Computer Science

The Department of Computer Science at HAW Hamburg is large, and its professors have a highly diverse range of backgrounds and specialisms, including applied computer science, computer engineering, business information systems, software engineering, distributed systems and AI. The ensuing breadth of research interests and groups in our department enables our students to tailor their Master’s degree course to their specific interests and work with students from across the varieties of the discipline.

This Master’s degree course is ideally suited to those who have completed a Bachelor’s (or equivalent) degree in computer science or a comparable discipline and who are interested in continuing their studies without interruption in a research-rich environment.

The Master’s degree course is four semesters in duration and features a substantial share of project-based work. Links with existing research groups in the Department of Computer Science enable student involvement in current research activities focused on autonomous and intelligent systems, architecture and management of innovative information systems, data science, network-based and time-critical systems, and security and reliability.

This structure enables students to work intensively in a specific area and on a specific issue of interest to them.

Most students complete their Master's thesis in one of the department's well-appointed computer labs, typically working closely with other students from the relevant research group or students in other focal areas within the department.

Essential:

• A first degree (Bachelor or equivalent) of at least three years' duration in computer science or a comparable discipline, with a minimum grade (in the German system) of ‘good’ (2.5) or a Diplom degree from a university of applied sciences (Fachhochschule) with a minimum grade of ‘good’.
• Diploma Supplement/Transcript of Records
• Proficiency in the English language at level B2  (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages)
• International applicants are required to demonstrate proficiency in the German language at level C1 (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) or above via a recognised language test, which should be one of the following: Goethe Institute C1, TestDaF 4, telc C1 Hochschule, DSH2, Deutsches Sprachdiplom issued by the KMK (Kultusministerkonferenz), or Kleines or Großes Sprachdiplom issued by the Goethe Institute.

Further required documents:

• Letter of motivation
• CV

Further documents you may submit to enhance your application:

• Documentation of any previous relevant professional/work experience (e.g. written reference from your employer)
• A letter of recommendation from a professor or lecturer