Program details for master track in Control Systems

Systems Modeling and Applied Control: read the description and watch the video for these compulsory modules.

Systems Modeling

Here you learn to create a white-box model of a real-world process in the electrical, mechanical and chemical domain. How? Using the 4+1 step approach.

You learn to use model representations such as differential equations, transfer functions and state space. And you discover the ins and outs of tools such as Bode plots and Nyquist diagrams.

What about simulating your model? For that you become proficient in MATLAB Simulink. To conclude the modeling process, you validate your model and estimate its parameters.

Part of this 1st module is strengthening your project and research skills.

Topics:

Applied physics
Introduction to modeling
Practice modelling and simulation
Energy-based modeling
System identification
Minor project modeling systems (includes research skills)

Watch the video about the module Systems Modeling

Applied Control

The Applied Control module starts with analyzing a physical system and/or a model. This might be a 1st order, 2nd order or higher order system. Or a linear or nonlinear model or SISO/MIMO system.

You master techniques such as pole–zero plot, Bode, Nyquist diagrams and step responses. These techniques are for determining the requirements of the controlled system. Another important skill you work on is discussing controller specifications with a client. So discussing specifications like stability, offset, settling time, overshoot, phase and gain margin.

You also learn to create an analogue and/or digital feedback controller for a linear physical system. To do this you need to use the right techniques. For example, applying anti-windup and bumpless transfer schemes, selecting resolution and sample rate.

Can you properly communicate your core findings? And justify your choices? During this module, you’ll be fine-tuning your communication skills as well.

Finally, you master the skill of actually applying control strategies. So strategies like feedforward, cascade, compensation and override. How? Using frequency-response and root-locus techniques. And you learn to implement a controller on a suitable platform.

Topics:

Analysis of physical systems and/or models
Pole-zero plot, Bode, Nyquist diagrams, step responses
Controller specifications
Analogue and digital feedback controllers
Control strategies

Watch the video about the module Applied Control

Here you can find the calendar for the current academic year.

2023-2024 academic year

The 2023-2024 academic year has 43 weeks of education and 32 weeks of classes.
The academic year is divided into 2 semesters: one of 19 and one of 20 weeks.

Semester 1: 28 August 2023 to 28 January 2024
Semester 2: 29 January 2024 to 12 July 2024

HAN Intro	21-8-2023 to 25-8-2023
Fall holiday	14-10-2023 to 22-10-2023
Christmas holiday	23-12-2023 to 7-1-2024
Spring holiday	10-2-2024 to 18-2-2024
Good Friday	29-3-2024
Easter Monday	1-4-2024
King's Day	27-4-2024
May holiday	27-4-2024 to 5-5-2024
Liberation Day	5-5-2024
Ascension Day and day following	9-5-2024 and 10-5-2024
Pentecost Monday	20-5-2024
Conclusion academic year	8-7-2024 to 12-7-2024
Summer holiday	13-7-2024 to 18-8-2024
Resits and start up*	19-8-2024 to 25-8-2024

*Not all programs have resits after the summer holidays. Check the dates of exams and resits for your program on HAN Insite.

Here's the schedule of modules and subjects for the Master in Engineering Systems in 2023-2024.

Semester 1: August - January

Monday	Systems Modeling
	Big Data and Small Data
Tuesday	Advanced Vehicle Dynamics
	Sustainable Energy Systems
Wednesday	Applied Control
	Electives: Guest lectures
Thursday	Innovations in Powertrains
Friday	Mathematics

Semester 2: February - July

Monday	Big Data & Small Data
	Hydrogen Technology
Tuesday	Advanced Vehicle Dynamics
	Sustainable Energy Systems
Wednesday	Applied Control
	Electives: Guest lectures
Thursday	Intelligent Mobility
	Innovations in Powertrains
	Embedded Control
	Smart Power Supply
Friday	Mathematics

Finished all the theory? Including labs and minors? Now it’s time for your graduation project. Apply the principles of the program to a real-life industrial setting. Use your technical aptitude. Prove your ability to manage a project. And show your skills in communicating, reporting and presenting.

All master graduation projects are motivated by real-life problems. In most cases, the graduation project-related research is carried out at a company. That means a representative of the company is involved to verify:

(1) whether the thesis results match the expectations of the company.

