aspects of Machine Construction 5 

• Drive Systems 5 

FOCUS INTELLIGENT MECHANICS 15 

• Kinematics and Vibrations 5 

• Embedded Control Systems 5 

• Mechatronic Design 5 

MANAGEMENT AND COMMUNICATION 5 

• Management and Communication 5 


• Master’s Thesis 20 

FOCUS INTELLIGENT MANUFACTURING 60 


TECHNOLOGY 20 





FOCUS INTELLIGENT MANUFACTURING 15 

• Advanced Manufacturing Processes 6 

• Manufacturing Optimization and Quality Control 4 

• The CAD-CAM-NC Trajectory 5 





21

COURSE 

ECTS 

FOCUS INTELLIGENT MOBILITY 60 


TECHNOLOGY 20 





FOCUS INTELLIGENT MOBILITY 15 

• Transportation and Mobility Management 4 

• Vehicle Systems 4 

• Vehicle Structures 4 

• Sustainable Aspects of Mobility 3 






ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING 

(60 ECTS) 

In this master you will learn to correctly assess the workings and the impact of the technologies used. 

You will analyse existing analogue and digital electronic systems. You will design and implement those 

systems, as well as complex information and communication systems. 

Upon completion of the programme, you are an industrial engineer with a broad foundation of general 

skills and technical knowledge, but at the same time you will be familiar with the fascinating world of 

information processing that plays a crucial role in many social sectors. Often, you will also play a key role 

in the development of a variety of digital media applications, ranging from modern consumer products 

(positioning and navigation systems, smartphones, digital audio and video) to custom stand-alone or 

networked applications. 

INTELLIGENT ELECTRONICS 

Intelligent Electronics focuses on the combination of hardware and software to develop and implement so-called 

embedded systems. Examples of these systems are cell phones, MP3 players, digital cameras, etc. You learn 

to take into consideration limitations in the areas of I/O possibilities, memory, speed and energy consumption. 

INTERNET COMPUTING 

Internet Computing goes along with the trend of a more broadly distributed approach to developing computer 

applications. The advantages to this are high reliability, scalability, high performance, easy maintenance, 

low cost price, etc. Examples of such applications are all web-based and internet applications like search 

robots and voice over IP, as well as e-commerce, enterprise resource management, and user applications 

in the area of info-/edu-/entertainment. 

22

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN INDUSTRIAL SCIENCES: ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING 60 

COURSE 

ECTS 

FOCUS INTELLIGENT ELECTRONICS 60 


TECHNOLOGY 15 

• Multimedia 5 

• Wireless Communication 5 

• Ubiquitous Computer Systems 5 

FOCUS INTELLIGENT ELECTRONICS 20 

• Control Systems 4 

• Power Electronics 6 

• Programmable Logic 5 

• Embedded System Design 5 





FOCUS INTERNET COMPUTING 60 


TECHNOLOGY 15 

• Multimedia 5 

• Wireless Communication 5 

• Ubiquitous Computer Systems 5 

FOCUS INTERNET COMPUTING 20 

• Human Computer Interaction 4 

• Web 2.0 6 

• Distributed Applications 5 

• Media Processing 5 





23


CHEMICAL ENGINEERING 

(60 ECTS) 

This master includes a variety of disciplines. In addition to fundamental chemical-scientific course units, 

the curriculum includes course units in the fields of socio-economics (company management, economy) 

and chemical technology (engineering course units, separation techniques, chemical process technology, 

industrial process technology, surface chemistry, environmental technology, etc.). A large cross-campus 

elective subject package, as well as the Master thesis in a research and/or industrial context allow you 

to place your own emphasis. 

On completion of the master, you are trained to lead and coordinate industrial production units and 

research, analysis and screening laboratories in technical-commercial, administrative and educational 

environments. The chemical sector (petrochemical, synthetic, pharmaceutical, etc.) offers a broad and 

fascinating field of work. You can also set up applied research and design activities on a self-employed basis. 

SUSTAINABLE PROCESS AND MATERIALS ENGINEERING 

In Sustainable Process and Materials Engineering, the central point is reliable technology that meets today’s 

requirements without putting future generations in a tight spot. This implies that materials and energy must 

be used efficiently, taking into account the impact on the environment. Thus, on the one hand this focus is 

aimed at sustainable designing, development, and manufacturing of products and systems, and on the other it 

is aimed at development, properties, characterization, production and processing of (new) materials. 

