MS in Computer Science in Germany

In addition to having a robust economy and healthcare system, Germany features a top-notch education system, countless cultural attractions, and leisure activities. The foundation of Germany's digital economy is made up primarily of young tech companies prioritizing R&D and innovation. Its economy is the largest in Europe and is led by established IT corporations. Therefore, students have the most to gain from studying for a master's in computer science from Germany, given the vibrant nature of technological advancement at leading universities.

Germany’s information and communication technology (ICT) market is one of the largest globally. Moreover, with a turnover of around Euro 23 billion, the country had the largest software market in Western Europe in 2017. And so, this does not come as a surprise that there is an abundance of MS in computer science courses in Germany at reputed universities. 

If you wish to pursue your MS in computer science in Germany, go through our comprehensive guide that includes a list of the top German universities offering MS courses and information on admission, scholarship, eligibility, fee, and other vital details.

Course Highlights

Reasons to Study MS in Computer Science in Germany

Here are some of the top reasons for pursuing an MS in computer science in Germany: 

• Germany houses some of the highest-ranking global universities. Completing a Master’s degree in Computer Science means access to numerous employment opportunities. 
• Salary growth in the field has been consistent over the last few years. 
• Great opportunities for technological innovation and research. 
• According to the Bloomberg Innovation Index 2020, Germany was named the most innovative nation in the world.
• International employers value computer science qualifications, considering the country’s reputation for technological advancement and innovation.
• German companies invest heavily in R&D, sustaining the results of the country as the biggest economy in Europe.
• An increasing number of universities in Germany are offering courses in the English language.

Top Universities in Germany for MS in Computer Science

There are several leading universities offering masters in computer applications in Germany. The tenures of these courses are usually four semesters/two years.

*All fees are approximate figures from the official university’s website. 

The medium of instruction for universities is German or English. Yet, several highly-ranked German universities offer MSc degrees in Computer Science, with German being the medium of instruction. Some of these institutions include ULM University and the University of Berlin. 

Course Curriculum

In Germany, MS in Computer Science curriculum combines theoretical and practical coursework. Algorithms, data structures, software engineering, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and computer networks are a few of the advanced topics in computer science that students will learn. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the rapidly evolving field of computer science. In addition to coursework, students may get the chance to work on research projects or intern to get real-world experience. 

After completing the program, you become competent to define computer science problems and their applications comprehensively. Also, research universities offer many workshops, practical lessons, and peer education programs. You not only get programming experience, but the course also gives you a broad overview of computer science and the opportunities to specialize in several research areas.

MS in Computer Science in Germany: Admission Process

To pursue a master's degree in computer science in Germany, international students must submit the required documents and meet all the eligibility requirements. German institutions may have different application deadlines and admission requirements. Thus, applicants should check the details on their official websites.

Depending on the requirements of the universities, there are three ways to apply for an MS in Computer Science in Germany

• Directly through the university portal
• Uni-assist applications
• Making a request via DAAD

Eligibility Criteria for MS in Computer Science in Germany

The eligibility criteria for MS in Computer Science in Germany are as follows: 

• GATE or GRE score 
• Undergraduate degree in a related or relevant subject
• TOEFL or IELTS scores
• Letters of Recommendations (LORs)
• Resume/CV

Documents Required for MS Computer Science in Germany 

Here are the documents required for MS in Germany for Indian students and others for computer science studies:

• Passport
• Student visa
• Academic transcripts of earlier years. 
• GRE or GATE scores 
• SOP (Statement of Purpose)
• LOR (Letter of Recommendation)
• CV/Resume
• English Language Proficiency Test scores

Language Proficiency Requirements: MS in CS in Germany 

Students must provide accepted English language certificates for all English-taught courses. They can be any of the following (along with the minimum scores required by most universities): 

TOEFL: A minimum score of 88 is required for admission

IELTS: An overall band score of 6.5 is considered good

Cambridge Advanced English (CAE): Grades A, B, C

Cambridge Proficiency English (CPE): Grades A, B, C

Pearson Academic Online: At least 65 points

One can bypass these examinations if they had English as their language of instruction in the previous course and can prove their English language skills via Transcript of Records from their previous school or academic education.

Costs for MS in Computer Science in Germany 

Here is a closer look at the approximate costs of an MS in Computer Science in Germany: 

• Application Charges for Courses- €126 
• IELTS Charges- € 160-€165 
• TOEFL Charges- € 139-€217 
• Charges for German Student Visa Applications- €73 
• Airfare Costs- €389-€1211 
• GMAT Charges- €216 
• GRE Charges- €177-€199 
• Average Tuition Fee:
• Public universities - generally do not charge tuition fees or only charge a small administrative fee ranging from €100 to €300 per semester.
• Private universities - €10,000-€35,000 per year

The pre-arrival costs will include the application charges and the English Language proficiency test costs. You should also take into account the living costs while you estimate the total cost for an MS in Computer Science in Germany. They usually vary between €7,200-12,508 on average.

Scholarship Options for MS in Computer Science in Germany

Numerous scholarship choices are available for those pursuing MS in Computer Science in Germany. They include: 

Intakes & Deadlines for Admission into Masters in Computer Science in Germany

The admission deadlines for various universities are as follows: 

• RWTH Aachen - July 15
• TU Munich - May 31
• TU Berlin - July 31
• University of Freiburg - July 15
• TU Darmstadt - September 15
• University of Heidelberg - September 30
• University of Passau - May 31
• University of Stuttgart - July 15

In most cases, the preferred intake across reputed German universities is the winter semester. The aspirants can also look at the summer semester for admissions.

Job Prospects for MS in Computer Science in Germany 

Germany has ushered in digitization, making it a technology and IT hub. With numerous in-store business opportunities, doing an MS in Computer Science is always rewarding. A work permit takes time and effort in Germany though internships can help make an entry into well-established companies. Germans generally work 41 hours weekly, and there are 18 holidays annually.

Skilled postgraduates in computer science can find employment as computer technicians, hardware engineers, network architects, JavaScript developers, programmers, AI developers, and application developers. Average salaries vary from €8,810 to €12,300 (INR 7,95,357-11,10,431). Gaining two to three years of experience can lead to further salary hikes of 20-30%. The computer and technology fields are witnessing rapid growth in Germany. It augurs well for skilled aspirants in the discipline.