FAQ – MTE

What is the MTE Master?

The Master in Management, Technology and Entrepreneurship (MTE) at EPFL is designed for engineers and scientists looking to bridge technology and business. It combines technical expertise with management knowledge to prepare students for leadership roles in technology-driven industries or to launch their own startups.

Why choose the Master in Management, Technology and Entrepreneurship (MTE)?

  • Combine technical and business expertise to gain a competitive edge in today’s job market.
  • Exceptional career outcomes: Over 75% of students find their first job before graduation or within 1-3 months, and 95% secure employment within 6 months.
  • Stay ahead of industry trends with a curriculum designed for the evolving tech landscape.
  • Develop a varied skill set through hands-on projects and real-world business challenges.
  • Unlock diverse career opportunities in leadership roles, entrepreneurship, and corporate innovation.
  • Learn from renowned professors and industry experts.
  • Benefit from our exclusive mentoring program, connecting you with experienced professionals.
  • Join a selective, multicultural environment with peers from diverse academic and international backgrounds.
  • Gain practical experience through a 6-month industry project with leading companies.

What degree will I earn?

You will earn a Master of Science (MSc) in Management, Technology and Entrepreneurship and the title of EPFL Engineer.

Is the program taught in English?

Yes, the entire program is taught in English.

Are there presentations or info sessions about the MTE program?

  • EPFL INFO SESSIONS: The MTE section organizes an information session about the program every year in December. These sessions are specifically designed for EPFL students who want to learn more about the curriculum, admission process, and career opportunities. Invitations and details are shared via email, so make sure to check your EPFL email account regularly.
  • EPFL MASTER INFO DAYS:  Each year in February, EPFL organizes the Master info days, an event open to both EPFL and external students. During this event, the MTE (Master in Technology and Entrepreneurship) program will be present, allowing you to explore the program, meet representatives, and gather information about your academic and professional opportunities.
  • MTE VIRTUAL MEETINGS: the MTE team is available to answer your specific questions, please contact [email protected] to book a meeting.

How long is the MTE Master?

The program lasts 2 years (3 semesters of coursework + a 6-month industry master project). 

How many ECTS credits does the program include?

The program includes 120 ECTS credits:

  • 30 ECTS for core courses
  • 30 ECTS for a disciplinary minor
  • 30 ECTS for electives
  • 30 ECTS for the master project in industry

For more details, visit the MTE Program Structure page.

What is the disciplinary minor?

The disciplinary minor consists of 30 ECTS credits in a specific technical field (e.g., computer science, electrical engineering, etc.). It is assigned by the admission committee based on your bachelor’s studies.

  • The disciplinary minor is a mandatory part of the MTE master curriculum.
  • In exceptional cases, students can ask for another minor in a related technical field, should they have the prerequisites. The request needs to be addressed to the MTE section and properly motivated.
  • The choice of courses must be approved by the MTE section and by the concerned minor advisors.
  • For MTE students, the disciplinary minor includes master-level courses only. Exceptions must be approved by the minor advisor and by the MTE section, and if approved, the bachelor courses should not exceed 8 credits.
  • The disciplinary minor is successfully passed when at least 30 ECTS are obtained among the courses which have been specified for each student.
  • Minors in Financial Engineering and in Management, Technology & Entrepreneurship are not open to MTE master students.

How to proceed?

  • During the first week of the first semester, the students can contact the Deputy Head of Section in order to discuss the organization of their minor.
  • The students must contact the concerned minor advisor to discuss their choice of courses.
  • Each student must fill out a form with the list of the chosen courses. This form must be signed by the concerned minor advisor and returned to the MTE section secretariat by the end of October.
  •  

Can I choose any minor?

No, the minor must be relevant to your bachelor’s degree and approved by the MTE section. Minors in Financial Engineering and Management, Technology & Entrepreneurship are not open to MTE students.

What is the master project in industry?

The Master Project in Industry is a six-month research-focused internship conducted during the final semester of the Master in Management, Technology and Entrepreneurship (MTE) program. You will work closely with a company or startup, applying your skills to address real-world business and technology challenges. This project is supervised by both EPFL faculty and industry professionals, providing a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and build your professional network.

For more information, visit the MTE Master Project page.

When are the application deadlines?

There are two application periods:

  • First period: mid-November to December 15
  • Second period: December 16 to March 31

Decisions are sent by the EPFL Admissions Office by late March for applications registered by the 15th of December and mid-June for the applications registered by the 31st of March. You can freely choose to apply by the December deadline or the March deadline. Regardless of which deadline you choose to meet, studies begin in early September, following acceptance.

