Széchenyi István University has launched a unique, English-taught Master’s programme in Motorsport Engineering, the only one of its kind in Central Europe. The inaugural cohort consists of eleven students who have recently commenced their studies. Among the faculty are several professionals with Formula 1 experience, as well as engineers from teams that have won world championships in other branches of motorsport.

Széchenyi István University plays a significant role in providing practical, industry-oriented training for professionals capable of addressing the challenges of the automotive industry and remaining competitive in the international job market. The institution has expanded its academic portfolio with a distinctive Master’s programme that has garnered international interest and offers a unique opportunity for those passionate about technical sports in the Central European region. The first cohort of the Motorsport Engineering programme consists of eight Hungarian and three international students, who began their studies in February at the University’s Audi Hungaria Faculty of Automotive Engineering. This two-semester, English-taught course provides state-of-the-art knowledge in the design, testing, and operation of racing vehicles.

Students of the first cohort of the Motorsport Engineering Master's programme at Széchenyi István University.
(Photo: András Adorján)

"The programme features renowned experts with extensive experience in motorsport, including those still active in the field. Among them is Claude Rouelle, a former Formula 1 and IndyCar race engineer and a globally recognized specialist in vehicle dynamics simulation. Additionally, students will learn from engineers who have contributed to multiple world championship titles in their respective teams. These include Dániel Boriszov from the World Touring Car Cup, Bettina Szelezsán, who brings expertise from the World Rally Championship, and Máté Matuska, who has achieved outstanding success with his Austrian racing team at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Furthermore, several professionals from Formula 1 are also involved in the programme, such as Dr Sándor Kling, currently an engineer at Williams, and Andor Hegedűs, who previously worked for Red Bull and now contributes his expertise to Aston Martin. The latter played a crucial role in achieving record-breaking pit stop times of under two seconds," stated Professor Dr Dániel Feszty, Head of the Department of Vehicle Development at Széchenyi István University.

He further emphasized the industry relevance of the programme, noting that these distinguished experts were eager to participate. "The curriculum is structured in six modules, combining theoretical instruction with extensive hands-on project work. Students will gain proficiency in data collection and analysis, race car powertrain systems, various setup configurations, aerodynamics, design and testing," he highlighted.

Szabolcs Kiss, Operational Director of the Motorsport Engineering Programme, Dániel Boriszov, Race Engineer, and Professor Dr Dániel Feszty, Head of the Department of Vehicle Development.
(Photo: András Adorján)

"When I first heard about Széchenyi István University’s new programme, I felt a bit envious of today’s students, as completing this Master’s degree will give them a significant competitive advantage. At the beginning of my career, acquiring such focused, practical knowledge would have been incredibly beneficial. I gladly joined as an instructor because I see it as my mission to support talented young professionals on this path," commented Dániel Boriszov, a race engineer. He commented that it is not enough to have theoretical knowledge of vehicle dynamics and the workings of a Formula 1 car. In real-world scenarios, engineers must quickly respond to unforeseen challenges that arise at the track. These aspects are also covered in the programme." underscoring the importance of practical skills. 

"Motorsport is like the automotive industry—only accelerated. Problems require immediate solutions, and the effects of decisions become apparent much faster. It is a highly exciting field that demands specialized expertise. This is precisely what the motorsport engineering programme provides." the faculty member highlighted.

One of the international students, Australian Pierre Moccand works in the bank sector in Budapest as an ESG expert, however motorsport has been his passion since childhood. "It's a dominant aspect in my life, having raced formula cars in my twenties and moving through sports cars and historics, almost always self-maintaining and setting them up. I am always looking for better professional knowledge and a Masters degree in motorsport is quite frankly a dream. Years ago, I watched the development of the Masters in Motorsport at Cranfield University in England with envy, but distance and cost were barriers. When I read about the new degree programme in Győr, I was ecstatic and I immediately applied.”  

Pierre mentioned it feels a bit weird for him to be back at university almost being 50 years old, but he is sure he will gain outstanding knowledge and networking from Széchenyi University.
He added: "Hungary is full of surprises, and most people are unaware of how many unique, cutting-edge programmes like this are available in English. This course is another great example - a programme filled with leading motorsport professionals as lecturers and outstanding content. The chance to meet and learn from current world champion professionals and teams in multiple motorsport areas is fantastic."

The next intake for the programme will be in the spring semester, starting in February 2026. The programme's official information page is available here.