Master of Science in Software Engineering University of Hildesheim

English only

Optional German courses are offered by the university.

The international Master's programme in Software Engineering combines a strong and thorough introduction to software engineering methods and techniques with 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.

The study programme starts mid-October (winter start) or beginning of April (summer start).

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

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 winter intake:

First semester:

• Software Engineering Lecture (6 CPs)
• Requirements Engineering (6 CPs)
• Programming Languages (3 CPs)
• Advanced Web Development (6 CPs)
• Research Methods (3 CPs)

and one methodological specialisation module of 6 CPs

Second semester:

• Model-Based Software Engineering (6 CPs)
• Software Architecture (6 CPs)
• Software Engineering Tools Lab (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 summer intake:

First semester:

• Model-Based Software Engineering (6 CPs)
• Software Architecture (6 CPs)
• Software Engineering Tools Lab (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 (6 CPs)
• Programming Languages Lab (3 CPs)
• Advanced Web Development (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).

A list of available modules for methodological specialisation and applications can be found at https://sse.uni-hildesheim.de/en/teaching/software-engineering-master/.

Additional German language courses are offered, however, not required for the study programme, as all courses are offered in English. 

No tuition fees

You will pay a contribution to the student council. This varies, but is typically below 400 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.

You will need around 934 EUR per month to cover your living expenses:

• Rent, approx. 350 to 700 EUR
• Health insurance, approx. 130 EUR
• Books and stationery, approx. 50 EUR
• Meals, approx. 200 EUR
• Other expenses, approx. 100 EUR

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. Earlier software engineering education is welcome, but not required.

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/formal methods and programming, 24%)
• prior research activities in software engineering (6%)
• prior practical activities in software engineering (6%)
• other general assessment criteria (11%)

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". 

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

The university offers Lore-Auerbach scholarships supporting especially capable and socially committed students. Students in acute financial emergencies can apply for a scholarship from the Social Fund. The university is also in charge of scholarship programmes like the Deutschlandstipendium (the German public-private scholarship) and the Landesstipendium Niedersachsen (scholarship of the State of Lower Saxony).
See: University of Hildesheim scholarships

Additionally, the International Office offers scholarships that support international students with graduation grants, grants for commitment, the DAAD Prize (funded by the DAAD / Federal Foreign Office, AA), and Rotary Club scholarships.
See: International Office

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:

• career service
• student and research assistant positions

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 538 EUR a month, you will be subject to higher health insurance premiums.

Make sure your study workload and working hours remain balanced.

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.

The career service is aimed at students and recent graduates of all degree programmes at the University of Hildesheim 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, in application workshops or career talks.