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN INDUSTRIAL SCIENCES: CHEMICAL ENGINEERING 60 

COURSE 

ECTS 

FOCUS SUSTAINABLE PROCESS AND MATERIALS ENGINEERING 60 


TECHNOLOGY 19 

• Chemical Engineering 8 

• Computer Aided Design 4 

• Advanced Analytical Chemistry 4 

• Electrical Engineering 3 

FOCUS SUSTAINABLE PROCESS AND MATERIALS ENGINEERING 16 

• Sustainable Engineering 7 

• Polymer Engineering 4 

• Advanced Materials Technology 5 





24


BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING 

(60 ECTS) 

This master is aimed at various sectors (food, biomedical, pharmaceutical, environmental, etc.). In addition to 

fundamental (bio)chemical-scientific course units, the curriculum includes course units in socio-economics 

(company management, economy) and biotechnology (engineering course units, separation techniques, 

fermentation technology, molecular biology techniques, industrial biochemistry and microbiology, environ - 

mental technology, bioreactor design, etc.). A large cross-campus elective subject package, as well as 

the master’s thesis in a research and/or industrial context allows you to place your own emphasis. 

On completion of the master you are trained to lead and coordinate industrial production units and research, 

analysis and screening laboratories in technical-commercial, administrative and educational environments. 

The food and biotechnology sector, the environmental sector, pharmaceutical industry and life sciences 

offer a broad and fascinating field of work. 

MEDICAL BIOENGINEERING 

The focus Medical Bioengineering relates to biotechnological developments in the medical sector. 

Knowledge of human physiological systems (the cardiovascular system, neurophysiology, etc.) and 

medical engineering techniques form the foundation of developments in the area of artificial organs, 

tissue engineering, biomaterials, bioelectronics and new diagnostic techniques (microarray technology, 

PCR technology). 

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN INDUSTRIAL SCIENCES: BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING 60 

COURSE 

ECTS 

FOCUS MEDICAL BIOENGINEERING 60 


TECHNOLOGY 20 

• Molecular Biological Techniques & Bioinformatics 5 

• Unit Operations II 5 

• Quality Control and Assurance 5 

• Food Technology 5 

FOCUS MEDICAL BIOENGINEERING 15 

• Physiological Systems and Anatomy 5 

• Medical Bioengineering 5 

• Trends and Innovations in the Biomedical Sector 5 





More information about the Master’s programmes: www.iiw.kuleuven.be/english/programmes 

25

THE MASTER’S PROJECT: AN INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE 

Realizing a Master’s thesis as a team, it’s a matter of course! And an increasing 

number of students of different origins find each other. They form an international 

team, a carbon copy of the business world they will soon be part of. 

Toon Goris and Pan Taibo come from Belgium and China, respectively. They are 

both Master’s students in Electronics Engineering and know each other from a 

previous project on which they worked with four other students. That project 

related to Digital Image Processing (DSP), a topic they wanted to explore further 

in their master’s thesis. After a meeting at NXP, a Leuven-based semiconductors 

company, they were able to begin their research there. It is their intention to 

use the results in the communication between two hearing aids to improve 

the hearing experience. 

They are unanimously positive about their experience. They complement each other well, because they 

are good at different aspects of the assignment. For instance, Toon is more familiar with the control 

aspects of DSP research, while Taibo can do his thing in programming. 

Getting to know each other’s culture turned out to be a great added value. This getting-to-know-oneanother 

occurred spontaneously while working together, for instance when sharing their favourite music, 

or eating together and exploring the different tastes associated with their respective eating cultures. 

Would they recommend an international student collaboration to their successors? Absolutely, it comes 

highly recommended. By joining an international team, international students learn how to interact 

in an entirely new environment. The same is true for the Flemish students: they, too, are offered 

the opportunity to expand their horizons, to learn how to deal positively with differences in culture 

and background, to set aside prejudice, and to have an eye for everybody’s talent. 

26

PEGASUS 3.0: THE WINGED 2 CV 

Students at the Faculty of Engineering Technology are not only fascinated by futuristic ecological 

racing cars. For about 5 years now, they have also been turning their attention to old-timers. 

One of the most popular ones in this category is still the famous ‘Deux Chevaux Vapeur’ (or ‘two 

horsepower’). Between 1948 and 1990, more than 4 million of these were rolled out of the factory. 

