Scientific Computing

This consecutive, research-oriented Master's programme in scientific computing will broaden students' mathematics and computer sciences knowledge. The emphasis of the Master's programme is application-driven.
The aim of this Master's programme is to bring students into touch with topical research projects which can be found at the participating research centres. Graduates will be able to use and expand mathematical methods and models for any application field in science or industry. While working on their Master's thesis, participants are strongly encouraged to develop all necessary skills for a self-reliant scientific career, e.g. problem analysis and problem-solving, project and self management.
Students choose one area of specialisation that will also define their field of research for the second year of training. These areas include:

• data & text mining
• simulation & optimisation
• statistics
• modelling and applied analysis
• computational mathematics
• imaging science
• scientific visualisation

Educational organisation

The first and second years of the Master's programme are clearly divided.

The first year provides in-depth knowledge in advanced methods of applied mathematics as well as computer science. These two modules lay the basis for a solid understanding both of the methodology in mathematics needed in order to be successful in scientific computing and of the tools and techniques required to implement these methods efficiently in modern software systems.
The application component can be selected from a wide range of fields including physics, astronomy, biosciences, chemistry, or economics. Two seminars or traineeships complement the lecture blocks to ensure that practical application of the course content is a major part of the educational concept.
First year schedule:
Lecture series Mathematics I and II (16 CP)
Lecture series Computer Sciences I and II (16 CP)
Application fields I and II (18 CP)
Two seminars or traineeships (12 CP)

The second year of the Master's programme is dedicated to research in the field of the Master's thesis. Students choose from a set of lecture series, including, e.g., image processing, numerical solution of PDE, or analytical modelling, to extend their knowledge in one methodological area. Training in interdisciplinary skills is a key qualification for future researchers in scientific computing. A seminar on topics of the Master's thesis and research and documentation of the thesis project complete the second year curriculum.
Second year schedule:
Major lecture series I and II (16 CP)
Interdisciplinary skills (6 CP)
Master's seminar (6 CP)
Master's thesis (30 CP)

Study abroad unit(s)

The participating institutions have strong ties with several research institutes in Europe and Asia. Practical training at these institutions is possible during the summer as part of the Master's course. The programme also encourages and facilitates one-semester exchanges with these institutions.

Internships

An internship in industry should be completed after the first year of study. Programme advisers will assist students in finding an appropriate internship.

Forms of assessment

Lectures: weekly exercises plus final exam
Seminars: presentation plus written report
Master's thesis

Course objectives

Graduates will be able to use and enhance scientific, expert knowledge in Mathematics and Computer Sciences for application in the fields of science and industry.
Graduates obtain qualifications required for entry into the Heidelberg Graduate School of Mathematical and Computational Methods for the Sciences (HGS MathComp) which are necessary in order to continue towards a PhD (see above).

Language requirements

International applicants (holding a BA) must prove their English skills (TOEFL iBT with score 90 or better out of 120) or CEFR (level B2).

Academic requirements

• Bachelor's degree in mathematics, computer sciences, scientific computing, or equivalent

(study time of at least three years in a relevant field)

• letter of motivation (English)
• proof of English language skills (TOEFL iBT with score 90 or better out of 120) or CEFR (level B2)

Enrolment fees

Enrolment fees at Heidelberg University are approx. 150 EUR per semester. The amount is due at the beginning of each semester upon re-registration, i.e., must be paid at the time of enrolment. The fees include administrative costs as well as the fees for the constituted student body, student services, and a regional transit pass (Semesterticket).

Costs of living

On average, the cost of living and studying in Heidelberg amounts to approx. 700-800 EUR per month.

Job opportunities

The faculty offers student jobs such as undergraduate teaching on a semester-by-semester basis.

Funding opportunities within the university

After the first year, the top 25% of the students are offered a membership in the graduate school HGS MathComp. This is combined with a second year scholarship (800 EUR per month). This membership includes an offer for a follow-up PhD project in the graduate school (research-oriented Master's track).

Services and support for international students

The International Relations Office of Heidelberg University provides assistance to prospective international students, students from abroad already studying at the university, international doctoral candidates, and visiting faculty as well as all students in Heidelberg who wish to spend some time abroad.
The first point of contact is the "Serviceportal" (room # 33), where the staff will be glad to assist foreign students. This is also where students can pick up the semester events programme, including excursions and academic and cultural events. In the student advisory office of the International Relations Office, assistance and support with any questions or problems regarding the stay in Heidelberg can be obtained.

Accommodation

Accommodation is available through student services or on the private market. Rent for a single room in a student residence is approx. 220 EUR. Private accommodation can be found on the internet at: http://www.wg-gesucht.de.