International Programmes 2024/2025

Computer Science for Digital Media Computer Science for Digital Media

Bauhaus-Universität Weimar • Weimar

Degree
Master of Science (MSc)
Teaching language
  • English
Languages

Courses are held in English (100%).

Full-time / part-time
  • full-time
  • part-time (study alongside work)
Programme duration
4 semesters
Beginning
Winter and summer semester
Application deadline

Applicants who graduated outside the European Union:
15 July for the following winter semester
15 January for the following summer semester

Applicants who graduated within the EU:
30 September for the following winter semester
31 March for the following summer semester

Tuition fees per semester in EUR
None
Combined Master's degree / PhD programme
No
Joint degree / double degree programme
No
Description/content

In the Computer Science for Digital Media Master's degree programme, which is taught in English, students are introduced to advanced topics in computer science, focusing in particular on data science and the applications of computer science to digital media. Professors and lecturers offer advanced courses, hands-on research projects, and Master's theses in their fields of expertise, including:

  • Algorithm Engineering
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Computer Graphics and Computer Gaming
  • Computer Vision in Engineering
  • Human-Computer Interaction
  • Machine Learning
  • Media Security
  • Natural Language Processing
  • Software Engineering
  • Usability
  • Virtual Reality and Visualisation

The infrastructure in Weimar is state of the art. Students have access to modern labs where they can work in the above-mentioned research areas. Research projects and Master's theses are supported and advised by the professors and research assistants. Students are involved in current research and development projects during their studies. The Master's programme offers students the opportunity to work on and co-author international publications. Teaching and research assistant positions as well as other jobs are available at the university and at local companies.

Well-trained IT specialists are in high demand both in Germany and on the international job market. Because this degree programme combines advanced computer science with application-oriented project work, our graduates easily find employment in the telecommunications, gaming and entertainment industries as well as in social media companies, content processing companies, cybersecurity companies, and in all manufacturing companies that are in the process of integrating digital data into their production processes. Our alumni report that MSc graduates often find employment in R&D departments in various industries as well as at large research institutes (e.g. Fraunhofer) or at universities and tertiary education institutions, where they often also pursue doctoral studies.

Course organisation

The programme consists of three main research modules. Two modules, "Security and Data Science" and "Graphical and Interactive Systems", lay the foundation on advanced subjects for the study course. In the third "Specialisation" module, students are required to visit additional courses from either of the two subject groups above to further deepen their knowledge according to their preferred specialisation.

Electives modules allow students to deepen their expertise in the above areas or widen their expertise by taking courses from other departments of the university. Students are also allowed to take language courses to broaden their personal skills, e.g. through courses in German for non-native speakers or courses in academic English for non-English native speakers.

In the second and third semesters, students participate in two research projects. Each project takes two fifths of the workload of the semester. In projects, which usually take place at the department labs and are mentored by researchers, students receive one research theme that they have to develop, conclude, and document within the semester. Project work is done in groups, so that students also acquire key skills such as project organisation, collaboration, communication, presentation, and scientific writing.

The final Master's project begins with an initial research phase, which takes place in the second half of the third semester. At the end of the third semester, students complete a literature overview to nail down the specific topic for their theses. The last semester is dedicated to work on the Master's thesis: a final presentation of the achieved work is required to achieve the Master‘s degree.

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A Diploma supplement will be issued
Yes
International elements
  • Language training provided
  • Projects with partners in Germany and abroad
Course-specific, integrated German language courses
No
Course-specific, integrated English language courses
Yes
Tuition fees per semester in EUR
None
Semester contribution

The semester contribution is approx. 220 EUR per semester. This is allocated to student services & the student council. It grants free regional bus transport in Weimar, Erfurt, & Jena as well as train transport in Thuringia. Moreover, it provides student discounts for meals at the university cafeteria & for theatre and museum tickets, along with access to the university sports complex. An additional fee for the "Thoska" student ID is 20 EUR (one-time only fee).

