The university operates an active research and development programme, especially in the disciplines of

• Mobile systems and mechatronics,
• Construction / landscaping / environment,
• Materials and process engineering,
• Multimedia technology and design, and
• Economics

The goal is the further development of areas of high-performance research, the acquisition of third-party funds, especially for the creation of additional employment positions, the expansion of the laboratory infrastructure, and the technical training of the university population.

These activities focus on issues connected to applied research in collaboration with mid-sized companies in Saxony. The spectrum covers the creation of appraisals, industrial consultation, participation in trade shows, organisation of conferences and congresses, and inventing, patenting, and applications work.

One special characteristic is the unity of a practical course of studies and applied research under the motto "instructional research – researching instruction". Students have the option to participate in research projects via their bachelor’s, diploma, master’s, and thesis work. Skilled alumni are able to receive their doctorate degrees within the framework of Saxony's cooperative model.