The CQS GROUP T Racing Team came up with the idea 

to provide a new future for this classic from automotive 

history. In 2009-2010, they presented 2 prototypes: a 

hybrid and an electric 2 CV race car. In terms of design 

they were identical, both like the aerodynamic racing 

body consisting of 100 % recyclable biocomposite 

material. In 2012, the students introduced their new 

creation. The Pegasus 3.0 participated in the 24-hour 

endurance race for converted 2 CV’s. The Pegasus 3.0 

differs from its predecessors in a number of significant ways. The students significantly reduced 

the weight form 650 kg to 550 kg. They also dropped the electric engine and went for a combustion 

engine fuelled entirely by E85 bioethanol. Another new element is the injection system that is much 

more reliable than a classic carburettor and that performs better. Together with a better engine 

tune-up, the Pegasus 3.0 is considerably more economical than its predecessors. 

FORMULA GROUP T TEAM: INGENIOUS AND ENTREPRENEURIAL 

A group of 15 students from the two-year master track designed and built an electric Formula 1 

racing car: the Areion, named after the legendary horse from Greek mythology. With this environ - 

mentally-friendly racing car, they want to put KU Leuven on the map in the world of the international 

Formula Student, a competition in which more than 500 universities and 3,000 students from all 

over the world participate. With an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in less than four seconds, 

this goal should be within reach. 

But above all, the car’s construction is completely ecological. 

The driver’s chair for instance is manufactured from 

biocomposite material and is fully biodegradable. 

The design of the powertrain is geared towards an optimal 

use of the battery pack’s energy. Furthermore, the various 

parts were printed with a 3D printer which resulted in a 

considerable reduction in weight. 

With the Areion, the Formula GROUP T Team successfully 

participated in international car competitions in the United Kingdom, Germany and Italy. 

They competed against teams from the most prestigious universities in the world. 

27

Evaluation 

EXAMS 

Exams will be based on the material from lectures, or, in some cases, on self-study packets. 

Exams are generally oral with written preparation. 

The exams take place during three examination periods, in January, in June and in September. 

CONTINUOUS ASSESSMENT 

There are no exams on exercises, practical sessions, learning experiences or projects. These are evaluated 

through continuous assessment. Throughout the year, students’ stages of development and how they gain 

greater insight into the theory and its concrete applications are monitored. The student’s performance 

and dedication will also be observed and tested against the proposed goals. 

28

Additional study programmes 

ADDITIONAL MASTER’S DEGREE 

Do you want to add another degree to your master’s degree? KU Leuven gives you many options to 

choose from. For certain programmes of study, you can only start the Master’s programme via a shortened 

bachelor’s pathway or a preparatory programme. You can of course also deepen your knowledge via an 

advanced Master’s programme. You will only be admitted if you already have a specific Master’s degree. 

More information: www.kuleuven.be/ma 

DOCTORAL STUDIES 

You undertake your doctoral training in Industrial Sciences at the Arenberg Doctoral School. 

The Arenberg Doctoral School of Science, Engineering and Technology stimulates doctoral researchers in 

their endeavour to acquire scientific and technological knowledge in a four-year PhD track. The doctoral 

school not only provides a stimulating research environment, but also ensures that PhD students optimally 

develop the personal and professional skills they will need in their further career. Our PhD students become 

researchers with professional confidence and pride and develop the ability to conduct research and establish 

collaborations, both in academia and with external private and public partners. Our PhD students advance 

the frontiers of knowledge and combine this scientific endeavour with valuable professional experience. 

Our research topics span all fields of science and technology, including Life Sciences, Computing and 

Information Science, Environmental Sustainability, Human Settlements, Agriculture, Food Research, 

Genomics and Biomaterials, Nanoscience and Nanofabrication, Advanced Materials, Energy and 

Optimisation in Engineering. 

More information: www.set.kuleuven.be/phd 

I arrived in Belgium in 2006 as a PhD student and have become familiar with the way 

things are done in these parts. 

GROUP T has come a long way in establishing itself as a real international campus. 

Diversity and an open vision are crucial elements of our international learning and working 

environment. Moreover, technical education cannot survive without a symbiotic relationship 

with research. As a chemical engineer, I believe research is the back bone of education. 

The importance of creativity and innovation in research can only be appreciated by effectively 

working together with the entrepreneurs and end-users through knowledge-brokerage. 

The ‘Connecting & Developing’ approach will create a fresh breeze of educational innovation 

and growth in and around Flanders, which will incorporate the motto of Beyond Engineering 

into its core. 

