International Master of Science in Software Engineering
Teaching language
English
Languages
English only
Optional German courses are offered by the International Office.
Full-time / part-time
full-time
Programme duration
4 semesters
Beginning
Winter and summer semester
Application deadline
Non-EU applicants: 30 June for the following winter semester
EU applicants: 31 August for the following winter semester
Non-EU applicants: 15 December for the following summer semester
EU applicants: 15 February 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
The international Master's programme in Software Engineering combines a strong and thorough introduction to software engineering methods and techniques with complementary training in selected application domains. Based on state-of-the-art software engineering, the programme will provide students with the knowledge and skills required for creating complex software systems, in particular in the areas of modern information systems, cyber-physical systems, and AI. The programme combines strong scientific foundations with practical parts to ensure both a deep understanding of the relevant competencies as well as the ability to execute and manage those activities.
Course organisation
The two-year Master's programme in Software Engineering comprises four semesters with a total of 120 CPs (credit points). The study programme is structured into a methodological core (65%), an application area (10%), and a Master's thesis (25%).
Programme structure for the winter intake:
First semester:
Software Engineering Lecture (6 CPs)
Requirements Engineering for Quality Lecture (6 CPs)
Programming Languages Lab Lecture (3 CPs)
Advanced Web Development Lecture (6 CPs)
Research Methods (3 CPs)
and one methodological specialisation module of 6 CPs
Second semester:
Model-Based Software Engineering Lecture (6 CPs)
Software Architecture Lecture (6 CPs)
Software Engineering Tools Lab Course (6 CPs)
one methodological specialisation module of 6 CPs
and one application module of 6 CPs
Third semester:
Group development project (6 CPs)
Seminar (4 CPs)
Integrated research project (8 CPs)
one methodological specialisation module of 6 CPs
and one application module of 6 CPs
Fourth semester:
The Master's thesis is written during the last semester (30 CPs).
Programme structure for the summer intake:
First semester:
Model-Based Software Engineering Lecture (6 CPs)
Software Architecture Lecture (6 CPs)
Software Engineering Tools Lab Course (6 CPs)
one methodological specialisation module of 6 CPs
and one application module of 6 CPs
Second semester:
Software Engineering Lecture (6 CPs)
Requirements Engineering for Quality Lecture (6 CPs)
Programming Languages Lab Lecture (3 CPs)
Advanced Web Development Lecture (6 CPs)
Research Methods (3 CPs)
and one methodological specialisation of 6 CPs
Third semester:
Group development project (6 CPs)
Seminar (4 CPs)
Integrated research project (8 CPs)
one methodological specialisation module of 6 CPs
and one application module of 6 CPs
Fourth semester:
The Master's thesis is written during the last semester (30 CPs).
Course-specific, integrated German language courses
Yes
Course-specific, integrated English language courses
No
Tuition fees per semester in EUR
None
Semester contribution
You will pay a contribution to the student council of approx. 420 EUR per semester. This is a contribution to student services, university administration and the student council. You can use the local public transport in Hildesheim and Lower Saxony free of charge. You will benefit from discounts on meals at the university cafeteria and much more.
Costs of living
You will need around 850 EUR a month to cover your living expenses:
Rent approx. 350–500 EUR
Health insurance approx. 130 EUR
Books and stationery approx. 50 EUR
Meals approx. 200 EUR
Other expenses approx. 100 EUR
Funding opportunities within the university
Yes
Description of the above-mentioned funding opportunities within the university
The University of Hildesheim offers scholarships (such as the College of Minerva and Lore-Auerbach scholarships) supporting especially capable and socially committed students. You can apply once a year in June. Additionally, the International Office offers scholarships that support international students with graduation grants, for example:
The Master's programme in Software Engineering is highly relevant to students aiming to pursue careers in software engineering, either in research or in industrial practice. Students with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field are eligible to apply. Generally, students with strong analytical and conceptual skills and good programming skills are most suited for this programme.
Eligible admissions are prioritised according to the following criteria:
cumulative grade of your Bachelor's degree (53%)
amount and marks of Bachelor's courses related to Software Engineering (incl. mathematics and programming, 35%)
prior research activities in software engineering (6%)
prior practical activities in software engineering (6%)
Language requirements
English language proficiency is required to pursue the Master's programme in Software Engineering. Sufficient knowledge of English can be demonstrated by a certificate (TOEFL computer-based test score of 61 or above, IELTS band of 6 or above, or an equivalent certificate) or a German "Abitur".
Application deadline
Non-EU applicants: 30 June for the following winter semester
EU applicants: 31 August for the following winter semester
Non-EU applicants: 15 December for the following summer semester
EU applicants: 15 February for the following summer semester
There are many job opportunities for students on campus (in the different departments, the central administration, etc.) and off campus. You can find part-time jobs here:
International students are only permitted to work in Germany with a work permit. The student visa allows a maximum of 120 full days (or 240 half days) of work per year. If you earn more than 450 EUR a month, you will be subject to higher health insurance premiums.
Make sure your study workload and working hours remain balanced.
Accommodation
Accommodation is available through the Student Services Office or on the private market. Many students live in shared flats. Offers of room vacancies can be found on the notice boards in the university or online on "WG-Börsen" (shared flat marketplaces). The student services for Eastern Lower Saxony (Studentenwerk OstNiedersachsen) also has a room marketplace online.
Career advisory service
The career service is aimed at students and recent graduates of all degree programmes at the University of Hildesheim and in all phases of the transition from study to work. Contact us — we will be happy to support you! During career week, you can take part in workshops specially designed for international students, for example, application workshops or career talks.
Support for international students and doctoral candidates
Welcome event
Buddy programme
University of Hildesheim
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