Informatik
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
Informatik
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
Overview
In a Nutshell
You are on the pages of the A-Z study programme of the University of Paderborn.
Unfortunately, you have selected an English-language page which is currently being updated and will be available in a few weeks. For further information on this degree programme, please visit this page.
We wish you continued success in exploring our world of study and look forward to seeing you soon!
We offer an excellent Master’s program in computer science in a world-leading research institute. With currently 1300 students enrolled in our computer science degree program and a scientific staff of 25 professors, the university provides an attractive environment for your studies, based upon a close cooperation of students and teaching staff. The Department of Computer Science regularly acquires top ranks in Germany and has developed a high international reputation.
Academic Prerequisites
- To study at a German university, a general higher education entrance qualification is required.
- You should have a Bachelor of Science in computer science or a related subject.
- Minimum result in this degree: 3.0 according to the German grading system (or equivalent)
The Examinations Board shall determine compliance with these requirements.
Language Prerequisites
- High proficiency of the English language
lf you have not earned your B.Sc. qualification in an English-speaking country, you will need to provide a suitable English language qualification. This can be demonstrated by a TOEFL score of at least 550 (paper and pencil) or 79 (internet-based) or an equivalent qualification (e.g. Cambridge first certificate)
International students who choose to study this course in German must prove they have suffiecient German skills. All informatione can be found on the pages of the International Office.
Please note: International students from non-EU countries need to show a proof of the GRE Revised General Test results. Typically, a score of at least 157 in the part "Quantitative Reasoning" and a minimum of 4 in the part "Analytical Writing" is required. When there is an excellent grade in their bachelor's degree, the examination board can accept a lower number of points, depending on the qualification.
You can find all details about deadlines and your next steps on the general Paderborn University Application Information websites.
International applicants can find all relevant information on the pages of the International Office and on this page under "Contact - Application and Enrollment of international students".
Please check the admission requirements in advance and also consult our departmental website.
Course of Study
What's the Course?
The Master program is a consecutive continuation of the Bachelor program. 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 Software Engineering, Algorithm Design, Networks and Communication, High-Performance and Embedded Computing Systems, and Intelligence and Data;
- are enabled to develop solutions to incompletely defined problems;
- can handle complex, incomplete, and even contradictory information; and
- can structure and formalize problems and solution approaches.
During the master study program 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, organize solutions, lead and represent teams; and
- assess the non-technical effects of computing systems.
Based on this program, the Master students are in the end able to work in high-level professional positions, as well as continue their qualification with a PhD dissertation.
This course of studies is designed to be taught bilingually (English, German), which means that you can choose in which language you would like to study. If examination performances have been completed in English language in a sufficient scope, the degree “Master’s Degree Program [...] in English Language” will be attested on the certificate.
Because English is such an important language for the field of information technology, all students must complete modules and the associated examinations with a scope of at least 24 credit points in English language. Within the framework of regulations this means that lectures and materials are given, or are available, respectively, in English language, and examinations are held in English language. Taking an elective course, for example in the area of languages, helps students further improve their language skills.
Study Contents
What is the structure of the course?
All modules of the Master Degree Program are assigned to one or more Focus Areas. There are 6 following Focus Areas:
- Software Engineering
- Algorithm Design
- Networks & Communication
- Computer Systems
- Intelligence & Data
- Data Science
One of the Focus Areas is to be selected as the “Specialisation Area”. All in all, eight compulsory elective modules (each 6 credit points) of the Focus Areas have to be successfully completed, in doing so, three modules must be completed in the Specialisation Area and modules of at least two different Focus Areas must be completed. Otherwise, there are no restrictions for the eight modules of the Focus Areas. These soft rules allow the student´s to build up their area of expertise rather freely from the modules. Highly specialised studies as well as a broad education are possible.
The Project group (20 credit points), which stretches over two semesters and is occupied by 8 – 16 students, is of particular importance. Over a period of one year, the group works as a self-organised team on a project, which is typically connected to a current research topic of the project team operator. By this, team-orientated working methods, which are common in the professional life are learned and practised.
Furthermore, there are two seminar modules (each 5 credit points) and the Master´s Thesis with 30 credits, which takes up a time frame of about one semester. In addition, there are lectures in a “Studium Generale” module (interfaculty lectures) or an optional subsidiary subject (12 credit points).