I hope that together we all can transform our institute not only into a centre of higher 

educational excellence, but also into a place for exchanging and sharing intellectual ideas, 

bringing innovation and leading us to think now and beyond. 

(Dr. Abhishek Dutta, member of the International Staff) 

29

Campus GROUP T in the world 

The Faculty of Engineering Technology has a global network of contacts with foreign universities. At Campus 

GROUP T, more than 20% of the engineering students are international students. They represent 65 different 

nationalities from all over the world. This international environment constitutes the ideal growing medium 

for prospective engineers to expand their horizons and get to know other cultures. This in anticipation of 

their future professional practice that will be more internationally coloured than ever. Our international network 

extends not only to Europe but also to China, South-East Asia, India and Ethiopia. 

EUROPE 

As an Erasmus student with an EU scholarship you can do part of your training at a host university 

(from three months to a full academic year). To that end, collaboration and exchange agreements were 

concluded with universities from Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Portugal, Norway, Finland, Germany, 

The Netherlands, France and other countries of the EAA. 

CHINA 

Over the past 20 years, collaboration agreements have been concluded with no fewer than 30 universities 

from all over China. 

The Joint International Programme in Engineering is aimed at Chinese students who have already gone 

through one or two years of engineering training. They can continue their studies in English on the Leuven 

campus and obtain a Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree in Industrial Sciences. 

The International Engineering Class that was founded at the prestigious Beijing Jiaotong University goes in 

the opposite direction. This is an English-language, Leuven-tailored engineering programme that is open 

to Flemish and foreign engineering students who want to do part of their training in China. 

The China Journey is the annual study trip to China taken by the students in the third stage. For 17 days, 

their travels include Beijing, Wuhan, Shanghai, Xi’an, Chongqing, Chengdu, Hangzhou and Suzhou. They visit 

companies, universities and the most important cultural headliners. Together with your fellow students and 

guides, you will stay on the campus of the partner universities in these cities, where you will be received 

by Chinese students. Over the past ten years, more than 2,000 engineering students and lecturers have 

enjoyed a thorough introduction to China. 

Info at chinaproject.group-t.com 

Being introduced to China is also possible in Leuven. 

The Confucius Institute at GROUP T sees to the 

promotion of the Chinese language and culture 

in Flanders. There are introductory courses like 

‘A Touch of China’, especially designed for 

engineering students and graduates. If you want 

to study or continue studying in China, you can 

apply for a scholarship at the Confucius Institute. 

30

JOB FAIR FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS 

Every year, a job event is organized for the international students, in collaboration with the 

Flanders-China Chamber of Commerce. The entire campus is turned into a forum where students 

and companies can meet in a professional way. 

Several renowned multinationals, but also SMEs, 

recruitment agencies, government institutions, 

and high-tech enterprises offer jobs, as well as 

internships, master’s theses, company projects, 

and longer-term, in-company learning tracks. 

The students are able to look into the company 

profiles and offers beforehand, while the companies 

are given a chance to consult the students’ CVs in 

advance. This allows both parties to arrange meetings 

and plan the fair optimally. The job fair is traditionally 

concluded with a networking drink. 

SOUTH-EAST ASIA 

Thailand acts as the pivotal point of the greater Mekong region, together with countries like Vietnam, 

Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and the Chinese province Yunnan. Collaboration agreements have already 

been concluded with 16 universities from this region in the framework of the Joint International Programme 

in Engineering. Students who took the International Postgraduate Programme in Logistics Management 

can obtain an MBA degree at Mae Fah Luang University in Thailand. 

In India, we collaborate with three partner universities for the exchange of students, professors and know-how 

in the framework of Joint Master’s Programmes. Those who took the International Postgraduate Programme 

in Enterprising or in Logistics Management can obtain an MBA degree at the Manipal University in India. 

ETHIOPIA 

Recently, the international network in Ethiopia has also started to build up its network and so far it has 

five partner universities. The collaboration not only encompasses the exchange of lecturers, but also 

the further development of the infrastructure and the professionalization of the teaching staff. 