Costs of living

In Weimar, living expenses tend to be lower than in larger German cities. We recommend that students budget approx. 900 EUR per month:

  • Health insurance approx. 120 EUR
  • Books and stationery approx. 70 EUR
  • Rent approx. 310 EUR
  • Meals approx. 220 EUR
  • Other expenses approx. 180 EUR

Students coming from outside of the EU need to provide proof of financial resources amounting to 934 EUR/month in order to obtain a residence permit.

Funding opportunities within the university
Yes
Description of the above-mentioned funding opportunities within the university

There are scholarships granted by the university as an institution. There are scholarships based on academic merit and/or social engagement for second-year and more senior students.

The International Office grants scholarships through the Erasmus+ programme that support students (including international ones) who are going abroad for studies or internships.

Academic admission requirements

The prerequisite for admission to the Computer Science for Digital Media degree programme is a relevant Bachelor of Science degree. Relevant courses of study include computer science, computer engineering, media informatics, information technology, software engineering, or mathematics as well as other technical and scientific courses of study with a computer science focus.

FAQ regarding the application to the Computer Science for Digital Media programme:
https://www.uni-weimar.de/en/media/studies/computer-science-for-digital-media-msc/application-faqs/

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of English at level B2 (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages – CEFR). Equivalent tests:

  • IELTS (minimum 6.5 points – at least 6.0 in each band of reading, writing, speaking, and listening)
  • TOEFL (Internet-based) minimum 85 points
  • Pearson Test: PTE Academic – minimum 59 points

German level A1 is recommended but is not a requirement.

In order to register for the Master's thesis, students must provide proof of English at level C1 (CEFR). As part of our study programme, we offer advanced English classes up to level C1, which count towards the degree.

Application deadline

Applicants who graduated outside the European Union:
15 July for the following winter semester
15 January for the following summer semester

Applicants who graduated within the EU:
30 September for the following winter semester
31 March for the following summer semester

Submit application to

Prospective students who obtained their first university degree outside the European Union (EU) must apply via: www.uni-assist.de.

Applicants who graduated within the EU and do not need a visa should apply online here.

Possibility of finding part-time employment

A part-time job can be a good way to supplement your finances during your studies. There are opportunities for students who are looking for teaching and research assistantships at the university or part-time jobs with local companies and within the service sector of the city. International students should be aware that a good command of German is necessary for working outside the university (and for many jobs within the university as well).

Jobs are offered on the "Pinnwand" message board of the university, on the job portal operated by the Career Service, and on the "Studierendenwerk Thüringen's" Job Search platform.

International students from outside the EU are only allowed to work a limited number of hours in Germany (140 full days or 280 half days per year). Student jobs at the university are exempt from this rule. Either way, during the lecture period, students are not allowed to work more than 20 hours per week. The minimum wage is 12.41 EUR per hour and is standard for student jobs.

If you earn more than 538 EUR per month, you will be subject to higher health insurance premiums.

Accommodation

You can find accommodation in Weimar through the "Studierendenwerk Thüringen", which manages more than 1,000 apartments in the student halls of residence. These halls of residence are located at various locations in the city and are geared towards different needs and preferences. Accommodation costs between 250 and 350 EUR per month, depending on the size and location. The university itself does not provide accommodation.

If you want to rent a room through the "Studierendenwerk Thüringen" – which we strongly recommend to all newly arriving students – it is paramount to apply as early as possible as spaces are limited.

Further information: https://www.stw-thueringen.de/en/housing/residential-homes.html
Online application: https://www.stw-thueringen.de/en/housing/application/online-application.html

Typically, between two and up to five students share an apartment. Students have their own bedrooms and share a kitchen and a bathroom. Most rooms are furnished (bed, desk, chair, cupboard, shelf), but kitchenware and appliances are not included. Mentors for international students provide assistance in settling in during the first couple of days and also organise events.

Students advertise private and shared flats on the message board ("Pinnwand") on the university website: https://www.uni-weimar.de/de/universitaet/aktuell/pinnwaende/bereich/wohnen/.

Career advisory service

The Careers Service of Bauhaus-Universität Weimar offers individual career consultation, etc.
https://www.uni-weimar.de/en/university/studies/careers-service/

Support for international students and doctoral candidates
  • Welcome event
  • Buddy programme
  • Tutors
  • Specialist counselling
  • Visa matters
  • Accompanying programme
Supervisor-student ratio
The supervision ratio for 2024 is 10 students per academic staff member.