(2) whether the rated aspects of the master graduation project are relevant for the company.

This gives us valuable feedback on the professional requirements for the intended learning outcomes.

The problem to be solved requires an understanding and active analysis of distinctive disciplines. The project will always include the step from a real-life problem to a more abstract representation of the problem. This restricted representation of the real world is then the basis for the problem analysis. How will you go about this? Using the tools and methods you’ve learned about in the modules.

The problem analysis then leads to a problem solution. Finally, conclusions are drawn about the extent to which the problem has been solved and the objectives fulfilled.

Procedure

During a period of 5-6 months (study load of 840 hours) you will complete a project in an industrial and/or research environment. This project will be supervised by a HAN staff member and an industrial supervisor from the supporting company.

This project will require you to prove your ability to manage a project. You will also need to demonstrate your skills in communicating, reporting and presenting.

You’ll conclude the project by writing a major project, which you will present in an oral examination to a panel. On the panel will be your two supervisors, a further examiner (HAN) and an external expert.

Your choice of setting

You can do your graduation project at the company or institution of your choice. There are conditions though. The company needs to be able to provide a proper assignment, working environment and support. You may also opt to complete the project in a research setting. At HAN University of Applied Sciences or at one of our many partner universities.

Module: Systems Modelling

Here you learn to create a white-box model of a real-world process in the electrical, mechanical and chemical domain. How? Using the 4+1 step approach.

You learn to use model representations such as differential equations, transfer functions and state space. And you discover the ins and outs of tools such as Bode plots and Nyquist diagrams.

What about simulating your model? For that you become proficient in MATLAB Simulink. And to conclude the modelling process, you validate your model and estimate its parameters.

Part of this 1st module is strengthening your project and research skills.

Topics

Applied physics
Introduction to modelling
Practice modelling and simulation
Energy-based modelling
System identification
Minor project modelling systems (includes research skills)

Watch the video about Systems Modelling

Module: Applied Control

The Applied Control module starts with analyzing a physical system and/or a model. This might be a 1st order, 2nd order or higher order system. Or a linear or nonlinear model or SISO/MIMO system.

You master techniques such as pole–zero plot, Bode, Nyquist diagrams and step responses. These techniques are for determining the requirements of the controlled system. Another important skill you work on is discussing controller specifications with a client. So discussing specifications like stability, offset, settling time, overshoot, phase and gain margin.

You also learn to create an analogue and/or digital feedback controller for a linear physical system. To do this you need to use the right techniques. For example, applying anti-windup and bumpless transfer schemes, selecting resolution and sample rate.

Can you properly communicate your core findings? And justify your choices? During this module, you’ll be fine-tuning your communication skills as well.

Finally, you master the skill of actually applying control strategies. So strategies like feedforward, cascade, compensation and override. How? Using frequency-response and root-locus techniques. And you learn to implement a controller on a suitable platform.

Topics

Analysis of physical systems and/or models
Pole-zero plot, Bode, Nyquist diagrams, step responses
Controller specifications
Analogue and digital feedback controllers
Control strategies

Module: Applied Control

The Applied Control module starts with analyzing a physical system and/or a model. This might be a 1st order, 2nd order or higher order system. Or a linear or nonlinear model or SISO/MIMO system.

You master techniques such as pole–zero plot, Bode, Nyquist diagrams and step responses. These techniques are for determining the requirements of the controlled system. Another important skill you work on is discussing controller specifications with a client. So discussing specifications like stability, offset, settling time, overshoot, phase and gain margin.

You also learn to create an analogue and/or digital feedback controller for a linear physical system. To do this you need to use the right techniques. For example, applying anti-windup and bumpless transfer schemes, selecting resolution and sample rate.

Can you properly communicate your core findings? And justify your choices? During this module, you’ll be fine-tuning your communication skills as well.

Finally, you master the skill of actually applying control strategies. So strategies like feedforward, cascade, compensation and override. How? Using frequency-response and root-locus techniques. And you learn to implement a controller on a suitable platform.

Topics

Analysis of physical systems and/or models
Pole-zero plot, Bode, Nyquist diagrams, step responses
Controller specifications
Analogue and digital feedback controllers
Control strategies

Watch the video about Applied Control

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In the 1st semester you follow 2 compulsory modules: Systems Modelling and Applied Control. Below you can find a detailed description and a video for each of these modules.