The full list of partner universities is available at www.group-t.com 

For all information on studying abroad and on the international activities, please contact the International 

Office at internationaloffice@group-t.com 

31

Zha Lichen is from Beijing and studies at campus GROUP T 

to become an Electronics engineer. She has been playing 

the cello since childhood, performs with the Leuven 

University Symphonic Orchestra and played with Tan Dun, 

the film music composer of ‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon’ 

when she was sixteen. Lichen’s home university is the 

Beijing Jiaotong University, one of GROUP T’s first partner 

universities in China. A few years ago, GROUP T set up 

an International Class at Beijing Jiaotong University that 

allowed Chinese students to pursue a bilingual engineering 

programme. Lichen was among these students. The subjects 

that were taught by professors from Leuven convinced 

her to make a switch to Leuven. “What pulled me over 

were the Engineering Experiences”, Lichen explains. “They are cross-subject 

projects in which students are challenged to accomplish something special as a 

team. The whole approach is unique. Not only the teamwork but also the emphasis 

on independence, theory not merely for the sake of theory but always linked to 

practice, the importance of management skills, the close cooperation with companies, 

the informal relationship between professors and students, these are all things 

we are not used to in China. 

(Zha Lichen: Engineering on four strings) 

PROBLEM SOLVING ENGINEERS 

“I am especially impressed by the Engineering Experiences, cross-disciplinary projects 

in which students take on challenging assignments as a team, which make them 

familiar with the reality of engineering practice. So not only technical knowledge, 

but also project management, leadership, communication and social skills. Another 

major advantage is the international environment and atmosphere. It creates a 

platform to meet and to get to know people from different parts of the world. It isn’t 

easy, but determination, hard work and commitment and the help of the professors 

and the other students will help you through.” 

(Hassen Ridwan Tahir, student from Ethiopia) 

32

Studying in Leuven 

LEUVEN: ANCIENT AND ALIVE 

KU Leuven is located in the city of Leuven in the region of Flanders, the Dutch-speaking part of Belgium. 

Leuven is a modern, bustling and safe student city with a long and rich history. Cultural and recreational 

opportunities abound. The city’s central location offers a truly international experience. Major European 

capitals such as Brussels, Paris, London and Amsterdam are only a (very) short train journey away. 

Leuven’s concentration of brain capital, its excellent infrastructure and its convenient location in the heart 

of Europe create an exciting and creative climate for research and innovation. Leuven has established 

itself as one of Europe’s technology hot-spots and, together with Cambridge and Heidelberg, is part 

of Health Axis Europe, an alliance dedicated to stimulating innovation and competition in healthcare 

technology. 

LANGUAGE 

Most songs played on local radio stations are in English. Cinemas feature movies in the original language. 

Several radio stations broadcast in English. On TV there is a wide variety of English-language channels: 

CNN, BBC, MTV and so on. While Dutch is the native language in Leuven, Flemish students have a good 

knowledge of English and French. Many graduate and postgraduate courses and programmes are taught 

in English. 

GROUP T’s Centre of Anticipative Continuing Education (ACE) offers excellent opportunities to learn a new 

language or improve your existing language skills: eight languages are taught at different levels (Chinese, 

Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Spanish and Thai). The KU Leuven Language Institute also offers 

a wide range of language courses. 

More information: 

www.group-t.com 

www.ilt.kuleuven.be 

LIVING CONDITIONS 

Living conditions in Leuven easily meet the high standards that are common throughout Western Europe. 

Adequate student accommodation is easily found either in private homes or in student housing. The monthly 

cost (including electricity and gas) for a student room ranges from 250 to 300 euro. Access to the internet 

is available in student housing and wireless at the campus. 

Students are offered a free bus pass and free bicycle rental. They can make use of the university libraries 

and restaurants. 

Students can also receive a membership card of STUK at no charge. STUK is one of Flanders’ leading art 

centres. It offers a wide variety of theatre, dance, music, performing arts, visual arts and movies. 

33

FROM CHINA, WITH LOVE 

Fang Huaiyu and Zhang Fan are quite a couple. Although they both studied at the Beijing 

Jiaotong University, it was only at Campus GROUP T that the flame grew. 

Fang Huaiyu and Zhang Fan both studied Electronics Engineering. Fang Huaiyu went for the focus 

in Intelligent Electronics, while Fan opted for Internet Computing. They remember vividly how they 

arrived in distant Belgium. “It was my parents who prompted me to go abroad” Fang Huaiyu relates. 

“Europe was number 1 on the list. At my home university I learned more about the collaboration 

with Campus GROUP T and the fact that you can enrol in a programme in English, which is attractive 

to quite a few Chinese students. That’s how I almost automatically ended up in Leuven.” 

Fan, before he started at the Beijing Jiaotong University, stayed in the UK for half a month and 

there he developed a great appreciation for the European way of life. “At the time, my mind was 

already made up to study abroad” he confirms. “Friends told me many positive things about 

Belgium, so I took their advice.” 