Unlike the Bachelor´s, the optional subsidiary subject during the Master´s is not obligatory. Like in the Bachelor´s programme it is however possible to choose one of the offered subsidiary subjects:
- Electrical Engineering
- Mathematics
- Media Studies
- Philosophy
- Business Information Technology
- Economics
Also, an optional other subsidiary subject can be chosen on application. The scope of the subsidiary studies is restricted to 12 credit points. If the taken lectures during subsidiary studies correspond to the plans for the Master´s studies, the subsidiary subject will be explicitly mentioned in the Master’s degree certificate.
12 credit points are dedicated to the Studium Generale (or the optional subsidiary subject). Most international student´s take the opportunity to visit German courses in their interfaculty lectures to fulfil the requirements of the examination regulations, of reaching level A2 of the German language. Alternatively, every lecture at the university can be visited for the Studium Generale. Also the active participation in the university choir, theatre AG or the big band can count towards the Studium Generale.
Generally, the Studium Generale function as general education and should be seen as a chance to broaden one´s horizon.
Nevertheless, the stadium Generale must be graded, but only counts to a small extent to the final grade. Generally, courses in Computer Science cannot be visited.
Computer Science Master, Q&A for prospective students
Are you planning to study in our Master program in Computer Science? Or did you already apply or have even already been accepted? Then this live stream is for you! We try to give useful information here and you can ask your questions – we'll do our best to answer them or tell you where to find answers. Which requirements do I need to meet to qualify? What about the language, do I need to know German? What does the Master program look like? Which areas can I specialize in? What is a seminar, and what is a project group? These might be some of the questions we can discuss here. However, you will be asking – and maybe your questions are totally different ones. We'll give our best to provide the answers.
04:44 Introduction
10:28 Current status of applications and acceptance emails and letters
15:15 Upcoming semester: online, hybrid or presence?
18:51 Welcome week/orientation phase
21:30 German language courses
28:00 Studienleistung (qualified participation) and project groups
37:24 Letters of acceptance
39:06 Semester times: Beginning and end of lectures, holidays
45:22 Semester abroad
47:00 Deferring study start to summer 2022
49:40 Semester abroad (revisited)
52:30 Internships and working while studying
59:00 Specialization in the master program
1:11:10 Extra semesters, minimum/maximum time span to complete the program
1:19:30 German language courses for students who already know some German
1:21:00 Wrap-up
Possibilities
Study Abroad
The Department of Computer Science has a number of exchange programmes with foreign universities (among others in the US, Australia, Chine and India). We will also be happy to support you in organising your own stay abroad.
Further information:
Institutsseite zu Auslandskontakten
International Office
Practical Orientation
Research and technology transfer are one of the most important priorities at the Department of Computer Science. Thus, prospective graduates of the Department of Computer Science get the opportunity to gain insights into interdisciplinary research, to work hand in hand with scientists and to establish first contacts with industrial partners through our renowned research institutions such as the Paderborn Center for Parallel Computing (PC²) or the Software Innovation Campus Paderborn (SICP).
The SICP - Software Innovation Campus Paderborn (SICP) is a strategic research and innovation network of the Paderborn University and numerous companies with other partners from business, science and society. The SICP deals with the topics of digitalization in a trans-organizational and interdisciplinary way. Together, the members of the SICP research, design and develop software- and data-driven innovations for the digitally networked society. The goal of the SICP is to form a powerful, trans-organizational institution that links excellent research via application orientation and collaboration with effective research and science transfer. The campus model of the SICP provides for close cooperation between science and industry.
What does the future of engineering look like? Fraunhofer IEM in Paderborn works on convincing solutions to this question, covering the business idea, implementation, and market success stages in the process. Through it all, the focus is on intelligent products, production systems, services, and software applications. Scientists take an interdisciplinary approach to working on new methods, tools, and processes – and use innovative technologies to ensure the long-term competitiveness of customers and partners. Fraunhofer IEM offers jobs for student assistants, assignments for term papers and bachelor or master theses and is looking for dedicated computer sciences or engineering graduates to work on industrial and research projects. Jobs & Career - Fraunhofer IEM
The Paderborn Center for Parallel Computing (PC²) is a scientific institute Paderborn University and a National High Performance Computing Center in the NHR network. PC²'s research focuses on the development of new methods for programming and using parallel computer systems for scientific computing and the investigation of innovative, heterogeneous computer architectures. As a National High Performance Computing Center, the PC² operates several supercomputer systems to provide computing resources to researchers from all over Germany and offers consulting and training services for the education and training of users.
The Heinz Nixdorf Institute is an interdisciplinary research institute whose research focuses on intelligent technical systems. In cooperation between Computer Science and Engineering, concepts are designed for these systems, which are adaptable, robust, user-friendly and act with foresight. The Heinz Nixdorf Institute imparts technical, methodological and social skills and prepares those interested to assume responsibility in business and science. Around 20 young scientists complete their doctorates here every year.