Bauhaus-Universität Weimar

Content Bild
Main building of the Bauhaus-Universität Weimar (UNESCO World Heritage Site) © Marcus Glahn, Bauhaus-Universität Weimar

The Bauhaus-Universität Weimar is a small, renowned, and very international university with a very distinctive range of subjects. It is located in the historic city of Weimar and emerged from two progressive institutions: The "Saxon-Grand Ducal School of Art Weimar" and the "State Bauhaus", founded here in 1919.

Various personalities from different countries have shaped the institution and developed ideas that are recognised and respected worldwide. At the Bauhaus-Universität Weimar, we continue to follow a unique path that offers unrivalled opportunities by combining science and technology with art and design.

The international and interdisciplinary approach encourages experimentation and offers space for creativity, which attracts an above-average number of international students to Weimar. The university specialises in study and research in the fields of architecture and urbanism, civil and environmental engineering, art and design, and media.

We offer an ideal space for creative academic and artistic work, supported by laboratories, workshops, studios, libraries, online teaching facilities, and a favourable student-teacher ratio. Bauhaus-Universität Weimar is connected worldwide due to a large network of partners, which our students benefit from through programmes such as study abroad periods as well as international projects and excursions. Among more than 200 international partners are universities and schools in Ethiopia, France, Italy, Japan, Romania, Switzerland, and the USA.

Here are some important facts from the history of the university: In 1919, Walter Gropius created the "State Bauhaus" in Weimar. Four years later, he called for the search for the "new unity of art and engineering". That meant combining the vanguard of art and design with modern industry. With this approach, the Bauhaus became the most famous school of architecture, art, and design in the 20th century.

Our university flourishes through its experimental environment, familiar atmosphere and especially through the people, who study, research, and work here at the university. The best way is to experience this special atmosphere yourself. Join our "Welcome to Weimar" online crash course or visit us, for example, at the annual Bauhaus Summer School and learn about what lies behind the following numbers:

Four faculties – Architecture & Urbanism, Civil & Environmental Engineering, Art & Design, Media
44 degree programmes
Approx. 4,100 students, including doctoral students
Approx. 27% international students
86 professors
More than 200 partner universities and more than 500 student exchanges

https://www.uni-weimar.de/en/university/international/to-weimar/fulltime-students/preparing-your-studies/

University location

The historic city of Weimar is a cosy town that has had a profound influence on Europe. This becomes most evident in architecture, art and design, music, and literature.

Weimar is situated right in the middle of Thuringia, the "green heart of Germany", and it is about 300 km from both the German capital, Berlin, and the German financial centre, Frankfurt am Main. Today, Weimar is a lively town with about 65,000 inhabitants and a town centre where you can reach everything within 15 minutes. The green areas of the town, such as the park on the Ilm River, include many sights, e.g. Goethe's summer house and the palaces of Tiefurt, Ettersburg, and Belvedere. Among many others, the famous German writers Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Friedrich Schiller walked in the park along the Ilm River. The famous pianist and composer Franz Liszt stimulated modern music, and the architects Walter Gropius and Henry van de Velde initiated modernism.

Weimar has much to offer art lovers, culture lovers, revellers, lovers of nature, and gourmets. There are more than 20 museums, three cinemas, a national theatre, various cabaret theatres, student clubs, concerts, and multifaceted cultural events, such as the traditional folk event and the "Zwiebelmarkt". Additionally, one can enjoy Thuringian delicacies like "Rostbratwurst" (sausage), "Rostbrätel" (marinated grilled meat), and "Thüringer Klöße" (dumplings). During the spring and summer, Weimar hosts the annual Bauhaus Spring School and the Bauhaus Summer School as well as Yiddish Summer Weimar (featuring klezmer music) and several art festivals. Other highlights include the "summaery" annual exhibition at the Bauhaus-Universität and the "Master classes" at the "Hochschule für Musik Franz Liszt". According to the International Student Barometer survey, 95.4 percent of international students commend the exceptional quality of life in the city of Weimar. We hope to welcome you to Weimar soon!

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