“Student life, however, is completely different from China” Fang Huaiyu notes. “Just the fact that 

you do not live on campus here but rent a room in town, makes the experience of being a student 

in Leuven completely different from being one in China. There, your university is your second 

home where you study and learn together.” 

“Also studying is different” Fan continues. “The profs in Leuven set higher standards. You also 

have a more personal relationship with them than in China. In Leuven, the profs know you by 

name and you can speak to them or ask them questions at any time when something isn’t clear.” 

Fang Huaiyu is very happy with the lab sessions. “The lab sessions are more elaborate here. 

These sessions also ensure that you keep up with the theory, because otherwise you can’t do 

a good job on the assignments or experiments.” 

34

Guidance and advice 

ORIENTATION AND INTAKE 

For new students in the first bachelor stage, the faculty organizes a number of orientation events 

and intake sessions. The orientation events and intake sessions are neither compulsory nor binding. 

The following are included in the orientation events: 

• participation in the info day; 

• electronic prerequisite tests; 

• “student for a (half) day” during which you can take part in a learning experience. 

The orientation event will be concluded with an intake session with a study coach. 

INTRODUCTION TO BASIC SCIENCES COURSE 

New international students in the first bachelor stage have to enrol in the Introduction to Basic Sciences 

course. The programme is modular and includes Mathematics and Chemistry. 

Only enrolled students will be admitted. They can take the introductory course for free. You can put together 

your own programme from the course units you’d like to take. The course is arranged for September. 

ORIENTATION DAYS AND WELCOME WEEK 

To help you get settled during your first few days in Leuven and to learn more about Belgium, we have 

designed a special orientation programme with trips, tips, information and lots of opportunities to meet 

your fellow students. 

The Orientation Days take place at the beginning of each semester; in September and February. 

The Welcome Week is the general introductory week for new students in the bachelor stage. Anyone can 

participate in this week, which is scheduled just before the start of the academic year. During the Welcome 

Week, you’ll be introduced to the most important aspects related to your new student life: the campus, 

professors, fellow students, the Industria student association and the city of Leuven, culture and recreation. 

TRIAL EXAMS 

In about the seventh week of the academic year, trial exams are arranged for students in the first stage. 

The trial exams are optional and their objective is to: 

• help you check, at the beginning of the academic year, whether your study tempo is fast enough, your 

study method is efficient enough and your understanding of the subject material already covered is 

adequate; 

• enable you to become familiar with the exam system and the questions, and with taking exams; 

• make adequate study guidance possible, to detect and remedy, as early as possible, any gaps in 

study tempo, study method or understanding of the material and to give you tips on taking exams. 

35

TUTORIAL 

The tutors are the education and study advisors in the first bachelor stage. The task of the tutors is 

to revise or practice specific parts of the covered material and to provide additional explanation. 

Tutorials will be arranged at regular intervals and students are free to participate if they wish. 

COACHING 

A coach acts as leader for a group of students and closely follows each student. 

A coach’s tasks include informing, guiding, motivating and mediating. 

The coach will arrange regular meetings with the group. You can also meet with the coach individually, 

to address any problem you may have. 

STUDENT SERVICES 

As a student, you can use all the services offered by KU Leuven. The student services include financial, 

social and legal support, medical and psychological help, access to the university restaurants, study 

advice, accommodation, free bus pass and bicycle, sports and leisure time facilities, a free STUK card ... 

You’ll find the full range of what’s on offer on www.kuleuven.be. 

OMBUDS SERVICE 

During the exam periods, the ombuds service acts as mediator between the examiners and the students. 

The ombuds service supports and promotes the smooth running of the exams and consults with the 

student dean, the examiners and the students. 

Contact: examenombuds.eng@group-t.com 

INTERNATIONAL OFFICE 

Applicants go through the online application procedure of the International Office at KU Leuven. After receiving 

the admission letter, students contact the international office on the campus, which will provide further services 

to them. The students can go to GROUP T's International Office for information, help and advice in relation to 

their studies, their stay, their accommodation and in relation to administrative formalities. The Inter national Office 

supports and stimulates inter-cultural initiatives and helps create an international living and learning environment. 

Contact: internationaloffice@group-t.com 

APPLYING FOR A JOB 

We offer you support when you are looking for a position that best matches your qualities and offers 

you the most chances for a productive development. 