The Bielefeld-Paderborn Joint Artificial Intelligence Institute follows a trans- and interdisciplinary approach, focusing on the interplay between AI and applications, as well as studying ethical, legal, and social implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Its goal is to lay the foundations for human-centered AI systems that act as competent partners and feature real-world problem-solving abilities in specific domains. Instead of replacing humans, such systems will complement and empower humans by supporting them interactively in decision-making processes.
Perspectives
How's it going after the Master ?
Areas of Activity
With a Master's degree in computer science you will have excellent career prospects. Computer scientists work in areas as diverse as embedded systems, medicine or multimedia. Team-oriented work with partners from all over the world is a characteristic of today's computer science jobs. With our Master's program you will acquire skills that are highly valued in industry. Our program also provides a solid foundation for research work, later culminating in a PhD degree. Paderborn offers numerous opportunities for jobs both in the IT sector and in the engineering industry in international companies.
With a master degree in computer science you will have multiple options for your career within the IT-industry as well as in alternative areas (e.g. public administration, insurances, banks, commercial business). Possible occupational areas include:
- Research (PhD-studies, work in academic or non-academic research institutions)
- Software development
- Development of software components used in hardware
- Administration of computers and networks
- IT-security
- Web development and multimedia design
- IT-support and IT-consulting
- Marketing of hard- and software
Throughout the course of your degree, you may have some questions regarding vocational guidance and goal-setting. As the gateway between university and working life, the Career Service is on hand to answer all your career planning questions. Want to find out about potential careers, forge contacts with employers, identify your personal strengths and interests or clarify specific questions about starting out in a given career? Then make sure that you take advantage of the university’s comprehensive range of talks and workshops, practical projects, job and career portal and vocational preparation certificate upb+.
Interested in the start-up scene? Then visit us at TecUP! We promote start-ups in Paderborn and will support you on your path to self-employment. We’ll be by your side throughout every stage of the start-up process – completely free of charge and with no obligation! garage33 is our dedicated space for creativity and exchange, networking and working. In addition to tailored coaching, we also offer workshops and events for you to learn the theory and practice of setting up a business in an innovative and creative environment, and to help you formulate, develop and validate your idea.
Want to start a business, but lack the seed capital to do so? We can help you apply for grants and put you in touch with our network of business angels and investors. Or merely looking to get an insight into start-ups, for some inspiration or to network with business founders? Then visit our courses or events, such as CALL FOR IDEAS, apply for a start-up job or simply visit us at garage33 – we look forward to meeting you!
Promotion
On completion of your degree, you can also choose to continue your studies with a PhD programme, thereby gaining the experience and qualifications you’ll need to subsequently take up a research position at a university or non-university research institution.
Our “Einblick!” (insights) peer mentoring programme gives female students in the final stages of their degree the chance to discuss doing a PhD and to prepare for a PhD. Participants are teamed up with a female PhD student, who, based on her own experience, gives them tips and strategies to assist them with their decision to pursue a PhD. The aim of the programme is to give participants insights into the kind of academic and research work involved in a PhD and for them to talk to their mentor about her experience in order to build on their personal and professional skills and broaden their development opportunities.
The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, and Mathematics provides students pursuing postgraduate qualifications with support. The team at the Postgraduate Centre will be more than happy to provide you with information and advice.
Should I Do A PhD? | Introduction | Q&A
In the new video series "Should I do a PHD?" our scientists answer all questions about careers in science and research on specific topics.
The first video is about the introduction of the scientists.
More "Should I Do A PhD?" videos can be found here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgDIYPioG-BBHPJj85l1U0Opl3ZYfy3Tl
Get to Know
Start the Studies
Orientation Days
To make the best of your start at the University of Paderborn we offer the Orientation Days (also called "O-Phase"), which takes place before the lecture period starts. Here, you will get the necessary support to be able to orient yourself at the University and in your studies. Take the time to participate actively in the offered events to have all the necessary tools for a good start into your studies!
Related Studies
Maybe one of our other courses suits you better?
Campus life
Campus life
There’s far more to studying at Paderborn University than just your degree course. Those thirsty for knowledge, those seeking discussion and debate and all those looking for something new can, for example, benefit from the opportunity to learn a new language or build on their existing language skills at the university’s Centre for Language Studies or brush up their software skills on a doIT course. IMT:Media offers dedicated media workstations on which you can give your creativity free reign, while the university’s wide and varied sports programme ranges from Aikido to Zumba. Or why not get involved with the university’s radio station L’UniCo or its “universal” magazine or join one of our multitude of project groups or initiatives.
