First Degree

You need to have an university degree (bachelor or equivalent), either from Germany or an equivalent foreign degree, in a higher education program comprising at least six semesters that qualifies to practice a profession.

If you have not yet completed your BSc at the time of application: you must have earned at least 2/3 of the total credits (i.e. 120 ECTS) and submit a graded transcript of records with preliminary BSc grade.

Language

You are required to prove English language skills at level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Accepted certifications are: Link.

Command of the German language is not required, but will be helpful. 

Mathematics

You need at least 20 credits in mathematical modules. Out of these, at least 5 credits need to be in the area of linear algebra or analysis and at least 5 credits in the area of probability theory or statistics.

Computer Science & Programming Skills

You need at least 10 credits in computer science modules. Out of these, at least 5 credits need to be in the area of algorithms (sorting, searching, data structures, complexity) and at least 5 credits in a module in which you acquired knowledge in a higher programming language, such as C/C++, Java or Python.

You can obtain both, mathematics and computing skills, in addition to your BSc studies.

Selection Points: Theoretical Computer Science

To earn an additional 10 selection points, you will need to document coursework amounting to at least 15 ECTS in theoretical computer science. This may include courses on subjects like algorithms, automata theory, graph theory, computational complexity, cryptography, computability, computational geometry, quantum computing, and more. It is recommended to include a module description as not all courses with the relevant name may match the contents/ level needed to be considered eligible. 

Selection Points: Interdisciplinary Data Science

To earn an additional 10 selection points, you will need to document coursework amounting to at least 15 ECTS in interdisciplinary data science. Please understand that this does NOT include more typical data science subjects like AI, Computer Vision or different mono-disciplinary coursework. Examples of accepted courses include subjects like geographical information systems, AI ethics, business intelligence. Coursework from robotics and engineering can be accepted, depending on the course contents. Please include module descriptions. 

Selection Points: Research Experience

You can earn another 20 selection points for proof of at least 450 hours of research-related activities. This could be work experience, a research paper, conference participation, or internship. However, it must be extracurricular: you cannot have earned credits for this, nor can it be a result of or part of your coursework. For documentation, a link to the project/institution plus short letter from a supervisor outlining your participation, are acceptable.