Study Information Systems at Private Universities in Germany: Tuition from €199/Month

Bachelor and Master programmes at over 20 universities – distance learning, dual, part-time or on campus
 · Last updated 16.03.2026

Over 49 Information Systems programmes at private universities in Germany – from distance learning at €199/month to dual programmes where employers cover tuition. Known as Wirtschaftsinformatik in German, this degree combines IT skills with business expertise and ranks among the highest-paying fields for graduates. The key question: which format and university fit your goals?

Overview of all Courses

We have a total of 49 courses in the field of Business Informatics. The first 20 top courses are displayed. Use the filter function or our search to discover more courses in the field.

in english
Business and IT
Distance learning program, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
  •  IU International University of Applied Sciences
  •  6 Semester
  •  online
  • from 259 € monthly
  •  German or English
Info Pack More Info  
Information Systems
Distance learning program, Master of Science (M.Sc.)
  •  Wilhelm Büchner University of Applied Sciences
  •  4 Semester
  •  online
  • from 299 € monthly
  •  German
More Info  
Part-time program, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
  •  FOM University of Applied Sciences
  •  7 Semester
  •  Essen
  • from 445 € monthly
  •  German
More Info  
Distance learning program, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
  •  DIPLOMA University of Applied Sciences
  •  7 Semester
  • from 257 € monthly
  •  German
More Info  
On-campus program, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
  •  Wedel University of Applied Sciences
  •  6 Semester
  •  Wedel
  •  German
More Info  
Business Informatics
Dual studies, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
  •  IU International University of Applied Sciences
  •  7 Semester
  •  Düsseldorf, Virtual Campus
  •  German
Info Pack More Info  
On-campus program, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
  •  Hochschule der Bayerischen Wirtschaft
  •  7 Semester
  •  Munich
  • from 540 € monthly
  •  German
More Info  
Dual studies, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
  •  NORDAKADEMIE University of Applied Sciences
  •  7 Semester
  •  Elmshorn
  •  German
More Info  
in english
Part-time program, Master of Science (M.Sc.)
  •  NORDAKADEMIE University of Applied Sciences
  •  4 Semester
  •  Hamburg
  • from 498 € monthly
  •  German or English
More Info  
Information Systems
Distance learning program, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
  •  Wilhelm Büchner University of Applied Sciences
  •  6 Semester
  •  Pfungstadt
  • from 199 € monthly
  •  German
More Info  
Dual studies, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
  •  Leibniz University Hannover
  •  6 Semester
  •  Hannover and Achim
  •  German
More Info  
in english
On-campus program, Master of Science (M.Sc.)
  •  SRH University
  •  4 Semester
  • from 790 € monthly
  •  English
More Info  
Information Systems
Distance learning program, Master of Science (M.Sc.)
  •  Wilhelm Büchner University of Applied Sciences
  •  4 Semester
  •  Pfungstadt
  •  German
More Info  
Dual studies, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
  •  FHDW University of Applied Sciences
  •  6 Semester
  •  Paderborn, Bergisch Gladbach, Bielefeld, Mettmann, Marburg
  • from 670 € monthly
  •  German
More Info  
On-campus program, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
  •  DIPLOMA University of Applied Sciences
  •  6 Semester
  •  Bad Sooden-Allendorf
  • from 282 € monthly
  •  German
More Info  
Dual studies, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
  •  Dual University of Applied Sciences Schleswig-Holstein
  •  6 Semester
  •  Kiel
  • from 489 € monthly
  •  German
More Info  
in english
SAP Engineering & Analytics
On-campus program, Master of Science (M.Sc.)
  •  Fresenius University of Applied Sciences Heidelberg
  •  4 Semester
  •  Heidelberg
  • from 880 € monthly
  •  English
Info Pack More Info  
Part-time program, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
  •  FHDW University of Applied Sciences
  •  6 Semester
  •  Paderborn, Bielefeld
  • from 495 € monthly
  •  German
More Info  
Dual studies, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
  •  Hochschule der Bayerischen Wirtschaft
  •  7 Semester
  •  Munich
  • from 540 € monthly
  •  3 Comments & Questions
  •  German
More Info  
Distance learning program, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
  •  SRH Fernhochschule - The Mobile University
  •  6 Semester
  •  online
  • from 199 € monthly
  •  German
More Info  

How Much Does an Information Systems Degree Cost?

