Computer Science, Bachelor of Science

Who is the Bachelor Computer Science suitable for?

The Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science at Hochschule Fresenius is aimed at school leavers with the Abitur certificate as well as those with an equivalent university entrance qualification who have a keen interest in computer science, programming and digital technologies. It addresses prospective students who want to acquire fundamental IT knowledge, develop practical software solutions and engage with topics such as artificial intelligence, data security or Industry 4.0. The course is particularly suitable for anyone aiming for a career as a software developer, IT consultant or data analyst and who prefers an internationally oriented, English-language degree programme delivered on campus.

These admission requirements must be met

To be admitted to the Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, you need a valid university entrance qualification. This can be, for example, the Abitur, the advanced technical college entrance qualification (Fachhochschulreife) or a recognised equivalent qualification by the federal state. Alternatively, passing a master craftsman’s examination or having an appropriate professional qualification also grants access to the programme – this applies according to the regulations on “studying without Abitur” in North Rhine-Westphalia. A Numerus Clausus (NC) is not provided for this degree programme.

In addition, English language skills at level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) are required. You can prove your language skills with a recognised language certificate, your Abitur certificate or comparable evidence.

Which personal requirements should you bring?

For the Computer Science programme, you should have strong analytical thinking and a high affinity for technology, mathematics and logical connections. Independent working, problem-solving skills and an interest in learning programming languages (e.g. Java) are advantageous. Since the course takes place in English, you need to be willing to follow specialist literature and lectures in English as well as collaborate with international students. Communication and teamwork skills will help you especially with joint project work. Motivation for continuous development in a dynamic technical environment as well as curiosity about new IT trends and technologies complete your personal profile.

Course Content in Detail

In the Bachelor's degree programme Computer Science at Hochschule Fresenius, you will acquire sound knowledge in central areas of computer science. The course begins with fundamentals of programming (Java), mathematics, statistics, and databases. You will study the following topics in depth:

• Programming and Software Engineering: From the basics to advanced concepts as well as developing your own IT projects
• Cloud Computing, Algorithms and Data Structures
• IT Security and Information Security, including Data Protection and Legal Foundations
• Operating Systems, Computer Architectures and Computer Networks
• Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Data Analytics
• UX & Web Technologies as well as Automation in Industrial Applications

During the course, you choose two specialisations from these areas:

• Cyber Security
• Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
• Software Engineering
• Industry 4.0

You will also acquire important additional skills in presentation techniques, academic working, project management, entrepreneurship and innovation management. English-language courses prepare you specifically for working internationally.

Course Structure

The full-time degree lasts six semesters and is structured in a practice-oriented way. Each semester, you take several compulsory modules from the fields of computer science, mathematics, software development and management. Project and practical phases provide insights into real application areas, supported by workshops, excursions and guest lectures.

• At the beginning: Fundamental modules in computer science, programming, mathematics and statistics
• From the third semester: Specialisations in, for example, cloud computing, data analytics, software engineering
• Higher semesters: Choice of two specialisations and practical project work
• Optional practical semester possible, then extension to seven semesters with 210 ECTS credits
• Completion with the bachelor thesis in the sixth or seventh semester

The language of instruction is English. The course is based at the Cologne campus and offers numerous opportunities for individual development, such as free language courses and career workshops.

Career Prospects & Employment Opportunities

The Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science opens up diverse entry and development opportunities:

• Software Development: Design, programming and testing of applications and systems for various industries
• IT Consulting: Analysis of business processes, development of digital strategies and implementation of modern technologies
• Data Analysis and Data Science: Evaluation of large data sets to support decision-making in companies
• Cloud and Network Administration, IT Security, Project Management
• Focus areas and specialisations open additional opportunities in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Industry 4.0 and Cyber Security

Many graduates find employment in the software industry, consulting firms, industrial and service companies or in research and development departments. The degree also enables you to pursue a subsequent Master's degree, for example in Data Science, IT Management or Artificial Intelligence.

Study Location: How Do You Learn at the Cologne Campus?

The course takes place on-site at the Cologne location of Hochschule Fresenius. The campus is centrally located in MediaPark, an established business park for media and technology companies in Cologne-Neustadt-Nord. The location allows for short routes to the city centre and excellent public transport connections.

• Modern teaching rooms, PC pools and library are at your disposal
• Networking with regional companies, guest lectures and workshops directly on campus
• Leisure facilities, canteen and numerous restaurants in the immediate vicinity

The university offers additional services such as StudyPLUS – with free further training, language courses, networking events and career counselling directly on site.

Costs and Financing

The tuition fees amount to 950 euros per month. For six semesters, this amounts to a total of 34,795 euros (as of 2024). In addition, there is a one-time registration fee of 695 euros.

• Included in the price: teaching materials, access to additional services, language courses, career counselling and StudyPLUS events
• The course is eligible for BAföG funding; you can also make use of education funds, student loans or scholarships
• The university’s student advisory service supports you in finding the suitable financing option
• Part-time jobs or student assistant positions can generally be reconciled with the study plan

Individual funding depends on your personal circumstances. Advice on BAföG, scholarships and loans is available directly on campus.