Applied Computer Science - Smart Systems, Bachelor of Science

What are the admission requirements for the Bachelor's degree in Applied Computer Science – Smart Systems?

The dual Bachelor's degree »Applied Computer Science – Smart Systems« is aimed at everyone interested in innovative technologies, the combination of software and hardware, and the development of intelligent systems. If you find future topics such as the Internet of Things, Smart Home, drones, Smart Cities or the control of networked systems exciting, this is the right place for you. It is especially addressed to school leavers with an Abitur, technical graduates, but also professionally qualified individuals with an IT background who want to actively shape the future at the interface of digitalisation, hardware and software.

Admission requirements

• Qualification:
  You need one of the following qualifications to be admitted to the programme:
  • General university entrance qualification (Abitur)
  • Advanced technical college entrance qualification (Fachhochschulreife)
  • Successful completion of a professional advancement training course
  • A relevant vocational training (e.g. IT specialist, information technology assistant) with subsequent professional experience
• Selection procedure:
  Successful participation in the selection procedure of the Fachhochschule der Wirtschaft (FHDW) is required.
• Accelerated entry:
  If you have completed a recognised IT vocational training (e.g. IT specialist, ITA), you can have your prior achievements credited and enter directly into the second year of study (4 semesters). Other technically relevant vocational training will be assessed individually.

All certificates must be official and in German. In case of uncertainties, the FHDW will check your individual prerequisites.

Personal requirements:

• Strong interest in technology and computer science, especially in the connection between software and hardware
• Analytical thinking and enjoyment of logical, structured tasks
• Willingness to learn effectively both in a team and independently
• Communication skills to present complex issues clearly
• Initiative in problem-solving and interaction with practical partner companies
• Openness to new developments in digitalisation, artificial intelligence or automation

Technical prior knowledge and experience (e.g. through project work, internships or private programming or maker projects) are advantageous but not mandatory.

What do you learn in the Bachelor’s degree programme Applied Computer Science – Smart Systems?

The Bachelor’s degree programme "Applied Computer Science – Smart Systems" combines fundamental computer science knowledge with expertise in intelligent systems. You will engage with the development, modelling and simulation of complex, interconnected systems – from smart home applications and drones to smart cities and smart grids.

• Focus on Smart Systems: You learn how software and hardware are combined into intelligent solutions. Applications in everyday life and industry are the main focus.
• Modelling & Simulation: Concepts and tools for depicting and predicting complex systems provide you with practical skills.
• Mobile Systems: You explore mobile technologies and their control as part of modern IT environments.

Key modules include:

• Software Engineering
• Relational Databases and SQL
• Data Analysis
• Computer Networks
• Software Architecture
• Secure Software (Secure Software Development)
• Project Management

Practical projects, such as developing maker projects, implementing mobile systems and simulating smart city scenarios, deepen your knowledge hands-on.

How is the course structure organised in the dual degree programme?

The programme is dual and normally lasts six semesters. You alternate every three months between theory phases at the university and practical phases at the partner company. Both phases are closely interlinked, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned directly.

• Practical phases: The practical placements either take place continuously at the same partner company or you gain experience in different companies, sectors or departments. This way you can specifically pursue your interests.
• Shortened programme with IT apprenticeship: If you have already completed an IT vocational training, you can enter the second year of study and thus reduce the programme to four semesters.

Study alongside work: alternating between work and university every three months promotes a close integration of both learning environments.

What career prospects do you have after graduation?

The degree offers you a variety of prospects in the digital economy – especially at the interface of software and hardware in forward-looking areas:

• Embedded Systems Engineer (development and maintenance of embedded systems)
• IoT Specialist (Internet of Things)
• Systems Engineer for Smart Grids (intelligent energy networks)

Other typical fields of work include the development of smart home applications, project management in automation technology or activities in digital urban development (smart city). The demand for such specialists is high – this is also confirmed by the industry association Bitkom and the initiative "Digital Hub Germany".

At which locations can you study Applied Computer Science – Smart Systems?

You can complete the dual Bachelor’s degree at the FHDW locations in Bergisch Gladbach, Bielefeld, Mettmann and Paderborn. The shortened option (with appropriate IT vocational training) is currently offered at Bergisch Gladbach, Mettmann and Paderborn.

• All locations are technically modern and maintain close ties to the regional economy.
• The start of studies is possible each October.

What are the costs and what financing options are available?

The monthly tuition fees amount to €670. A one-time examination fee of €1,500 applies.

• Dual Studies: Usually your partner company covers the tuition fees and may also support you with living costs.
• More flexible financing: If you do not want to commit to a specific company, there are other options such as BAföG, scholarships or student loans.
• The university offers advice on all financing options as well as help with finding a placement company.