Visual Computing

Program overview

This English-taught Master's program offers advanced training in visual computing, with particular focus on visualization, computer graphics, virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), and computer vision. The curriculum is research-oriented and built to deepen both theoretical understanding and practical skills needed to develop visual computing systems and applications.

Students benefit from modern, specialized facilities and small cohort sizes that enable close contact with teaching staff and involvement in ongoing research projects. The programme is designed to prepare graduates for careers in industry and academia, equipping them for roles in research & development, software engineering, visualization design, and related fields.

The faculty of computer science is recognised as one of the leading centres for visualization research according to Computer Science Rankings, underlining strong research activity and academic expertise in this area. International students can expect a research-focused environment, opportunities to work with cutting-edge technology, and support for career paths both inside Germany and internationally.

Typical application requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a closely related discipline (or equivalent qualification)
• Solid background in mathematics and programming (preparatory coursework may be required if gaps exist)
• Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) if your first language is not English
• Academic transcripts and a curriculum vitae (CV)
• Statement of purpose / motivation letter; letters of recommendation are often requested
• Portfolio or examples of prior work may be beneficial for applicants with graphics/vision experience
• Compliance with visa, residency and funding documentation for non-EU applicants

Check the programme’s official admissions page for exact entry requirements, application deadlines, and any additional documentation or assessment procedures.

Curriculum overview

This two-year (four-semester) Master’s programme combines classroom teaching with hands-on project work. The first semester establishes a common foundation: students take core courses to fill any gaps in their prior knowledge so everyone has the breadth and depth needed for advanced topics. Teaching in this phase focuses on fundamental methods and tools across the visual computing spectrum.

In the second and third semesters students move into more specialised subjects and sustained project activity. Typical advanced modules include areas such as flow visualisation, medical imaging, augmented and virtual reality, flow simulation, and object recognition. The third semester also includes a research-oriented group project where small teams tackle open-ended problems and demonstrate creative, technical application of visual computing methods. The fourth semester is reserved for independent research and writing of the Master’s thesis.

This structure is designed to balance theoretical grounding, hands-on implementation, teamwork and research training — preparing graduates for either industry roles in visual computing or continued research (e.g., a PhD). A sample study plan is provided as a downloadable PDF.

Key modules (examples)

• Foundational courses in core visual computing topics (taken in semester 1 to cover any gaps)
• Advanced/specialised modules such as:
  • Flow visualisation
  • Medical imaging
  • Augmented and virtual reality
  • Flow simulation
  • Object recognition
• Research-oriented group project (typically in semester 3)
• Master’s thesis research (semester 4)

Learning outcomes

• Acquire a broad and technically sound foundation across visual computing
• Gain in-depth knowledge in specialised topics chosen by the student
• Develop practical skills to implement algorithms, visualisations and interactive systems
• Apply visual computing methods to open-ended, real-world problems in a team setting
• Conduct independent research and produce a scientific Master’s thesis that demonstrates critical thinking and creativity

Graduates are prepared for technical and research roles that rely on expertise in visual computing, such as positions in computer graphics, VR/AR development, medical imaging, flow visualisation and computer vision engineering. The programme’s project and thesis components build practical skills valued by industry R&D teams and specialist engineering roles.

For students interested in academia, the research focus and close faculty supervision provide a solid foundation for doctoral studies and research careers. The combination of specialised coursework, hands-on projects and thesis research also supports careers in interdisciplinary teams where visualisation and computational imaging expertise is required.