Artificial intelligence is fundamentally transforming the manufacturing industry. Companies that strategically deploy AI, machine learning and cognitive systems gain measurable competitive advantages – in quality assurance, process optimization and automation. The University Course Cognitive Industry Engineering, offered in cooperation with TU Graz Life Long Learning, delivers exactly this competence: scientifically grounded, practice-oriented and directly aligned with industrial production environments.
The course is a cooperation between Pro²Future GmbH, the Competence Center for Excellent Technologies – working with manufacturing companies and universities since 2017 – and TU Graz Life Long Learning. Course content draws on insights from over 100 research projects and more than 340 scientific publications: not theoretical constructs, but proven knowledge from industrial practice.
What You Will Learn
Module I – Technical Foundations: Understanding cognitive systems, selecting embedded, edge and cloud platforms, and applying industrial communication standards such as OPC UA and MQTT.
Module II – Cognitive Data Processing: Machine learning, deep learning and computer vision for prediction, quality assurance and process optimisation in industrial environments.
Module III – Sustainable System Design: Developing secure, compliant AI systems in accordance with the EU AI Act (Art. 4) – including interoperability and distributed architectures.
Practical exercises, real-world industrial case studies and a personal transfer project from participants’ own companies ensure direct knowledge transfer into everyday work.
Who Is This Course For?
The course is designed for professionals and executives from the manufacturing industry who carry or are taking on responsibility for digitalisation, automation or the deployment of AI-based systems: engineers, project managers, software developers, data scientists and technical decision-makers in the fields of Industry 4.0 and Digital Transformation.
Prerequisites: a completed technical qualification (e.g. HTL diploma) or equivalent qualifications with relevant professional experience, as well as basic programming experience.
Course Format and Qualification
The university course is delivered in a blended learning format: a combination of on-site sessions at TU Graz and digital self-study, complemented by expert lectures, interactive workshops and code demonstrations. Participant numbers are limited to 20 to ensure intensive support and meaningful exchange.
Upon successful completion of the examination, participants receive an officially recognised TU Graz certificate worth 5 ECTS credits – a formally recognised proof of AI competence development in accordance with the EU AI Act (Art. 4).
Key Facts
- Course start: 29 May 2026
- Application deadline: 30 April 2026
- Duration: 9 weeks, blended learning
- Qualification: TU Graz certificate, 5 ECTS (upon passing the exam); certificate of participation (without exam)
- Language of instruction: German or English
- Course fee: EUR 4,500 (VAT-exempt), incl. course materials and refreshments
- Location: TU Graz and online
- Maximum participants: 20
- Funding: FFG Skills Schecks 2026, SFG, AMS, Province of Upper Austria (IQV) – details on request
- Discount: Pro²Future partner companies receive preferential rates from 4 participants from the same organisation – details on request
Apply Now
Applications can be submitted by email to or by post. The application form and all further information are available at: https://www.tugraz.at/en/studying-and-teaching/degree-and-certificate-programmes/continuing-education/university-courses/cognitive-industry-engineering
