In an embodiment a sensor element includes at least one carrier layer having a top side and an underside, at least one functional layer arranged at the top side of the carrier layer and comprising a material having a temperature-dependent electrical resistance and at least one top electrode configured for electrically contacting the functional layer from a top side of the functional layer, wherein the top electrode is arranged directly on the functional layer, wherein the top electrode forms the top side of the sensor element, and wherein the sensor element is configured to be integrated as a discrete component directly into an electrical system.