Computational Modelling and Simulation Dresden University of Technology

The Master’s programme in "Computational Modelling and Simulation" (CMS) is research-oriented, interdisciplinary and international. It is a joint curriculum between TUD’s Faculty of Computer Science, the Faculty of Mathematics, and the Centre for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB) with participation of the Faculty of Psychology, the Faculty of Medicine, the Faculty of Business and Economics, the Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering, the Faculty of Environmental Sciences and the Faculty of Mechanical Science and Engineering. This programme teaches the mathematical and algorithmic foundations and applications of computational modelling (learning models from data/machine learning, inverse problem, artificial intelligence) and computer simulation (numerical simulation, forward problem, logic). Specialisation is provided in one of the following application-specific tracks, offering unique flexibility to students:

• Computational Life Sciences (CMCB, Computer Science)
• Computational Mathematics (Mathematics)
• Visual Computing (Computer Science)
• Computational Modelling in Energy Economics (Economics)
• Computational Engineering (Mechanical Engineering)
• Applied Artificial Intelligence (Computer Science)
• Computational Environmental Science and Engineering (Environmental Sciences)

The CMS programme also offers the possibility to study on a fast-track into a structured PhD programme, benefiting from the participation of local key partners in the relevant fields, such as an international Max Planck graduate programme.

The curriculum focuses on long-lasting, transferable knowledge in a unique combination with cross-application problem-solving competence. The former is achieved through the universally valid contents of the foundational core modules, and the latter is achieved through cross-track seminars and a hands-on research project in an interdisciplinary environment.

The standard duration of studies is four semesters, including three semesters for coursework and one semester for the Master’s thesis. The core curriculum teaches computational modelling (machine learning and data analysis) and computer simulation (numerical methods). The tracks cover a wide range of applications. The application-specific track must be selected upon application.

The programme has a modular structure consisting of the compulsory area, the basic compulsory elective area (COR-modules, language modules, scientific methodological basic training modules) and the track-specific compulsory and compulsory elective area. 

The modules contain lectures, exercises, seminars, tutorials, research projects, and language courses.

First semester:

• Students select three COR-modules (in the scope of about 15 credit points)
• Soft Skills module (2 credit points)
• Students select modules of the respective track according to the study plan (in the scope of about 15 credit points)

Second semester:

• Students select one language course (5 credit points) 
• Students select one seminar of the scientific methodology basic area (3 credit points)
• Students select modules of the respective track according to the study plan (in the scope of about 20 credit points)

Third semester:

• Research module (15 credit points): application of acquired knowledge in an independent research project
• Students select modules of the respective track according to the study plan (in the scope of about 15 credit points)

The compulsory elective area of the selected track comprises modules in the scope of 50 credits. 

Fourth semester

Master's thesis project and defence as individual research work (30 credits)

• First university degree qualifying for professional activity in Computer Science, Mathematics, Natural Science, Economics/Finance, or Engineering (BSc or higher, including MSc, German "Diplom", BSc [Hons], etc.)
• Knowledge of English corresponding to at least level B2 of the European Frame of Reference for Language 
• Proficiency in computer programming in (at least one) compiled programming language
• Calculus of functions in one and multiple variables (partial derivatives, integrals, etc.)
• Basics of linear algebra (matrix and vector operations, matrix inversion, decomposition)
• Basics of probability (distributions, elementary probabilities, axioms)
• Basics of algorithms and data structures (arrays, lists, search and sorting, complexity)
• BSc-level knowledge in the application domain of the elected track

The CMS programme focuses on teaching the computer science and mathematics foundations of modelling and simulation and assumes familiarity with the above basics of the respective disciplines. Completed lectures on one or several of the following topics would be helpful but are not strictly requested:

• Parallel Programming / High-Performance Computing
• Numerical Methods / Numerical Algorithms / Numerical Analysis
• Stochastics / Probability / Stochastic Algorithms
• Data Visualisation / Information Visualisation / Scientific Visualisation
• Statistics / Experimental Design / Inference Methods
• Theoretical Computer Science / Formal Languages / Complexity and Computability
• Intelligent Agents / Knowledge Systems
• Software Engineering / Design Patterns / Scientific Code Development
• Database Management / Relational Data Models / Big Data Platforms
• Machine Learning / Data Mining / Computational Statistics

Currently, students pay approx. 340 EUR per semester (i.e. for six months). This includes a ticket for public transport and regional trains in all of Germany ("Deutschlandticket"). Additionally, students can use a bike rental service all over the city for free for 30 min. The contribution also assures concessions in the university cafeterias and offers benefits (e.g. price reductions) for many cultural and leisure activities in Dresden.

Dresden offers high quality of living at very moderate costs. Currently, students should expect to pay around 850 EUR per month including rent, food, insurance and basic expenses. This figure is relatively low compared to other big German cities.

In order to top up their budget, some students may want to look for temporary work in Dresden. If so, different regulations apply for students from EU member states, countries of the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland, and students from outside the European Union and the EEA area. In addition, restrictions on the duration of employment may apply. Professors, lecturers and group leaders involved in the Master's programme may offer students the possibility of working as academic assistants. However, living expenses can be financed only partially through a job as an academic assistant.

In addition to their application for admission to the tracks Computational Life Science or Applied Artificial Intelligence, eligible students can apply for a scholarship from the DAAD Zuse School of Excellence in AI SECAI to support their studies. Further information about eligibility criteria, the application process, selection criteria, and deadlines are available on the SECAI website about scholarships.

General information on scholarships and funding for students is summarised on a dedicated web page of the TU Dresden.

TU Dresden offers plenty of counselling and training by the Career Service to help students with finding professional orientation. They offer workshops to equip students with professional skills and help optimise their CVs.

Additionally, there are special workshops for international students to get to know the German and Saxon job market and network.

It is still relatively easy to find affordable accommodation in Dresden. Accommodation is available either via the "Studentenwerk Dresden" or on the private market. Rent for a single room in a student residence is approx. 250 EUR per month.
Private housing can be found online. We recommend that you move into a hall of residence at the beginning of your stay in Dresden. Subsequently, you can look for a place on the private market or in a shared apartment, which is known as a "Wohngemeinschaft" in German.