Tuition for Information Systems programmes ranges from €199 to €880 per month. Over the full duration, total costs range from €7,164 to €28,500 (Bachelor) or €7,380 to €21,815 (Master). The format determines the price: distance learning is most affordable, while dual programmes are often employer-funded.

Distance Learning: Most Affordable Option

Distance learning programmes start at €199/month with full flexibility on schedule and location. The standard duration is 6–7 semesters, with most providers offering free extensions. All programmes are NC-free (no GPA requirement) and state-accredited.

CourseUniversityFees

Distance learning program		from 7164 € total
from 199 € monthly

Distance learning program		from 11459 € total
from 257 € monthly

Distance learning program		from 11952 € total
from 199 € monthly

Distance learning program		from 12204 € total
from 199 € monthly

Distance learning program		from 13872 € total
from 289 € monthly

Distance learning program		from 15063 € total
from 259 € monthly

Language note: Most distance learning programmes listed above are taught in German. International students should check language requirements with each university. The SRH Fernhochschule and Wilhelm Büchner University provide English-language study materials for some modules.

Dual Studies: Employer-Funded

In dual programmes, partner companies typically cover all tuition fees – you pay nothing. In return, you work at the company alongside your studies, gaining practical experience from day one. The standard duration is 6–7 semesters.

Language note: Dual programmes are conducted in German, as they involve working at German companies. A German proficiency of at least B2 (CEFR) is typically required. The IU offers dual programmes at over 25 locations across Germany.

Part-Time and On-Campus Programmes

Part-time models are designed for working professionals – with evening and weekend classes or block sessions. Campus programmes offer traditional full-time study in small groups. Costs range from €282 to €540/month.

CourseUniversityFees

On-campus program		from 10817 € total
from 282 € monthly

On-campus program		from 11550 € total

Part-time program		from 13343 € total
from 355 € monthly

Part-time program		from 18690 € total
from 445 € monthly

Part-time program		from 19190 € total
from 445 € monthly

Part-time program		from 20790 € total
from 495 € monthly

Language note: Part-time programmes (FOM, HFH, University of Applied Management) are taught in German. The Wedel University of Applied Sciences near Hamburg offers campus programmes with some English-language modules.

Master’s Programmes: From €294/Month

A Master’s in Information Systems costs between €294 and €880 per month. The most affordable options are distance learning programmes, while specialised campus programmes (SAP Engineering, Cyber Security) are at the upper end.

Language note: The SRH Heidelberg Master “Computer Science – Cyber Security” and the Fresenius Heidelberg “SAP Engineering & Analytics” are available in English. Most other Master’s programmes require German proficiency (B2–C1).

Funding: BAföG, Scholarships and Tax Benefits

EU/EEA students are eligible for BAföG (German student aid) – up to €992/month, half as a grant. Many universities also offer their own scholarships: the IU awards merit-based scholarships, the SRH Fernhochschule social scholarships. International students from outside the EU should check individual scholarship programmes – DAAD and Deutschlandstipendium are open to international applicants.

Cost comparison: Tuition at private German universities (€199–880/month) is significantly lower than comparable programmes in the UK (£10,000–25,000/year), Australia (AUD 25,000–45,000/year) or the US ($20,000–60,000/year). Combined with lower living costs in many German cities, Germany offers strong value for money.

Is Information Systems Still Worth Studying in the Age of AI?

Yes – and the reasoning is more nuanced than most people assume. AI is not replacing Information Systems professionals; it is shifting their focus. Today’s graduates learn less about writing code from scratch and more about steering AI systems, integrating them into business processes, and critically evaluating their outputs.

Three developments reshaping the field:

  • AI integration and prompt engineering: Modern curricula increasingly include modules on machine learning, natural language processing and AI-driven process automation. Understanding how GPT, Copilot and similar tools work – and embedding them in ERP systems – is a skill that pure business graduates lack.
  • From developer to architect: AI tools handle routine tasks like boilerplate code, testing and data cleaning. Information Systems graduates are not becoming obsolete – their role is shifting from implementation to architecture: system design, API integration, requirements analysis.
  • Ethics and governance: The EU AI Act and growing regulation of AI systems create a new field: AI governance. Companies need professionals who understand both the technical and business sides – exactly the profile of Information Systems graduates.