Students requiring a visa should apply by December 15 to allow sufficient time for the visa process, which can take up to 3 months.

For more info visit our Application & Admission page

When does the program start?

The program starts in September of each year.

What are the eligibility criteria?

To apply, you need:

  • A bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, or a related field.
  • English proficiency 
  • A strong motivation for management, technology, and entrepreneurship.

How do I apply?

Applications are submitted online via the EPFL admissions portal. You will need to provide:

  • Your CV
  • Academic transcripts
  • A letter of motivation
  • Two letters of recommendation (not required for EPFL bachelor students)

How many students are admitted each year?

The program is highly selective, with approximately 40 to 50 students admitted annually out of several hundred applications.

Can I visit the EPFL campus before applying?

Yes! Discover EPFL through our guided tours! Explore the campus and its unique atmosphere, visit our exhibitions, or learn about our energy production systems. You can also explore the campus anytime through our virtual tour. 

What kind of career does the MTE program prepare me for?

The MTE program prepares you for diverse, high-demand roles across industries, including:

  • Data Analyst
  • Business Strategy Analyst
  • Supply Chain Analyst
  • Financial Analyst
  • AI/Machine Learning Engineer
  • Sustainability Consultant
  • Project Management Intern
  • Marketing Analyst
  • Startup Founder/Cofounder

The program equips you with strategic thinking, risk management, and expertise in technology, management, and entrepreneurship.

For comprehensive details, visit the MTE Career Prospects page.

Does the program offer mentoring or networking opportunities?

Yes! The MTE program includes an exclusive mentoring program that connects students with experienced professionals and alumni during their 1st year. 

How do I join the MTE Mentoring Program?

The MTE mentoring program is only open to students enrolled in the Master program in Management Technology & Entrepreneurship (no exchange or minor).

 Each year, all new MTE students automatically participate in the program and are paired with an industry mentor at the start of the academic term. For more details on the process and what to expect, visit the MTE Mentoring Program page.

Is the MTE Master a multicultural program?

Absolutely! The program attracts students from diverse cultural backgrounds speaking many different languages. Students also have diverse academic backgrounds, including computer science, electrical engineering, environmental sciences, and more.

Are there student associations or clubs?

Yes, the Society of Managerial Engineering Students (SME) is the student association for MTE students. It organizes networking events, workshops, and social activities to enhance your student experience.

Follow SME on Instagram: epflsme

If you wish to explore all active students’ associations at EPFL, please visit this page.

Is it possible to work part-time during the program?

While the MTE Master program is intensive, some students may be able to work part-time (up to 15 hours per week) under specific conditions. For detailed rules and eligibility, please refer to this page.

Where is the MTE program located?

The program is based at the EPFL campus in Lausanne, Switzerland, in the Odyssea Building (Office 3.18).

How can I contact the MTE team?

You can reach the MTE team at:

  • Email: [email protected]
  • Phone: +41 (0)21 693 01 22
  • Address: Odyssea Building, EPFL, Station 5, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland

Where can I find information to prepare for my arrival at EPFL?

You can find all the details about housing, registration, orientation events, and more on the EPFL New Master Students page. This page is designed to guide you through every step of your arrival.

Is health insurance mandatory for master students at EPFL?

Yes, for all students in Switzerland. To learn about your options and how to subscribe or be exempted, visit the EPFL Health Insurance page.

I’m an international student. Where can I find information about visas and immigration?

If you are coming from abroad, check the EPFL Immigration page for detailed information about , and other immigration procedures.

Is there a welcome guide for new master students?

Yes! EPFL provides a Welcome Guide for new students (PDF), which includes practical tips, important contacts, and everything you need to know to start your journey at EPFL.

Who can I contact if I have questions about my arrival or administrative procedures?

For any questions related to your arrival or administrative procedures, you can contact the :

What housing options are available for students at EPFL?

EPFL offers several housing options for master students:

  • Student Halls (Cité Universitaire): Affordable and convenient rooms on or near campus. These are managed by the Fondation des Étudiants de l’UNIL et de l’EPFL (FEU). Learn more and apply here.

  • Private Housing Database: EPFL provides a database of private housing options (apartments, studios, shared flats) in Lausanne and surrounding areas. Browse the housing database.

  • External Housing Websites: Additional listings are available on external platforms like Homegate, Comparis, or Anibis. Explore external housing options.