Systems Modelling

Here you learn to create a white-box model of a real-world process in the electrical, mechanical and chemical domain. How? Using the 4+1 step approach.

You learn to use model representations such as differential equations, transfer functions and state space. And you discover the ins and outs of tools such as Bode plots and Nyquist diagrams.

What about simulating your model? For that you become proficient in MATLAB Simulink. And to conclude the modelling process, you validate your model and estimate its parameters.

Part of this 1st module is strengthening your project and research skills.

Topics:

Applied physics
Introduction to modelling
Practice modelling and simulation
Energy-based modelling
System identification
Minor project modelling systems (includes research skills)

Watch the video about the module Systems Modelling

Applied Control

The Applied Control module starts with analyzing a physical system and/or a model. This might be a 1st order, 2nd order or higher order system. Or a linear or nonlinear model or SISO/MIMO system.

You master techniques such as pole–zero plot, Bode, Nyquist diagrams and step responses. These techniques are for determining the requirements of the controlled system. Another important skill you work on is discussing controller specifications with a client. So discussing specifications like stability, offset, settling time, overshoot, phase and gain margin.

You also learn to create an analogue and/or digital feedback controller for a linear physical system. To do this you need to use the right techniques. For example, applying anti-windup and bumpless transfer schemes, selecting resolution and sample rate.

Can you properly communicate your core findings? And justify your choices? During this module, you’ll be fine-tuning your communication skills as well.

Finally, you master the skill of actually applying control strategies. So strategies like feedforward, cascade, compensation and override. How? Using frequency-response and root-locus techniques. And you learn to implement a controller on a suitable platform.

Topics:

Analysis of physical systems and/or models
Pole-zero plot, Bode, Nyquist diagrams, step responses
Controller specifications
Analogue and digital feedback controllers
Control strategies

Watch the video about the module Applied Control

In semester 2 you can choose 2 elective modules from: Big Data & Small Data, Advanced Controller Design and Distributed Systems. Read the descriptions and watch the videos to find out more!

Big Data & Small Data

This module gives you the skills to make models of complex and non-linear systems. The method? Black-box modelling. You’ll learn techniques such as system identification and creating ARMAX and FIR models. We also take a look at fuzzy, neural networks, PLS and PCA.

What about systems with binary inputs or outputs? You learn to deal with those too. And you become skilled at making hybrid models. These combine the techniques of white- and black-box modeling.

Part of this module is a minor project. Here you focus on the application area of your choice. This could be big data analysis in energy management. Or degrees of freedom and friction in robotics. Or a project on Model Predictive Control.

Topics

System identification
State and parameter estimation
Advanced modelling (minor project)

Watch the video about the module Big Data & Small Data

Advanced Vehicle Dynamics

In this module, you learn to model and validate vehicle dynamics: linear and nonlinear, steady state and non-steady state, without and with (driver) control, emphasizing tires, driver, passenger cars, articulated vehicles and motorcycles.

The theory of AVD is deepened and extended with relevant, actual topics, for example:

vehicle modelling and simulation
control applications in AVD
tire design and performance
race car data analysis
scientific papers on AVD

This will be done with different work forms, for example:

guest lectures from industry and/or research
modelling and simulation assignments
review and presentation of scientific papers
workshops

Embedded Control

In this module, you gain a solid understanding of the principles on which such cyber-physical systems are based, both at the level of theory and capita selecta. In the minor project, these principles are assembled and applied to a real-life physical system that is augmented with sensors, actuators, communication protocols, and processing hard- and software.
On a more fundamental level, the topics to be discussed in this course are:

System design
Distributed systems
Real-time aspects
Communication protocols
Fault-handling
Maintenance

Melaku Semu got his bachelor degree in electrical engineering at Adama University in Ethiopia. He had just started his master degree in electrical power engineering. Then he learned of the Nuffic scholarship for the Master in Control Systems in the Netherlands.

“That was exactly the broader foundation I was looking for. It’s not available anywhere in Ethiopia. At HAN I had the opportunity to acquire a detailed understanding of mechanics, software and electrical engineering.” He decided to move to the Netherlands and become a control systems engineer.

