Computer Science — Specialisation in Information Systems

The Bachelor's degree program in Computer Science with a specialization in Information Systems at TH Köln – University of Applied Sciences offers students a comprehensive education in the fundamental principles and practical applications of computer science, with a specific focus on information systems. This program is designed to prepare graduates for the diverse challenges of the digital age by equipping them with technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and strategic thinking capabilities necessary in today’s technology-driven business environment. Throughout the course of study, students engage with core topics such as programming, software development, database management, systems analysis and design, networking, and cybersecurity. The specialization in Information Systems emphasizes the design, implementation, and management of information systems within organizations, fostering an understanding of how technological solutions support business processes and decision-making.

Additionally, students learn about enterprise resource planning, business intelligence, data analytics, and digital transformation strategies, enabling them to develop solutions that improve operational efficiency and support organizational growth. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, incorporating hands-on projects, laboratory work, and internships that prepare students for real-world scenarios. TH Köln's strong connections with industry partners provide opportunities for students to collaborate on projects, participate in internships, and gain insights from professionals in the field. The curriculum also highlights current trends and emerging technologies, such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and big data, ensuring graduates are well-versed in the latest developments. Graduates of this program are equipped to pursue careers in software engineering, systems analysis, IT consulting, database administration, and project management, among others. The program's interdisciplinary approach fosters teamwork, communication skills, and a global outlook, essential qualities for successful careers in the rapidly evolving field of information technology. With a focus on practical application and industry relevance, the Bachelor's in Computer Science – Information Systems specialization at TH Köln prepares students for lifelong learning and professional success in the dynamic world of information technology and business.

Educational organisation

The Master's programme comprises four semesters:

• Semesters one and two impart technological and methodical know-how in the form of lectures, tutorials and laboratory courses.
• In semester three, case studies are carried out in small teams of three to five students.
• In semester four, the programme is concluded with the Master's thesis.

Mandatory courses in the Master's programme are held in English. In the elective course catalogue, courses are offered which are held either in English or in German. Enough courses are held in English for the entire programme to be studied without German language skills.

The Master's programme leads to a Master's degree in Computer Science (MSc).

Study abroad unit(s)

The Master's programme encourages study abroad. Modules from other universities are recognised. We offer opportunities to study abroad, in particular, at our partner universities.

Internships

Our instruction philosophy emphasises real-life experiences through extensive hands-on, laboratory-based training, cooperations, and internships. Project work forms part of the course in research projects as well as in projects with industry.

Forms of assessment

Forms of assessment include written or oral examinations, presentations and group work.

Course objectives

The main aim of the course is to expand students' knowledge and methodological skills in business application-oriented computer science, both in depth and in breadth. The Master's degree course also expands students' structural, processing and decision-making capabilities in complex situations. With our state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, students are able to meet the demands of rapidly developing technologies and methodologies and to support the development of core IT capabilities. Students will consider leading tasks in international environments and they will be prepared to take up responsible and leading tasks at the interface of business and information technology.

Language requirements

Applicants to Computer Science - Specialisation in Information Systems must provide proof of their English language skills.
Certified proficiency in English: TOEFL (550 points), computer TOEFL (213 points), Internet TOEFL (80 points), IELTS (band 6.0), Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (level C1) or equivalent certificate
Alternatively: preceding school education held entirely in English (at least one year)
Preceding German school education with at least six school years with English as a subject

Academic requirements

For admission to the Master's programme Computer Science - Specialisation in Information Systems, applicants are required to have successfully completed studies in the field of computer science (Bachelor's or comparable degree). The following branches of study are eligible: business information systems, informatics

A student workload of at least 600 hours (20 ECTS) must have been passed in the area of business administration or business applications of information systems in previous studies. A student workload of at least 1,200 hours (40 ECTS) must have been passed in the area of computer science in previous studies with a final grade in the Bachelor's degree of "good" or better. Professional experience does not fulfil these conditions.

The following application documents are required:

• informal application letter
• graduation certificate and transcript of records (certified copy)
• secondary school leaving certificate (certified copy)
• curriculum vitae (in tabular form)
• proof of English proficiency (see language requirements)
• a two-page description of your motivation to study, including your further research interests (in English)

Please find further details and a checklist at:
http://www.MasterComputerScience.de

Enrolment fees

The fee of about 250 EUR per semester includes a semester ticket covering public transport in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Costs of living

The costs of living for your stay largely depend on your personal needs. When planning your stay, you should calculate monthly costs of approximately 700-800 EUR.

Job opportunities

Taking on a part-time job while studying has lots of benefits. Students can make some extra money, gain valuable professional experience, and might take a first step up on the career ladder.
Whether and how long you are allowed to work during semester breaks is determined by your immigration office. The provisions applying to your specific case will be stated in your residence permit. To find out about these provisions, we recommend you make an inquiry at the immigration office during your first visit. International students from countries that are not member states of the EU, the EEA, or Switzerland are normally permitted to work 120 full or 240 half days per year if they are in possession of a valid residence permit for Germany.
TH Köln can assist you in finding a job that suits your profile and interests. Our Career Service and our Nebenjobservice (Part-Time Job Service) offer comprehensive counselling and specific information events on all aspects related to part-time jobs.
Please be aware that the level of your German language skills will strongly affect your chances of finding a part-time job, as German is the language of communication in Germany.

Funding opportunities within the university

TH Köln as well as other institutions offer different scholarships for international students such as the Deutschlandstipendium scholarship. Recipients receive approx. 300 EUR per month.
https://www.th-koeln.de/en/international_office/deutschland-stipendium-scholarship---information-for-students_9164.php

Arrival support

German language classes with a limited number of places are offered for international students. During the first semester, additional tutorials are offered.

Services and support for international students

TH Köln - University of Applied Sciences - follows the National Code of Conduct on Foreign Students at German Universities established by the German Rectors' Conference (HRK).
The International Office provides advice and support for international students on all aspects related to studying at TH Köln. The International Office accompanies your stay at our university with a variety of programmes and events and invites you to become a part of our international community (e.g., mentoring programmes for new first semester students, TH Köln Buddy programme KARIBU, or Language Partnership programme).
Every semester, the International Office organises a semester programme including exciting cultural events to connect German and international students as well as activities to jointly discover different aspects of Cologne (e.g., a guided tour of Cologne, trips to museums and theatres, or a semester trip to the German capital Berlin).

Accommodation

Boasting a population of slightly more than one million, Cologne is Germany's fourth-largest metropolis - a highly attractive one on top of that. The increasing influx of people can make the search for adequate accommodation quite difficult. Dozens of apartment hunters often compete for a single apartment. That is why the International Office strongly recommends that you start looking for a place to live as soon as possible.
The fierce competition on the housing market has resulted in above-market rents - particularly in proximity of the city centre. We therefore encourage you to be flexible: try to look for apartments outside the centre, as you will encounter less competition and lower rents.
Student dormitories
Cologne's most convenient and economical housing option is often a student dormitory. Kölner Studierendenwerk operates 86 student dorms offering roughly 4,700 rooms. Please be aware that TH Köln does not allocate the rooms in these dorms. In order to be allocated a room, please apply online on the website of Kölner Studentenwerk by clicking on "online-application". See: http://www.kstw.de/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=315&Itemid=11&lang=en.
The seemingly large number of dorm rooms is misleading; as the dormitories are open to the roughly 80,000 students enrolled at all Cologne universities, they are in extremely high demand. Make sure to apply for a dorm room at Kölner Studierendenwerk as early as possible.