Culture
A regular programme of plays and shows performed by our University Drama Group, poetry slams and readings, our big band and university choir are just a few examples of the diverse cultural activities and events on offer at Paderborn University. One particular highlight is our AStA (German General Students’ Committee) summer festival: Up to 15,000 people each year attend what is probably Germany’s largest outdoor campus festival, to enjoy the summer party vibes to the beats of a host of local student bands, plus well-known headliners on a number of stages.
Campus
Almost all of Paderborn University’s buildings are located on campus, with ample green spaces for relaxing and plenty of places to eat: “Mensa Academica”, “Mensa Forum”, “Grill | Café” and “Caféte”, as well as “Lädchen”, our small campus kiosk. Everything is within easy reach, within just a short walking distance. Our library is also centrally located, and a great place to study, thanks to its handy opening hours.
Accommodation
If you’d like to live on or close to campus, you can apply to Paderborn University’s Student Union for a place in university accommodation. You can also find private accommodation to rent, both near the university and city centre and in Paderborn’s various residential areas though the usual housing portals.
Finance
Students who need or wish to work alongside their degree should easily be able to fit a part-time job around their studies. A scholarship or BAföG federal student grant or loan are further options to help you fund your course and living expenses.
Advisory services
We have the right contact point for every question and concern. Our advice and service centres, for example, are on hand to answer any questions you may have about your academic or research work, applying for your dream job, funding options and much more.
Our university is a cosmopolitan university, with a clear gender and diversity policy. We have been actively promoting equal opportunities and a gender and family-friendly work and study culture for a number of years now. This includes helping students achieve a better study-life balance and supporting students with health issues.
Do you still have questions?
Chat with us
THE RIGHT CONTACT POINT FOR EVERY CONCERN
The Central Student Advisory Service (ZSB)
E-Mail: zsb(at)upb(dot)de
Phone:05251/60-2007
You are in the right place with the following concerns
We support prospective students in their choice of studies and in their decision to study. In addition, we advise students in all phases of their studies, especially in phases of reorientation.
International Office
E-Mail: io-info(at)zv.uni-paderborn(dot)de
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- How do I apply as an international student? Which prerequisites do I have to bring?
- What opportunities do I have to go abroad during my studies?
- Where can I get information about studying abroad (application deadlines and procedures, internships, scholarships)?
Students Council Mathematics/Computer Science/Informatics
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- What's this course of studies about?
- What does the "student-life" look like? What does a week at uni look like?
- How much do students like what they do at uni?
- What social activities and possibilities are there next to the formal university studies?
- What fields of specialisation do other students recommend?
- What happens in the first weeks at university? (Orientation week)
Registrar’s Office
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Information and advice on application, admission and enrolment matters
- Processing of applications for change of degree programme, change of subject, leave of absence, exmatriculation, secondary enrolment
- Registration for the qualifying examination
- Health insurance matters
- Re-registration matters
Uni-Assist
You are in the right place with the following concerns
Please apply for this program, regardless of your nationality, via the Uni-Assist Online Portal, if you don't have a German University Entrance Qualification.
Bildungsinländer*innen
You are in the right place with the following concerns
If you don't have the German citizenship, but have received your university entrance qualification from a German school inside or outside of Germany (= Bildungsinländer*innen), apply for the program directly at the online portal PAUL of the admissions office. (Please initially supply a grade of 4,0; follow further instructions by email after registration in the online system.)
International Office
E-Mail: io-info(at)zv.uni-paderborn(dot)de
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- How do I apply as an international student? Which prerequisites do I have to bring?
- What opportunities do I have to go abroad during my studies?
- Where can I get information about studying abroad (application deadlines and procedures, internships, scholarships)?
Examination Office
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Counselling on examination-related questions of the study programme
- Processing of admissions and registrations for examinations with limited repeatability
- Processing withdrawals from examinations due to illness
- Recording examination results
- Administration of study performance accounts, certificates of grades and module assignments
- Transfers to the current version of the examination regulations
- Issuing certificates, diplomas, diploma supplements and transcripts of records
- Issuing duplicates and certificates to internal and external university administrative offices
- Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)
Service Centre for Studying with Disabilities
E-Mail: s-m-b(at)upb(dot)de
Phone:05251/60-5498
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Advice on all questions related to studying
- Procurement and rental of aids
- Barrier-free campus tours
- Provision of information on the barrier-free campus
- Advice on compensating for disadvantages
FamilienServiceBüro
You are in the right place with the following concerns
We support you in balancing your studies and family life.