Melaku’s work at Centric Automotive

Centric Automotive is specialized in the development and manufacturing of high-end, highly reliable drive solutions for the rapidly growing market of hybrid and full electric vehicles and boats. But it also converts conventional vehicles into Hybrid and Full Electric Vehicles.

“I utilise parameters such as energy capacity, power density and cost effectiveness. This allows the customer to choose between a more powerful electric drivetrain and a cheaper version. I first run simulations until I find the best possible design for that particular customer. After that we do a Hardware-In-The-Loop Testing (HIL) with standard driving cycles. Only then do we mount it in the vehicle.”

“The team keep me focused”

Melaku is pleased with the possibilities that Centric Automotive BV offers him. “How do I see the future? I hope to keep developing my career by sharing knowledge and transfer skills with my colleagues. At Centric I have the opportunity to achieve my professional goal of becoming a system architect. I’m also very interested in renewable energy, which I believe is an area that will receive a great deal of attention in the future.

The team here at Centric are highly motivated, and keep me focused. Our lines of communication are short, and everyone can be approached directly. They also give me the chance to stay up-to-date in my field, by offering job related trainings on the latest technologies. I’m happy where I am for now.”

Staying updated through the HAN alumni network

Melaku is very positive about how HAN stays in touch with alumni. “After graduation you regularly receive invitations to guest lectures. This allows me to stay in touch with other former students. And it means I stay right on top of the latest developments in my field. Businesses that are leading the way in technological developments give you the opportunity to brush up on very specific subjects.”

“I recently attended a very interesting guest lecture on battery management. It was given by Henk Jan Bergveld. He’s the top of the bill in that field.” Professor Bergveld is associated with Eindhoven University of Technology and is also a senior scientist at NXP Semiconductors.

To follow this program in part-time you need to be an EU/EEA citizen. This is because of visa requirements. As a part-time student, you might be eligible for exemptions. Also, scholarships are usually only for full-time students. So here we also give you tips on reducing your costs.

Exemptions
Part-time students often have prior work experience. Can you show you’ve already covered certain units in the curriculum? Then you may be exempt from parts of the program. You can indicate this on your application.

Tuition fees: reducing your costs
Subsidies. Tax deductions. Grants in the field. An employer who pays part of the costs. A loan from family. There are lots of ways to cover your tuition fee.

This master degree benefits you, but also your employer. That’s why many employers are willing to contribute to study costs. Is your workplace in the Netherlands? Your organization can probably get a special subsidy from the Dutch government called ‘Praktijkleren’.

Want help drawing up a proposal for this subsidy? We can help you substantiate the program’s benefits for you and your organization. We can also schedule a meeting with you and your manager to discuss the benefits of the program.

Paying your own study costs? In most cases you can declare these costs on your income tax return. Read more about declaring study costs on the website of the tax office.

In semester 2 you can choose 2 elective modules from: Big Data & Small Data, Advanced Controller Design and Distributed Systems. Read the descriptions and watch the videos to find out more!

Big Data & Small Data

This module gives you the skills to make models of complex and non-linear systems. The method? Black-box modelling. You’ll learn techniques such as system identification and creating ARMAX and FIR models. We also take a look at fuzzy, neural networks, PLS and PCA.

What about systems with binary inputs or outputs? You learn to deal with those too. And you become skilled at making hybrid models. These combine the techniques of white- and black-box modeling.

Part of this module is a minor project. Here you focus on the application area of your choice. This could be big data analysis in energy management. Or degrees of freedom and friction in robotics. Or a project on Model Predictive Control.

Topics

System identification
State and parameter estimation
Advanced modelling (minor project)

Watch the video about the module Big Data & Small Data

Advanced Vehicle Dynamics

In this module, you learn to model and validate vehicle dynamics: linear and nonlinear, steady state and non-steady state, without and with (driver) control, emphasizing tires, driver, passenger cars, articulated vehicles and motorcycles.

