Master Computer Science

+++ The Master's in Computer Science will be continued as an English-language Master's from winter semester 2025/26 +++ 

Organization and structure

The Master's program in Computer Science can be studied as a consecutive program leading to a Master of Science (MSc.) degree.

The programme is modular. The courses are spread over 3 semesters. The fourth semester is used to write and defend the Master's thesis. The programme consists of 2 compulsory modules and 6 compulsory elective modules, which allow the student to choose a specialisation (for specialisations, see the study regulations).

3 of the following basic modules must be selected and 36 LP must be completed.

In the 2nd semester, an in-depth module is selected which corresponds to one of the selected subject areas of the basic modules.

The 2 of 4 selected profile modules can only be taken in the following combination:

or

The compulsory section, in which 48 LP must be achieved, includes:

Contents

The Master's programme in Computer Science is more research-oriented. It includes the following study contents:

• Applied computer science: methods for designing and mastering application systems in all their life phases from requirements analysis, design and testing, through commissioning and operation, to maintenance and reconstruction
• Artificial Intelligence: Theories and methods for the design, construction and programming of intelligent systems, in particular pattern recognition, computational logic, machine learning, decision theory and autonomous systems
• Software and multimedia engineering: design, creation, testing and maintenance of complex distributed multimedia software systems, in particular software engineering, collaborative web systems, user interfaces, 3D models, media didactics and information visualisation
• System architecture: basics of operating systems and micro-kernel systems, virtualisation, structure of distributed information systems, programming and management of databases, data security and anonymisation technologies, structure and properties of computer networks, mobile communication technologies, systems engineering
• Computer Engineering: Structure, design and efficient use of technical realisations of computer systems, ranging from embedded systems to normal workstations and servers to parallel and high-performance computers
• Theoretical computer science: Possibilities for formal modelling and analysis in computer science as well as for the algorithmic treatment of the resulting models
• Application subject: Basic knowledge in another field of knowledge relevant to computer science.

Goals

The main objective of the Master's programme in Computer Science at the Technische Universität Dresden is to prepare students for the multifaceted challenges of the dynamically developing discipline of Computer Science. Graduates of the programme should be empowered generalists who can independently and flexibly adapt to changing requirements due to their broad subject knowledge and scientific methodology. Furthermore, they should possess the necessary expertise to be able to devote themselves to both an academic career and a demanding research-oriented industrial activity. They should also be familiar with the basics of various fields of computer science and be able to use the application skills they have acquired during their studies to solve problems in concrete scenarios. Furthermore, they should be able to professionally present and pass on their specialised knowledge in both academic and industrial contexts.

Due to their wide-ranging professional knowledge as well as their expertise in a special field acquired within the scope of the specialisation area, graduates are enabled to cope with diverse and complex tasks in theoretical, technical, practical or applied computer science after a corresponding familiarisation period in professional practice.

Degree

If the Master's examination is passed, the university degree "Master of Science" (abbreviated: M.Sc.) is awarded.

Application

The application for the Master's programme in Computer Science is determined by an aptitude assessment procedure. According to the aptitude assessment regulations, the following proofs are a prerequisite for admission to the degree programme:

• the first professional university degree in computer science
• Proof of sufficient specialist knowledge through 120 credit points with no overlapping content from the following areas:
  • at least 25 credit points from mathematics,
  • at least 12 credit points from Theoretical Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence,
  • at least 12 credit points from computer engineering,
  • At least 35 credit points from practical computer science, of which at least 18 credit points must be earned in the area of programming / software technology
• proof of English language skills at level B2+ of the European Framework of Reference for Languages

Further information on the requirements and the application procedure can be found at: Information for applicants to the Master's programme in Computer Science.

Further information

• Study and examination regulations, study schedule (details on the distribution of teaching forms and classroom teaching) as well as  aptitude assessment regulations (requirements for admission to the Master's degree programme in Computer Science)
• Student advisory service
• Student Council