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Computer Science (M.Sc.)

Three students working together on a computer screen. A television with program code is visible in the background. An orange-colored graphic with the inscription "Computer Science (M.Sc.)" overlays the lower part of the image.

Course outline

The application-oriented Master's programme teaches the current state of the art and the ability to apply it to problems and develop innovative solutions. You will be enabled to derive and elaborate scientific methods for difficult and complex computer science problems in practice or in research and to apply them with the corresponding findings. The programmes therefore focus on specialisation in both theoretical and application-oriented computer science subjects. In order to meet the requirements for interdisciplinary key qualifications, the programme is supplemented by a selection of subjects from the area of soft skills. Course outlines are made up of compulsory elective courses and allow you to specialise according to your interests and abilities. You can choose an optional specialisation, which will be shown on your certificate.

Semester4 semesters
Place of studyDarmstadt
Start of programmeWinter semester/Summer semester
Language of instructionGerman
Admission requirementsQualified Bachelor's degree in the field of computer science
Dual/co-operativeYes

Study facts

  • Optimise your academic success: A mix of small groups, individual support and a wide range of learning formats offers ideal study conditions and prepares you optimally for your career entry.
  • Professional experience as part of the degree programme: A practical semester and projects with real clients help you to establish contacts in professional experience at an early stage.
  • Benefit from the practical experience of our lecturers: They come from the professional world, provide you with up-to-date knowledge and prepare you for the demands of the industry.
  • State university: Our study programmes are accredited and therefore quality-tested. As a state university, we do not charge tuition fees.
  • Outstanding place of learning: According to UNESCO, h_da is an "outstanding place of learning for sustainable development".

Find the right one

Further information

I liked the options on the Master's programme. I was able to expand and specialise in my personal area of expertise from the Bachelor's study programme."

Jan Trobitius

Graduate of the master's programme in computer science and system planner at Fraport AG, Frankfurt

Entry Requirements

The admission requirement for the Master's degree programme is a qualified Bachelor's degree in the field of computer science. Other aspects that are conducive to the Computer Science degree programme (e.g. practical computer science activities, completion of the Bachelor's degree within the standard period of study, student council work, semester abroad) may also be taken into account in the selection process. University degrees in a subject comparable to computer science can be recognised for admission to the degree programme. The required qualification profile can be supplemented in bridge courses before the start of the programme. A detailed description of the admission requirements can be found in the Special Provisions of the Examination Regulations (BBPO).

Study programme

The modules of the Master's degree programme provide qualifications and skills for these fields of activity. These study units can include lectures, project work or laboratory phases. In addition to in-depth specialist knowledge, they aim to impart the ability to recognise and solve practical problems. The overview below illustrates the structure of the course outline. It also lists the entry options for the study programme.

  • A detailed description of the programme content can be found in the module handbook.
  • An overview of the individual modules in the programme can be found in the module diagram.
The diagram shows the study plan for the Master's degree course in Computer Science (M.Sc.) at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences (h_da) over four semesters.
In the case of an equivalent degree in a computer science-related subject, a case-by-case assessment is carried out. International students must provide proof of language skills. 7th semester: Compulsory elective modules from the methods catalog (12 CP), compulsory elective modules from the application catalog (12 CP), Project System Development I (7.5 CP), Social Science Competencies (2.5 CP). 8th semester: Compulsory elective modules from the application catalog (12 CP), compulsory elective modules from the subject or application catalog (6 CP), System Development Project II (7.5 CP), social and personal skills (2.5 CP). 9th semester: advanced seminar (5 CP), system development project III (7.5 CP). 10th semester: Master's thesis (30 CP). Students can choose between four specializations: - Information Systems - Computer Graphics and Graphical Systems - Software Engineering - IT security Under "Prospects" it is explained that the Master's degree qualifies students for a doctorate and for jobs in consulting, management, software or system development as well as for the higher civil service.

Career prospects

A Master's degree opens up good opportunities on the labour market, a higher starting salary and entry requirements for management positions. The subject areas you deal with are complex and demanding. Typical areas of work are

  • Consulting
  • project management
  • Software and system design

The Master's degree enables Entry Requirements for the higher civil service and is the basis for admission to a doctoral programme. The Graduate School is the central place of contact.

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Find all the information you need about the application process and your path to the computer science (M.Sc.) study programme at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences.

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Contact us

The first place of contact for most questions about studying is our student advisors, the Student Service Centre (SSC) or direct contacts from the faculty.

Study programme director

Central place of contact of the faculty

Portrait of Prof. Dr. Michael von Rüden

Prof. Dr. Michael von Rüden


Distributed Systems

Michael von Rüden is Professor of Distributed Systems in the Department of Computer Science at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences. His...


teaching and research focus on distributed systems, high-performance cloud computing, automation, DevOps and site reliability engineering. He is also interested in software-defined networking, wireless networks and the Internet of Things.

Student Service Centre (SSC)

First place of contact for central questions and advice

Portrait of Student Service Center

Student Service Center

Central point of contact for prospective students and current students. The SSC provides support with study orientation, the application...


process, issues during your studies and the transition to working life.

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