Computer Science
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
Computer Science
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
Overview
In a Nutshell
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.
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science from Paderborn University or in an equivalent or comparable degree program at another university with a final grade of 3.0 or better.
Academic Prerequisits
The degree must have
- at least 20 credit points (CP) in the field of software engineering,
- at least 20 CP in the field of Theoretical Computer Science,
- at least 15 CP in the field of Computer Engineering,
- at least 15 CP in the field of mathematical foundations of computer science.
Language Prerequisits
English language skills, proven by certificates or other documents , showing proof of
- successfully completed school lessons in English from grade 5 for at least five years
- a Bachelor's degree in an English-speaking country - countries in which English is the official language and the language of instruction of the corresponding degree program are considered English-speaking within the framework of these regulations - or in a domestic degree program accredited as English-speaking
- a language test at least at the TOEFL 550 (paper and pencil) or TOEFL 80 (internet-based) level
- Cambridge Test Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) with a minimum grade of B
- IELTS with a minimum score of 6.5
- through equivalent level tests
International students
A foreign student applicant who is not treated as a German student by or on the basis of international treaties must prove his/her eligibility to study by one of the following means:
- a very good final grade of the degree according to §5 paragraph 1 no. 1a) of the General Provisions
- the results of a GRE Revised General Test with, as a rule, at least 157 points in the "Quantitative Reasoning" section and at least 4.0 points in the "Analytical Writing" section of the GRE Revised General Test
- the result of a Test-AS Mastertest Computer Science dMAT with at least 50% of the achievable points
Applicants with a German university entrance qualification are exempt from providing proof of eligibility to study.
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.
Study Program
What’s this Program about?
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.
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 5 following Focus Areas:
- Classical and Quantum Algorithm Design
- Computer and Communication Systems
- Data Science and Intelligent Systems
- Security
- Software Engineering
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.
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.
Rights and Obligations
Links & Downloads
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:
Institute Website
International Office
Future Perspectives
After graduation Master ?
Career Opportunities
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
During the course of your studies, questions about career orientation arise from time to time. In events, practical projects and company visits as well as in the job and career portal, you can get to know possible professions and fields of activity and work out your personal interests and strengths.
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!
PhD
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. The Jenny Aloni Center for Early Career Researchers will provide you with all the information you need.
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.
Get to Know
Study Start and Orientation
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
Not quite right for you? One of our other study programs might be a better fit!