Computer Science, focus on Communication and Media in Computer Science (B.Sc.)
What is KMI?
KMI stands for Communication and Media in Computer Science - a modern Computer Science degree programme at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences. Here you will not only learn how to code, but also how to work effectively in a team and develop cool apps. Of course, you will also learn how AI systems work. With KMI, you will help to make the world more sustainable. Through clever digitalisation, you will save resources and make everyday life easier for people with disabilities. The course outline is practice-oriented with many projects and personal support.
The higher proportion of women and the cooperation with the Faculty of Media make KMI unique. After your bachelor's degree, you can go straight into a career as a software developer, scrum master or IT consultant. Or you can do a Master's degree or even a doctorate. Let code.org inspire you - the future is in your hands! Apply for the exciting KMI study programme by 15 July 2026.
Can I do that?
Yes, you can do the KMI computer science degree programme at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences! It takes grit, perseverance and a willingness to immerse yourself in the subject matter. Previous programming knowledge is not absolutely necessary, but logical thinking, the ability to work in a team and, above all, frustration tolerance and self-competence such as self-motivation are essential.
Of course, it is a full-time job with a lot of personal work (approx. 55%). But you can earn money during the semester break and have many options after your Bachelor's degree. In the video, I also go into decision-making aids regarding training, university, dual or KMI. If you want to find out whether you enjoy programming, take a look at my material on learning programming with Flutter: SheLikesCoding.
KMI vs General Computer Science
KMI is a special Computer Science Bachelor's degree programme, 80% identical to the regular Computer Science degree programme. The grey blocks in the overview are included in both variants. With KMI, you take half of your core elective modules at the Faculty of Media.
The team icons mark project-type courses in which you learn the required soft skills for teamworking. The green boxes make KMI special: more practice, modules from Media, in KMI the focus is on communication and collaboration. Just the right thing to get fit for the job!
How and when does it start?
Yeah, you've chosen KMI - congratulations! Things really get going at the Computer Science faculty from September. Get started with the first semester introduction (ESE) from 29.09. to 02.10.2025 (all day). The Computer Science preliminary course starts on 17/09/2025. From 22.09. to 26.09.2025 there will be a maths preliminary course.
In the ESE you will learn how to take courses, organise your timetable and get to know lots of people. Check your hda e-mail regularly (stud.h-da.de), this is where the official communication takes place. The lectures will then start on 06.10.2025.
Look forward to an exciting time with lots of new experiences!
Get started now!
As soon as you have your hda account, you can register for the PGI course on Moodle. If the holidays are too long for you or you would like to get a taste of the course, you can also work through the materials in Moodle on your own. These videos will give you a first insight into what to expect in the first semester. It will definitely be exciting!
The material from SheLikesCoding also offers a first introduction. You can find an introduction to various other Computer Science basics under PGI material. I'm looking forward to a great semester with you!
See you soon, Ute Trapp
FAQ
KMI only starts in the winter semester. However, you can start the General Bachelor of Computer Science in the summer semester and switch to KMI in the winter semester. If you intend to do this, you should not take the module Technical Foundations of Computer Science, as you do not need this module in KMI.
Almost all modules are offered exclusively in German. Some compulsory elective modules are also offered in English. Almost all tutorials and references are in English.
Studying with a notebook is much more productive :)
KMI is a full-time degree programme. Only around 10% manage to complete it in the planned 6 semesters - the workload is often underestimated. If you have to work on the side, take a look at the dual study programme. If you have only just passed your A-levels and have learning difficulties, an apprenticeship as an IT specialist would be a better choice. Today, you have to expect a 42-hour week plus breaks and travelling for a course outline - and that's for average students. Attendance is compulsory for internships. The exams come straight after the lecture weeks. In principle, you write your A-levels every semester. During the lecture-free period (approx. 17 weeks per year) you have time off. You are allowed to repeat content and you can also work and take holidays. But KMI is hard work, so be aware of the challenge!
Please feel free to contact Mirjam Moser. She is our student advisor for KMI and knows the study programme inside out. Of course you can also contact me by e-mail :)