Master of Science in Computer Science

Based on their undergraduate experience the students earn additional formal, algorithmic, and mathematical competences as they are enabled to describe and analyse problems with formal methods; acquire up-to-date research results and detailed, deep knowledge from a self-chosen area within the so-called Focus Areas, which are Classical and Quantum Algorithm Design, Computer and Communication Systems, Data Science and Intelligent Systems, Security, and Software Engineering; are enabled to develop solutions to incompletely defined problems; can handle complex, incomplete, and even contradictory information; and can structure and formalise problems and solution approaches. During the Master's study programme the students acquire competences on methods and project management, which enable them to design and implement computing models, systems, and processes; apply innovative methods; develop the area of computing as a scientific discipline; define goals and topics, infer task assignments, organise solutions, lead and represent teams; and assess the non-technical effects of computing systems. Graduates will be able to work in high-level professional positions, as well as continue their qualification with a PhD dissertation. The programme is organised in modules, with an overall workload of 120 ECTS credit points. Course modules usually consist of a lecture together with tutorials. Students must complete nine of these modules (6 ECTS credits each) in total. These course modules belong to one or more of five focus areas: Classical and Quantum Algorithm Design, Computer and Communication Systems, Data Science and Intelligent Systems, Security, and Software Engineering. Students can decide whether to specialise in one of these areas or not to specialise and gain broad knowledge in most or all of these areas. There is no need to decide on whether or where to specialise when joining the programme. Instead, students can study along their interests and passion, deciding along the way. This means that students are almost completely free to choose any modules they are interested in. Among these modules, there are no compulsory subjects. In addition to the course modules, a module to acquire "Key Skills" (6 ECTS credits) has to be taken. Students will learn how to work scientifically, write scientific publications and give presentations. Another main element of the Master's programme is the student project group (20 ECTS credits). In the project group, teams of about eight to sixteen students work together on a research-related project for one year. The final part of the programme is the preparation and writing of the Master's thesis (30 ECTS credits); the last semester is reserved for writing this thesis. 10 additional credit points must be earned in general studies, with a choice of courses from a variety of fields. It is recommended that international (non-German speaking) students take German language courses as part of their general studies. PDF Download