The most important activities are: 

• quickly and efficiently announcing job openings to the Master’s students 

• training in applying for a job for Master’s students; 

• providing information to the people who are responsible for personnel and selection in the company 

concerned; 

• offering indoor campus recruitment facilities to interested companies; 

• organizing the annual Entrepreneurs’ Day. 

36

Admission and application 

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS 

TO THE BACHELOR’S PROGRAMME 

To be admitted to a Bachelor’s programme, you must have either: 

• a secondary education diploma; 

• a higher education diploma; 

• a degree or diploma that is recognized as equivalent pursuant to a law, decree, European directive 

or international agreement. 

TO THE MASTER’S PROGRAMME 

Holders of the following degrees are granted direct admission to the programme: 

Bachelor in Industrial Sciences or Bachelor in Engineering Sciences from a related graduation track 

(e.g. academic Bachelor of Science in Electromechanics to Master of Science in Electromechanics) 

Holders of the following degrees are granted admission after completing the preparatory programme: 

Bachelor of Science in Industrial Sciences or Bachelor of Science in Engineering Sciences from a 

non-related graduation track (e.g. academic Bachelor of Science in Electromechanical Engineering to 

Master of Science in Electronics Engineering) 

LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS 

Since the language of instruction is English, it is of vital importance that you have a good command of the 

English language. In order to be admitted to the programme, applicants need to send in an official TOEFL 

or IELTS certificate. The minimum scores for admission are listed in the table below. 

Minimum scores for admission 

TOEFL 

IELTS 

PB CB iB 

550 213 79 6,5 

APPLICATION PROCEDURE 

APPLICATION FORM 

All international students are required to fill out the application form on www.kuleuven.be/application 

and to provide all required documents. Once the application has been approved, students receive an 

admission letter from the International Admissions Office of KU Leuven. 

Students from outside the European Economic Area are advised to contact GROUP T's International 

Office in time (tel. +32(0)16-30 10 04, fax. +32(0)16-30 10 40, e-mail: internationaloffice@group-t.com). 

37

ENROLMENT 

The enrolment period begins on 1 July. Anyone who would like to enrol must do so at the campus 

in Leuven, on any working day from 9 a.m. to 12 noon and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 

A student who registers for the first time must bring along the following documents: 

• valid passport; 

• admission letter; 

• letter of information. 

A student who has already successfully followed one or more stages at university and would like to apply 

for an exemption from course units which have already been successfully completed, should submit the 

following documents: 

• proof of identity; 

• a copy of the certificate or proof of studies that shows that the student has passed the course units 

from which he/she is seeking exemption; 

• a copy of the official programme of studies of the stage (or stages) followed. 

TUITION FEES 

If you are a citizen of one of the members of the European Economic Area, have been granted admission 

or authorization for permanent residence in Belgium, or if your request for asylum in Belgium has been 

accepted, government funding allows for an annual tuition fee of € 610.50 for a full-time study path. 

In all other cases the annual tuition fee is set at €4,096.30 (2012-2013 academic year). These amounts 

are subject to indexation and cover scheduled learning activities and exams. 

Tuition fees can vary depending on the type of study contract (diploma and/or credit or exam contract), 

the number of ECTS or whether you have a scholarship. 

The tuition fees include enrolment in the course units, exam fees, insurance, student and library cards 

(not for an exam contract) and use of the study centres. 

More information about the tuition fees and regulations: www.kuleuven.be/tuitionfees 

STUDY TRACKS 

You can follow one of the model tracks, full-time (60 ECTS per academic year) or part-time (30 ECTS 

per academic year), or a personalized study track can be granted for example if you have a serious 

disability, medical or social disabilities, if you are a recognized top athlete or artist, if you work at least 

80 hours per month, etc. 

Contact: johan.mannaerts@group-t.com 

38

ENGINEERING FAIRY TALES 

What began in the sixth year of primary education as a small group of amateurs has grown into a successful 

and promising professional music band. We are talking about ‘Geppetto & the Whales’ started by Jan Fransen, 

a student in his third bachelor and a bass guitarist, bursting with enthusiasm and creativity. With a contract 

from EMI in their pocket, Jan and his band are following in the steps of the greats: The Beatles, 

Pink Floyd, Coldplay, etc. 

Jan’s band has since played festivals and cultural centres here in Belgium and in the Netherlands and 

Croatia. At GROUP T, Jan enjoys the special status of student/artist, but keeps both feet firmly planted 

on the ground. “I came to GROUP T to become an engineer. 

