Computer Science

The Master's programme in Computer Science improves students' competencies in planning, designing and creating information systems and/or embedded software systems ultimately leading to a professional qualification.

During the first three semesters, students choose lectures, a project (lab) and a seminar in a self-selected area of specialisation, other areas in computer science, and a minor subject.

The following specialisations are offered:

• Algorithmics
• Development of Embedded Systems
• Information and Communication Systems
• Intelligent Systems
• Robotics
• Scientific Computing and Visualisation
• Software Engineering
• Verification

The minor subject is about 10% of the course of studies.
In the fourth semester, every student has to write a thesis.

The Department of Computer Sciences at the Technische Universität Kaiserslautern offers a unique research environment within the university and the associated, internationally renowned institutes (Fraunhofer Institute for Experimental SW Engineering, German Research Institute for Artificial Intelligence, Max Planck Institute for Software Systems). The institutes offer lectures, projects, Master's theses, and student assistant jobs.

International teams of professors, postgraduates and students collaborate on various fields of research covering a broad range, with particular strengths in:

• Software technology and software engineering
• Scientific Computing
• Information and database systems
• Artificial intelligence and computer vision
• Distributed and networked systems
• Simulation
• Algorithmics
• Embedded systems
• Robotics

Some of our research groups are among the best in the world.

Educational organisation

Apart from the regulations regarding required credit points in different categories, students are free to choose courses according to their preferences.

There is no given timetable of modules. An adviser helps to develop an individual study plan.
The student's minor can individually be chosen by the student among all departments of the university.

Study abroad unit(s)

Not mandatory, but supported by several professors

Forms of assessment

Modules containing one or more lectures end with an exam. Credits are given only for successfully passed exams. The overall grade is the weighted average of all grades obtained during the course of study and the grade of the Master's thesis. Most of the exams are oral exams.

Course objectives

The Master's programme consolidates existing fundamental knowledge in computer science, information systems and their applications.
It offers insights into contemporary research issues in computer science.
It prepares for PhD studies and imparts the ability to work in an international surrounding, be it research or industry.

Language requirements

At the beginning of your studies, no knowledge of German is required. However, you are obliged to attend basic German courses at the University of Kaiserslautern which form an integral part of your programme. After two semesters, you have to pass the DSI examination (DSI stands for "Deutsche Sprachprüfung für Studierende in internationalen Studiengängen und Doktoranden": language exam for international students at the University of Kaiserslautern), in order to continue your studies. This exam requires basic German knowledge at A1 level.

A good knowledge of English is required for admission to the programme of study. You must prove your English language skills for the Master's programme as follows:
TOEFL Test: 550 points (paper-based) / 213 points (computer-based) / 80 points (Internet-based) and/or IELTS: 6.0 points

Academic requirements

• Qualified Bachelor's or equivalent degree
• Language proficiency in English: TOEFL, 550 paper-based, 213 computer-based, 80 internet-based; IELTS 6.0, or equivalent (e.g. prior studies in English)
• GRE test is strongly recommended

Enrolment fees

• Enrolment fee: approx. 200 EUR per semester, includes e.g. free transport in the area around Kaiserslautern (up to 100 km), more than 50 free university sports courses, and more
• Assessment fee: 50 EUR single payment for verification of foreign certificates (you will get an invoice after submitting your application)

Costs of living

High standard of living at low cost:
Monthly costs: in total approx. 600-650 EUR to cover all personal expenses, e.g. accommodation: approx. 280 EUR; health insurance: approx. 80 EUR; food: approx. 200 EUR

Cost of living - a snapshot of regional prices:

• Meal in refectory: 2.40 EUR
• Loaf of bread: 1.20 EUR
• Orange juice (1 litre): 1 EUR
• Rice (1kg): 0.90 EUR

Job opportunities

Student assistantships are available on a competitive basis. Excellent students have good chances of finding jobs in research projects, but these are not usually granted in advance. Support in finding a job as a student assistant is available through the International School for Graduate Studies (ISGS).

Arrival support

The Department of International Affairs: ISGS at TU Kaiserslautern:
Lending a hand in every phase of your stay

Before Your Arrival...
Effective pre-arrival communication helps you to regulate application, visa, residence permit, and housing affairs. We supply any information and assistance needed to manage the application procedure, arrange accommodation on demand and provide support on an individual basis by completing your documents for arrival.

Once You Are Here...
One major task of the ISGS team is to help the students settle into and become part of the university's community. The welcome-package includes pick-up from the train station and drop-off at the student's apartment as well as support with first shopping and highly individualised support in administrative and organisational issues, e.g. enrolment, registration with local authorities, opening a bank account, and insurance matters.

Orientation Course - A prelude to German communication, academic culture & daily life. This course is offered twice a year prior to the start of the lecture period (six to eight weeks). It includes intensive language training, administrative support as well as cultural and social events. You will improve your knowledge of German and learn about our teaching styles and methods. In short, this course enhances orientation on campus, in town, and in the student community. Once having established a foothold, you will have a clear mind for efficient studies or research!

http://www.uni-kl.de/isgs

Services and support for international students

The Department of International Affairs: ISGS cares for international graduates & PhD candidates from the very decision of coming to Kaiserslautern until graduating or leaving the university. We lend a hand during every phase of your stay!
Apart from the individual support during the pre-arrival phase and a warm welcome, we provide you with continuing support that will enhance your learning:

Mentoring Your Studies and Research...
Both during your studies or research, ISGS offers a variety of cultural and social events as well as extra-curricular activities enhancing your professional skills - such as workshops in academic culture or intercultural communication - which are supplementary and free. These are highly recommended for your personal development.

Jumpstart Your Career...
The ISGS offers professional development training on teamwork and leadership, time management, and cross cultural training as well as specific language training with regard to job applications. To achieve outstanding success with regard to your thesis, the variety of our special offers for PhD students during the final period at university is permanently growing.

The ISGS establishes meetings with reputable contacts from science and industry within our Career-Services and sets up visits to factories, company headquarters and research institutes in order to help the students launch new careers.

http://www.uni-kl.de/international

Accommodation

The majority of our students live in residence halls located on or close to campus. Unlike in other countries, German dormitories are not owned or operated by the university but by external institutions. The "Studierendenwerk" operates several large halls of residence in Kaiserslautern. Students submit housing applications directly to the Studierendenwerk; typically there is a waiting period for rooms. For international Master's or PhD students, the International School for Graduate Studies (ISGS) at TU Kaiserslautern aims at arranging accommodation in these residence halls or in private accommodation within its pre-arrival service.

The halls of residence have modern single, double or shared apartments with kitchenette, bathroom/WC, and modern facilities as well as internet access.

• Fully-furnished:
  • Kitchenette: no plates & pots, etc.
  • Bed & mattress (no blankets & pillows)
  • Wardrobe
  • Shelf, table, chair (no computer)
• Rent: 200-290 EUR

Since accommodation is not automatically guaranteed with admission, a request for accommodation to ISGS is advisable.

http://www.uni-kl.de/international/master/prospective-students/travel-accommodation/accommodation/