The job market confirms this: according to Bitkom, over 149,000 IT positions remain unfilled in Germany (2024). Information Systems graduates are among the most sought-after profiles because they bridge the gap between technical teams and business stakeholders – a role AI cannot fill.

Information Systems combines IT expertise with business analysis – a combination that remains in demand even as AI transforms the workplace.

Information Systems vs Computer Science vs Business Administration

Information Systems (Wirtschaftsinformatik) is the bridge between IT and business. Whether it is the right choice depends on where you see yourself – closer to technology or closer to management.

CriterionInformation SystemsComputer ScienceBusiness Administration
Focus IT systems for businesses Algorithms, software, systems Management, finance, strategy
Typical modules ERP, business processes, databases, business Programming, mathematics, operating systems Accounting, marketing, economics
Mathematics Moderate (statistics, business maths) High (analysis, linear algebra, logic) Low to moderate
Programming Fundamentals + applied (SQL, Python, ERP) In-depth (Java, C++, systems-level) Little to none
Typical roles IT Consultant, Business Analyst, Project Manager Software Engineer, Data Scientist, SysAdmin Controller, Marketing Manager, Consultant
Starting salary €42,000–52,000 €45,000–55,000 €38,000–48,000
Best for Combining IT and business Deep technical expertise Management without IT focus

Rule of thumb: If you enjoy solving problems with technology but also want to understand why a company needs that solution, Information Systems is the right fit. If algorithms and mathematics excite you more than business processes, explore Computer Science. If IT is just a tool for you, Business Administration is a better match.

What Will You Study? Curriculum and Specialisations

An Information Systems degree rests on three pillars: computer science, business administration and integration skills. The balance varies by university – some programmes lean more technical, others emphasise business.

Specialisations: Cyber Security, Data Science and SAP

Many universities offer specialisations within Information Systems that prepare you for specific career paths:

  • Cyber Security: FOM offers three Cyber Security programmes (Bachelor and Master, part-time). SRH Heidelberg has a dedicated Master “Computer Science – Cyber Security” taught in English. With growing cyber threats, demand for security specialists continues to rise.
  • Data Science and Business Intelligence: Hochschule der Bayerischen Wirtschaft in Munich offers “Information Systems/Business Intelligence” as both a campus and dual programme. The combination of data analytics and business understanding is one of the most sought-after profiles.
  • SAP Engineering: Fresenius Heidelberg offers the unique Master “SAP Engineering & Analytics” – directly preparing for SAP Consultant or SAP Developer roles. SAP professionals are among the highest-paid IT specialists in Germany.
  • Sustainable IT: FHDW is the only university offering a Master in “Business Informatics – Sustainable IT”, addressing green IT strategies and ESG reporting.

Study Formats Compared: Distance, Dual or Part-Time?

Information Systems is available in five formats at private universities. The right choice depends on your life situation – working professionals need different models than school leavers.

FormatDurationCost/MonthOn-siteLanguage*Best for
Distance learning 6–7 sem. €199–289 None (online) German Working professionals, flexible learners
Dual studies 6–7 sem. Often €0 (employer) Alternating German School leavers with practical focus
Part-time 7–8 sem. €355–595 Evening/weekend German Professionals seeking on-site interaction
Full-time (campus) 6–7 sem. €282–649 Daily German** Traditional campus experience
Blended learning 6 sem. €439 2 days/week German Mix of online and on-site

* Most programmes are taught in German. See language notes in the cost section above for exceptions.
** SRH Heidelberg and Fresenius Heidelberg offer selected Master’s programmes in English.

Key insight for international students: Over a third of all Information Systems programmes are dual – meaning employers fund them. However, dual programmes require a contract with a German company and German language skills (B2+). For English-speaking international students, distance learning or the English-taught Master’s programmes at SRH and Fresenius are the most accessible entry points.