This is and remains my priority. This University College is an 

excellent learning environment to do everything and to indulge 

yourself. The poor Geppetto began with nothing but a piece of 

wood and a chisel. He produced Pinocchio, a simple doll that 

travelled the world and now knows everyone. What brought the 

wooden puppet to life was inspiration, the Blue Fairy’s magical 

wand. She has no name – la fata dai capelli turchini (the fairy with 

the blue hair) – but I know that she is wandering around the campus. 

And that she is there for anyone who has something to offer.” 

39

PRINCE PHILIPPE IMPRESSED BY CHINESE GROUP T-ALUMNI 

GROUP T participated in the China-Belgium Education Forum at the renowned Peking University 

in Beijing on October 22, 2011. The event was part of the princely economic mission to China. 

During the panel discussion with 5 Chinese alumni of Belgian universities, Luo Yiyang, GROUP T 

Biochemistry alumnus 2005, stole the show. 

A GROUP T ALUMNUS SPEAKS 

Luo Yiyang recalled how warmly she had been received at GROUP T when she started the Joint 

International Engineering Programme there. The governor of Antwerp, one of the dignitaries in 

the audience during the panel discussion, wanted to know which skills the Chinese alumni had 

acquired as students in Belgium. The Chinese Biochemistry master explained the Beyond Engineering 

concept and talked about a cross-cultural cooking experience, learning Dutch at ACE-GROUP T 

and her internship at P&G. “If I had not made it to Belgium, I would have never known how 

innovative their approach to studying is and what makes the Flemish tick professionally.” 

Her advice for Chinese youngsters who want to set off for Belgium? “Get to know the culture 

and allow yourself to be swept away by your new surroundings. Belgium is like a box of chocolates, 

let its content surprise you!” 

PRINCELY CHAT 

After the forum, Prince Philippe and his wife, Princess Mathilde, had a conversation with the rest 

of the GROUP T alumni present. Wim Polet, Director of GROUP T’s International Office, talked 

about the importance of its collaboration with China and the furthering of this collaboration by 

expanding the Chinese alumni association that was founded in 2007. 

40

Academic calendar 

FROM 

TILL 

• 16-09-13 - 20-09-13 Welcome Week 

• 23-09-13 - 27-09-13 Mon 23.09: Start academic year, start first semester 

• 28-10-13 - 01-11-13 Fri 01.11: Campus closed 

• 11-11-13 - 15-11-13 Mon 11.11: Campus closed 

• 23-12-13 - 03-01-14 Christmas vacation 

• 06-01-14 - 10-01-14 Fri 10.01: First semester ends 

• 13-01-14 - 31-01-14 Revision and examination period 

• 03-02-14 - 07-02-14 No classes. Campus remains open 

• 10-02-14 - 14-02-14 Examination boards and announcement of results 

Mon 10.02: Start second semester 

• 07-04-14 - 18-04-14 Easter holidays 


• 28-04-14 - 02-05-14 Thu 01.05: Campus closed 

Fri 02.05: Campus closed 

• 26-05-14 - 30-05-14 Thu 29.05, Fri 30.05: Campus closed 

Fri 30.05: Second semester ends 



• 30-06-14 - 04-07-14 Examination boards and announcement of results 

Tue 01.07: Start of registration for 2014-2015 

• 07-07-14 - 11-07-14 Mon 07.07: Summer recess begins 

Fri 11.07: Campus closed 

• 14-07-14 - 18-07-14 Fri 18.07: Registration for third exam period ends 


• 11-08-14 - 15-08-14 Fri 15.08: Campus closed 



Examination boards and announcement of results 

• 15-09-14 - 19-09-14 Welcome Week 

• 22-09-14 - 26-09-14 Mon 22.09: Start academic year 2014-2015 

41

City map and getting to Campus GROUP T 

KU Leuven 

Faculty of Engineering Technology 

Campus GROUP T 

Andreas Vesaliusstraat 13 

3000 LEUVEN 

tel. + 32 16 30 10 30 

fax + 32 16 30 10 40 

info@iiw.kuleuven.be 

info@group-t.com 

www.iiw.kuleuven.be/english 

EXIT 

EXIT 

42

DIENST COMMUNICATIE 

Oude Markt 13 box 5005 

3000 LEUVEN, Belgium 

tel. + 32 16 32 40 10 

fax + 32 16 32 40 14 

onderwijscommunicatie@kuleuven.be 

www.kuleuven.be 

v.u.: Isabelle Van Geet, Oude Markt 13 bus 5005, 3000 Leuven

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