Master of Science: Computer Science

Unlock Your Potential

A study program that sets new standards

The rapid evolution of computer systems and technologies influences all industries, requires innovative solutions, and actively shapes change processes in business, science, and society. The Hasso Plattner Institute offers a key resource for this dynamic development with its Master's degree program in Computer Science.

The interdisciplinary, English-language study program combines various computer science disciplines to address the forward-looking issues of our time. From digitalization in medicine to the design of artificial intelligence, the focus is on handling the areas of concentration with responsibility and inclusivity.

Program overview

Title: Computer Science

Degree: Master of Science*

Standard period of study: 4 semesters (full-time), suitable for part-time study (more info here)

Credit points: 120

Language of instruction: English (min. C1)

Start: Summer and winter semester

Application deadline: December 01 and June 01

Costs: No tuition fees (only semester fee of the University of Potsdam)

Click here to apply

*The Master of Science degree is awarded by the joint Digital Engineering Faculty of HPI and the University of Potsdam (UP).

What can I expect from a Master's program in Computer Science at HPI?

The Master's in Computer Science offers a comprehensive and challenging education. The course content is tailor-made for students who want to take their IT expertise to a new level.

The track structure allows our students to discover the diversity of computer science while specializing in the area that excites them the most. The tracks are based on our interdisciplinary research clusters:

Algorithms and Foundations
Data and AI
Digital Health
Security Engineering
Systems

In the "Open Track", modules from all areas can be taken, so that computer science can also be studied without specialization.

In addition, special emphasis is placed on improving methodological skills at the research level. Through compulsory modules such as "Research Methods & Ethics" and "Critical Reading & Discussion," students learn to understand and implement ethical problems in the context of scientific activities.

Students at the Hasso Plattner Institute are also challenged and supported personally. Our curriculum integrates elective modules from the area of professional skills, which include courses in design thinking, entrepreneurship, and management.

Graduates are equipped with comprehensive IT expertise in technical and interdisciplinary skills.

Computer Science Lab

Scholarships for international students

The scholarship program offers the opportunity to continue an academic education in Germany with a postgraduate study program in Computer Science (M.Sc.).  

The scholarships of 1,100 euros/month are aimed at t foreign students who demonstate academic excellence, and who have not obtained their first academic degree in Germany. These scholarships are intended to enable students to finance their studies in Germany regardless of their income situation.

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What can my future look like after my studies?

The study program is designed to provide a profound understanding of the impact of digitalization on business, science, and society. The aim is to use the acquired skills for future fields of activity to proactively drive innovation and shape the future.

Our alumni are able to carry out development and research work independently. At the same time, different career prospects are taken into account — whether this means setting up an IT company, qualifying for doctoral studies, or leading a business operation to the forefront of technological development.

The Master's degree program in Computer Science prepares students specifically for key positions in management and leadership. This is especially the case in areas where the design, implementation, maintenance and operation of complex computer systems, applications, infrastructures, and solutions play a decisive role.

HPI graduates can, for example, work in project management, IT consulting or software and application development. Qualifications are met for positions such as software architect, data scientist, or IT entrepreneur. In addition, graduates have in-depth specialist knowledge in their selected focus areas.