Informatics (Computer Science)

The Master of Science in Informatics (Computer Science) at the Technical University of Munich offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in the field of computer science. This program is tailored for individuals who seek to deepen their understanding of core areas such as algorithms, programming languages, software engineering, artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, and systems architecture.

Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research and innovative projects, collaborating with leading experts in the field. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in industry, research, or further academic study. The program also offers a variety of elective modules, allowing students to specialize in areas like machine learning, data engineering, human-computer interaction, and more, aligning their education with their personal interests and career goals.

The program is conducted in English, attracting a diverse student body from around the world, fostering an international learning environment. Students benefit from state-of-the-art laboratories, modern computing resources, and strong connections with industry partners, facilitating internships, project collaborations, and career development opportunities. The curriculum is periodically updated to reflect the latest technological advancements and industry needs, maintaining its relevance and rigor.

Graduates of this master’s program are expected to develop analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to adapt to rapid technological change, making them highly competitive in the global job market. Whether pursuing careers in software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, or research, students leave the program well-equipped with the knowledge, skills, and professional network necessary to succeed in the dynamic field of informatics.

Educational organisation

The Master's programme in Informatics is a two-year programme divided into four semesters.
Students attend advanced lectures, a lab course and a seminar and participate in software development and research projects.
In the third semester, students have the possibility to do a second lab course and gain further practical experience or to do their own guided research project in close cooperation with a professor.
The Master's thesis is written in the fourth semester.

Study abroad unit(s)

It is possible to spend one or two semesters at one of our partner universities and to receive two MSc degrees (from TUM and the respective partner university) or to do intensive courses at 21 European partner universities in the framework of the ATHENS programme (Advanced Technology Higher Education Network Socrates).

Internships

• Not mandatory, but good possibilities during lecture-free periods
• Career service offered
• Support for business creation offered

Forms of assessment

Assignments during the semester, exams at the end of the semesters

Course objectives

The programme qualifies graduates for a PhD, for leading software development projects, and for executive positions in business and management.
Students acquire an advanced research competence in Informatics. The programme encourages and enables students to work independently according to high academic standards. Furthermore, students develop an understanding of an exemplary application area, with the corresponding terminology and way of thinking, and thereby acquire interdisciplinary competence.
Graduates can work in research and application in all phases of Software Engineering, from specification, design and analysis to development, implementation, and proof of correctness.
TUM offers talented PhD students a large number of scholarships and positions in research projects, many of them in the context of collaborative research with industry.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their English skills by taking one of the following tests:
TOEFL: Internet-based test (IbT): 88; computer-based test (CbT): 234; paper-based test (PbT): 605
IELTS: 6.5 (Academic Module)
Cambridge Main Suite of English Examinations:

• Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)
• Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)

Academic requirements

Bachelor of Science in informatics/computer science or equivalent
Applicants must provide a letter of motivation and an essay. They may be invited for a selection interview by telephone.
GRE or Gate Test for applicants with a degree from Bangladesh, China, India, Iran, or Pakistan

For further information, see: http://www.in.tum.de/en/for-prospective-students/apply-for-admission/masters-programs.html.

Enrolment fees

Approx. 115 EUR per semester
The fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport in Munich.

Costs of living

In order to cover personal expenses while studying in Munich, we recommend a budget of at least 800 EUR per month.

Job opportunities

Various possibilities are available for teaching assistantships and research assistantships at the university.
Munich is also a very good place to find internships and jobs at software companies.

Arrival support

TUM's International Center offers a special programme tailored for international students, TUMinternational (TUMi). The TUMi programme provides help and advice for new students as well as a cultural programme with events scheduled both prior to and during the academic periods.
The service desk of the Student Service Center is the first contact point for international students. We are here to help you with issues such as applications, enrolment, student ID cards, etc. Furthermore, we offer various three- to six-week summer schools combining academics with a rich menu of educational and social activities as a foretaste of university life. For international students who have been admitted to a degree programme, the Student Service Center offers a four-week pre-study course designed to help you get started at the TUM. Students new to TUM are invited to the service fair "Fit for TUM", which takes place before the semester officially starts, to get an overview of the various offerings of support services at TUM. See: http://www.tum.de/en/studies/international-students/.
Learning German: While the language of instruction for many of TUM's postgraduate programmes is English, learning German and thus being able to participate in daily German life at a deeper level enriches the experience of studying and living in Munich. TUM's Language Centre offers language classes for students at all levels, both prior to and during the semester: See: http://www.sprachenzentrum.tum.de/en/startseite/.

Services and support for international students

Support for international students at TUM:
http://www.tum.de/en/studies/international-students/living-in-munich/

International student adviser at the department:
http://www.in.tum.de/en/international-affairs/international-degree-students.html

The department's "International Café" hosts regular events:
http://www.in.tum.de/en/current-students/student-life/international-events/photos.html

The department's mentoring programme matches incoming international students with current TUM students:
http://www.in.tum.de/en/current-students/student-life/minga-international-student-mentor-program.html

Accommodation

It is not easy to find a place to live in Munich - but it is not impossible either! TUM supports students and employees in their search for accommodation, providing personal advice, in-house listings and useful information to ensure that you can quickly find a place to call your own. See: http://www.tum.de/en/university-life/accommodations/.
With high rents and not enough rooms in halls of residence, the Munich rental market is one of the most competitive in Germany - especially for students. The city boasts over 1.4 million inhabitants, with more people moving to Munich every year - many of them attracted by the excellent study opportunities that Munich has to offer.
Student halls of residence usually offer affordable accommodation for students. The Munich Student Union runs most of these halls of residence. For more information, see: http://www.studentenwerk-muenchen.de/en/accommodation/.