The theory of AVD is deepened and extended with relevant, actual topics, for example:

vehicle modelling and simulation
control applications in AVD
tire design and performance
race car data analysis
scientific papers on AVD

This will be done with different work forms, for example:

guest lectures from industry and/or research
modelling and simulation assignments
review and presentation of scientific papers
workshops

Embedded Control

In this module, you gain a solid understanding of the principles on which such cyber-physical systems are based, both at the level of theory and capita selecta. In the minor project, these principles are assembled and applied to a real-life physical system that is augmented with sensors, actuators, communication protocols, and processing hard- and software.
On a more fundamental level, the topics to be discussed in this course are:

System design
Distributed systems
Real-time aspects
Communication protocols
Fault-handling
Maintenance

Finished all the theory? Including labs and minors? Now it’s time for your major project. Apply the principles of the program to a real-life industrial setting. Use your technical aptitude. Prove your ability to manage a project. And show your skills in communicating, reporting and presenting.

All major projects are motivated by real-life problems. In most cases, the research is carried out at a company. That means a representative of your company is involved to verify:

whether the thesis results match the expectations of the company.
whether the rated aspects of the master graduation project are relevant for the company.

This gives us valuable feedback on the professional requirements for the intended learning outcomes.

The problem to be solved requires an understanding and active analysis of distinctive disciplines. The project will always include the step from a real-life problem to a more abstract representation of the problem. This restricted representation of the real world is then the basis for the problem analysis. How will you go about this? Using the tools and methods you’ve learned about in the modules.

The problem analysis then leads to a problem solution. Finally, conclusions are drawn about the extent to which the problem has been solved and the objectives fulfilled.

Learning Outcomes

During the major project you learn to:

1. Analyze and define problems

Critically analyze the engineering problem through active communication with the problem owner.
Based on this analysis, formulate a problem, come up with feasible approaches towards a solution, draw scientifically valid conclusions and make recommendations, again to be communicated again to the problem owner.

2. Design

Systematically translate the engineering problem to a model at an abstract level, (i.e. reducing it to its essentials in terms of model and problem requirements).
Validate results against the real-life situation and problem formulation.

3. Test

Systematically translate the engineering problem to a concrete level.
Validate results against the real-life situation and problem formulation.

4. Manage work processes

Place engineering activities within the perspective of engineering company processes, including quality control principles.
Incorporate the economical (cost) and societal (safety, sustainability) consequences in the design or development process.

5. Conduct research

Gain specialized scientific knowledge and skills in the field of engineering.

6. Communicate and collaborate

Work on a problem within a multidisciplinary context in an industrial environment.
Work on a problem in an international engineering context in an industrial environment.

7. Work on your professional development

Through self-reflection, improve one’s own professional performance

Procedure

The project is completed during a period of 5 -6 months (study load of 840 hours). You’ll be supervised by a HAN staff member and an industrial supervisor from the supporting company.

This project requires you to prove your ability to manage a project. You’ll also need to demonstrate your skills in communicating, reporting and presenting.

You conclude the project by writing a thesis, which you present in an oral examination to a panel. On the panel will be your  2 supervisors, a further examiner (HAN) and an external expert.

Project setting

You can do the major project at the company or institution of your choice. There are conditions though. The company needs to be able to provide a proper assignment, working environment and support. You may also opt to complete the project in a research setting. At HAN University of Applied Sciences or at one of our many partner universities.

Interested in one of the tracks of the Master of Engineering Systems program? Want to discuss whether it aligns with your goals and background? Let's discuss it during an online meeting!

First check out the admission requirements. Still think the program could be interesting for you? Email us at technicalmasters@han.nl to arrange an online meeting in Teams.

Please include in your email which track you're interested in.

Look forward to meeting you!

Program

Changes to the Control Systems track

Control Systems in a nutshell

Systems modeling and applied control

Compulsory modules

Academic calendar

Modules and lecture days

Track-specific modules

Modules

A good match?

Investigating a control systems issue

Major project

Master of Science

Master of Science

Watch our drone campus tour

Careers

Master in Engineering Systems Compulsory modules

2023-2024 Academic calendar

2023-2024 academic year

Master in Engineering Systems Modules and lecture days 2023-2024

Graduation project

Modules in the 1st semester

modules-in-2nd-semester

Kopjes

Control Systems Modules in the 1st semester

Control Systems track Elective modules in semester 2

Big Data & Small Data

Advanced Vehicle Dynamics

Embedded Control

Alumnus shares his experiences

Studying in part-time

Control Systems track Elective modules in semester 2

Big Data & Small Data

Advanced Vehicle Dynamics

Embedded Control

Master in Engineering Systems Major Project

Online Arrange a meeting