MSc in Computer Engineering

Computer Engineering is a field that involves the analysis, design, and evaluation of computer systems with their hardware and software layers, and the use of computer-controlled systems in cars, smartphones and medical technology, for example. As a modern engineering science at the interface of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering is a key information technology discipline.

The Master's Program

The 4-semester Master's program in Computer Engineering aims at deepening in one or more Computer Engineering fields the knowledge students acquired in the Bachelor's program. The Master's program is designed to be research-related and provides especially the abilities necessary for analyzing problems in Computer Engineering independently and for developing the scientific methods required to describe and solve these problems.

The Master's program consists of two compulsory modules each in Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, an elective area, a module "Scientific Workstyle", the project group and the final thesis. The compulsory modules in Computer Science and Electrical Engineering strengthen the skills in the central fields of Computer Engineering. In elective courses, the students specialize in a specific field by choosing an area of specialization and also acquire a broad base of knowledge through more elective modules. The Master's program offers the following areas of specialization:

• Embedded Systems
• Nano/Microelectronics
• Computer Systems
• Communication and Networks
• Signal, Image and Speech Processing
• Control and Automation

In the module "Scientific Workstyle", students complete a research-oriented seminar and, in parallel, a further elective course that strengthens their individual competence in the language, writing, or presentation skills. The project group is a two-semester course in which a team works together in collaboration on a research-related topic. The final thesis project covers the Master's thesis and a preparatory work planning phase and is often derived directly from the topic of the project group or from the student's own area of specialization. The final thesis can be started after students successfully complete a total of 45 credits (ECTS) in the modules.

Computer Engineering is a field of studies with an internationally reputable and recognized profile and job outline. In the prescribed 4-semester study period and with a total performance of 120 ECTS, students acquire a degree whose contents and scope match international standards.

The following diagram provides a descriptive overview of the Master's program in Computer Engineering. For a detailed description and explanation of the various subjects, modules, and elective courses, see the Examination Regulations and the Module Handbook.

Additional Prerequisites

The prerequisites for being granted admission to the Master’s program in Computer Engineering is a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering from Paderborn University or a similar Bachelor's degree from another college or university. In addition, proven sufficient proficiency in English and, for international applicants, a GRE Revised General Test or a very good or good CGPA in the Bachelor program are required for admission.

As an international applicant, you have to apply via the uni-assist online portal, which allows you to submit your application electronically. The uni-assist web site lists Paderborn University under "Universities (Master)" and heading "Northrhine-Westphalia". Before registering, please check whether you meet the admission requirements.

The Master’s program can be started in either the winter semester or the summer semester. The contact persons listed below are available for more information.

Career Options

Through the excellent education at Paderborn University, Computer Engineering graduates have many career options open for them. Computer engineers hold specialist and manager positions in research and development, project planning and manufacturing, measurement and test engineering, service and sales, management, and also education and training. The interdisciplinary qualifications acquired at the interface of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering are in large demand in especially these areas:

• Computer Technology
• Communications Technology, e.g., mobile communication
• Nano/Microelectronics
• Embedded Systems, e.g., automotive technology, aerospace, and medical systems
• Microsystems Technology
• Manufacturing Process Automation
• Robotics

These areas have a very high turnover and a high demand for qualified workers. This is especially the case in Germany, with its many leading companies in the automotive, medical, automation, and mechatronics industries. Because the existing "engineering gap" will increase in the coming years, excellent job prospects are expected on the whole for Bachelor's and Master's graduates in Computer Engineering.

Students acquire competence not only in their major field. Multidisciplinary expertise is also trained intensively throughout their studies through projects, seminars, and internships. As a result, Computer Engineering graduates hold the best prerequisites for their professional careers. In comparison to graduates of the Bachelor's program, the Master's program graduates receive an in-depth education. Because the topics in the Master’s program are oriented towards the areas listed above, Master’s graduates already gain specialized qualifications in specific scientific fields. In addition, through the specialization areas and the Master's thesis, they are introduced to current scientific challenges and are thus optimally prepared for industrial or academic research.