Informatics: Games Engineering (MSc)

Overview The TUM School of Computation, Information and Technology (CIT) brings together Mathematics, Informatics and Electrical & Computer Engineering to advance both theoretical foundations and real-world applications. Teaching and research at the school span from core disciplinary knowledge to interdisciplinary challenges such as the digital transformation, so students are exposed to a broad, research-driven environment that connects theory with practice.

This research-oriented Master’s programme builds on the fundamentals of computer science and games engineering acquired in undergraduate studies and develops advanced skills in game technologies as well as deeper expertise in two chosen specialisation areas. Graduates are prepared for senior technical or management roles in industry and are also qualified to pursue doctoral research.

Specialisations (choose two)

• Computer Graphics and Animation
• Interaction and Communication
• Hardware-aware Programming
• Numerics and Simulation
• Autonomous Systems
• Game Theory and Algorithmic Economics
• Internet Models, Technologies, Applications
• Visual Computing
• Databases and Information Systems

Key facts and entry-relevant information

• Degree: Master of Science (MSc) in the field of Computer Science
• Language of instruction: English
• Programme orientation: research-focused; builds on undergraduate-level fundamentals in computer science and games engineering
• Intended for applicants with a relevant bachelor’s degree and a strong foundation in core informatics topics
• Career outcomes: prepares graduates for executive or specialist roles in industry and qualifies for PhD studies

For full admission details, curriculum structure and application deadlines, see the official programme page: https://www.cit.tum.de/en/cit/studies/degree-programs/master-informatics-games-engineering/

Overview The two-year Master's programme is organised across four semesters and is designed to be flexible so you can tailor your studies to your preferred sub-areas within games engineering. Over the course of the programme you combine classroom-based learning with hands-on and research-oriented work, enabling both depth and breadth in the technical and creative aspects of game development.

Teaching formats and electives You will take part in lectures, practical modules and seminars, and engage in supervised research projects that deepen technical understanding and problem-solving abilities. The curriculum also offers supplementary elective modules that strengthen non-technical competences relevant to professional life, such as business planning, management techniques, communication skills and intercultural communication — helping you work effectively in international and interdisciplinary teams.

Thesis and learning outcomes The fourth semester is devoted to the Master’s thesis, which gives you the opportunity to carry out an extended research or development project and demonstrate independent mastery of a complex problem in games engineering. On completion of the programme, you will have advanced technical knowledge in games engineering, practical experience from lab and project work, research methodology experience, and enhanced professional skills in management and communication that support careers in industry or further research.

Program requirements (what you must complete)

• Two-year duration, structured as four semesters
• Attendance and participation in lectures, practical modules and seminars
• Completion of research projects during the programme
• Selection of supplementary elective modules (business planning, management, communication, intercultural communication)
• Submission and successful defence/submission of a Master’s thesis in the fourth semester

Graduates are prepared for executive and senior technical positions in industry, particularly within companies focused on game development, interactive systems, simulation and related technologies. The combination of deep technical specialisation and supplementary management and communication training makes alumni suitable for roles that require both technical leadership and project or team management.

The degree also provides a pathway into academic research: the programme’s research orientation and the master’s thesis qualify students to pursue doctoral studies (PhD) or research roles in universities and industrial R&D labs.