Admission Requirements for International Students

Private universities in Germany have no Numerus Clausus (NC) for Information Systems – all programmes are open admission. Formal requirements vary by degree level:

RequirementBachelorMaster
Academic qualification Secondary school certificate equivalent to German Abitur or Fachabitur First degree (min. 180 ECTS)
NC (GPA cutoff) None None
German language B2–C1 (most programmes) B2–C1 or English (selected programmes)
English language Not required for German-taught programmes IELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL 80+ for English-taught programmes
Visa Student visa required for non-EU nationals Student visa required for non-EU nationals
Credential evaluation uni-assist or direct (varies by university) uni-assist or direct

Tip for international applicants: Start the visa process early – it can take 4–12 weeks depending on your country. You will need a blocked account (Sperrkonto) with approximately €11,904/year to prove financial means. Most private universities have dedicated international offices that guide you through the application.

Career Prospects and Salary: What Do Information Systems Graduates Earn?

Information Systems ranks among the highest-paying degree subjects in Germany with one of the lowest unemployment rates. The IT skills shortage means graduates typically receive multiple job offers.

Salary Development by Experience

Career stageAnnual salary (gross)Typical positions
Entry level (0–2 years) €42,000–52,000 Junior Consultant, Business Analyst, Developer
Experienced (3–5 years) €52,000–68,000 IT Consultant, Project Manager, Product Owner
Senior (6–10 years) €68,000–90,000 Senior Consultant, IT Architect, Team Lead
Leadership (10+ years) €90,000–130,000 Head of IT, CTO, Partner (consulting)

Salaries vary by industry, company size and region. Consulting firms (McKinsey, Accenture), financial services and large corporations with extensive IT departments pay the most. Munich and Frankfurt salaries run 10–15% above the national average.

Career Fields with Strong Growth

  • IT consulting: Advising companies on digitalisation, ERP implementation and cloud migration. Entry at the Big Four (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG) or specialised IT consultancies.
  • Data analytics and BI: Building dashboards, KPI systems and data-driven decision frameworks. High demand in e-commerce, logistics and financial services.
  • IT project management: Leading digitalisation projects from requirements to go-live. Agile methods (Scrum, SAFe) are standard.
  • Cyber security: Protecting IT infrastructure, penetration testing, security audits. One of the fastest-growing fields with salary premiums of 10–20% over standard positions.
  • AI integration: Implementing AI solutions in business processes – a field that barely existed five years ago. Information Systems graduates are ideally positioned because they understand both the technology and the business case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Information Systems

Information Systems is demanding but manageable – the mathematics component is lighter than in pure Computer Science. The main challenge is breadth: you need to master both programming and business fundamentals. Drop-out rates at private universities are significantly lower than at public ones due to more intensive support.

Most Bachelor programmes are taught in German. For English-taught options, look at the Master’s level: SRH Heidelberg (“Computer Science – Cyber Security”) and Fresenius Heidelberg (“SAP Engineering & Analytics”) offer English-language programmes. Distance learning providers like SRH Fernhochschule provide English study materials for selected modules.

Information Systems combines IT with business – typical modules include ERP systems, business process management and IT consulting. Computer Science is more technical: algorithms, operating systems, compiler design. The mathematics component in Computer Science is heavier. Information Systems graduates typically work at the intersection of IT and business departments; Computer Science graduates more often in pure development roles.

Starting salaries range from €42,000 to €52,000 gross per year. With 5–10 years of experience, €68,000–90,000 is realistic. In leadership positions or specialised roles (SAP consulting, cyber security, AI architecture), six-figure salaries are achievable. Consulting firms and financial services pay the highest.

No. AI is changing the role of Information Systems professionals but not replacing them. Instead of writing routine code, the focus shifts to AI integration, system architecture and IT governance. Bitkom reports over 149,000 open IT positions in Germany – the skills shortage is not shrinking due to AI; the requirements are shifting.

In over 20 cities including Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne, Munich, Düsseldorf, Hanover and Potsdam. Distance learning programmes are location-independent. The widest on-site coverage is offered by FOM (approx. 30 locations) and IU (nationwide).

Related Programmes at Private Universities

Information Systems is one of several IT-related fields at private universities in Germany. Depending on your interests, these related programmes may be worth exploring:

Study Advice

Questions about the topic? Use our study advisory service, we are happy to help.