Master of Science in Computer Science

Overview

This English-taught MSc builds on your undergraduate training to deepen formal, algorithmic and mathematical skills. You will learn to model and analyse problems using formal methods, keep up with current research, and gain substantial, specialist knowledge in one self-chosen Focus Area. The available Focus Areas are: Classical and Quantum Algorithm Design, Computer and Communication Systems, Data Science and Intelligent Systems, Security, and Software Engineering.

The programme trains you to tackle partially specified, complex or even contradictory problems: you will learn to structure and formalise problem statements and solution strategies, and to derive robust, well-founded approaches under uncertainty. You will also be exposed to up-to-date research results so you can develop deep expertise in your chosen field and contribute to advancing that area.

Beyond technical skills, the curriculum includes methods and project-management competencies necessary for designing and implementing computing models, systems and processes. Graduates are prepared to apply innovative methods, lead and organise teams, define research or project goals, allocate tasks, represent teams, and evaluate the broader, non-technical impacts of computing systems. On completion, graduates are qualified for high-level professional roles or to continue with doctoral research.

Program expectations and outcomes (concise)

• Build advanced formal, algorithmic and mathematical competences based on undergraduate studies
• Use formal methods to describe and analyse problems
• Acquire current research knowledge and deep expertise in one Focus Area (see list above)
• Develop solutions for incompletely defined, complex or contradictory problems
• Structure and formalise problems and solution approaches
• Gain methods and project-management skills to design/implement computing models, systems and processes
• Apply innovative methods and contribute to computing as a scientific discipline
• Define goals and tasks, organise solutions, lead and represent teams
• Assess non-technical effects of computing systems
• Prepared for high-level professional positions or continuation to a PhD dissertation

Curriculum overview

The programme is structured around modules and totals a workload of 120 ECTS. Teaching modules typically combine a lecture with tutorial sessions. You are required to complete nine such course modules (6 ECTS each). These modules are organised into five thematic focus areas—Classical and Quantum Algorithm Design; Computer and Communication Systems; Data Science and Intelligent Systems; Security; and Software Engineering—so you can either specialise in one area or take a broad mix across several. There are no compulsory course modules, and you do not need to choose a specialisation when you enrol; you can follow your interests and build your study profile as you progress.

Alongside the technical modules, the programme includes a 6‑ECTS Key Skills component that trains you in scientific working methods, academic writing and publication practice, and presentation skills. A central element is the one‑year student project carried out in groups of around 8–16 students (20 ECTS), giving hands‑on experience in research‑related work and teamwork. The final semester is reserved for the Master’s thesis (30 ECTS), which consolidates your independent research and subject mastery. You also earn 12 ECTS from General Studies electives (a good place for language courses—non‑German speakers are advised to take German classes).

Key modules and expected learning outcomes

• Focus-area modules (6 ECTS each) covering algorithm design (including quantum approaches), systems and communications, data science and intelligent systems, security, and software engineering — develop advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills relevant to modern computer science problems.
• Key Skills (6 ECTS) — learn to conduct scientific research, prepare publications, and present results professionally.
• Student project (20 ECTS) — apply research methods in a team setting, gain project management and collaborative problem‑solving experience over one year.
• Master’s thesis (30 ECTS) — demonstrate ability to plan, execute, and report an independent research project.
• General Studies (12 ECTS) — broaden your profile with interdisciplinary courses; recommended for international students to include German language training.

Requirements (concise)

• Total workload: 120 ECTS
• Nine course modules (6 ECTS each) drawn from five focus areas; no compulsory modules and flexible specialisation
• Key Skills module: 6 ECTS (scientific methods, writing, presentations)
• Student project group: 20 ECTS (teams of ~8–16, year‑long, research‑related)
• Master’s thesis: 30 ECTS (last semester dedicated to thesis writing)
• General Studies: 12 ECTS (electives; German courses recommended for non‑German speakers)

Graduates are prepared for high-level professional positions in industry and research, able to design and implement computing models, systems, and processes, lead teams, and assess non-technical effects of computing systems. The programme’s strong formal, algorithmic and mathematical emphasis and the opportunity to specialise in one of five focus areas also make graduates well qualified to pursue doctoral studies (PhD) or research-oriented careers.