Data Science University of Augsburg

The MSc Data Science offers a comprehensive education in the concepts and methods of data science, incorporating knowledge and methodology from Computer Science and Mathematics. Special emphasis is placed on the sound training of fundamental (mathematical) concepts as to be able to competently assess the properties and limitations of the methods.

As the programme includes compulsory courses in mathematics and computer science, we expect candidates to have a strong background in both areas.

The main topics are: 

• Machine Learning (ML), AI, and Deep Learning 
• Statistics, Matrix Algorithms, and mathematical foundations of ML 
• Data Structures, Algorithms and Optimisations for Big Data 
• Data Engineering with Big Data Infrastructures and Data Wrangling 

The programme offers a wide range of application areas in collaboration with adjacent departments: Medicine, Economics, Engineering, Geography, Material Science, Physics and others. It provides close connections to industry and research. The field of data science as a modern interdisciplinary science underpins the process of digitalisation and the effective utilisation of data in many application areas.

The programme consists of the following course categories (called module groups)

• Core Data Science Methods (32 credits)
  • Algorithms and Data Engineering
  • Machine Learning
  • Mathematical Foundations
• Advanced Data Science Methods / Elective Courses (at least 36 credits)
  • Broad range of elective modules in mathematics and/or computer science, e.g. Quantum Algorithms, Statistics, Optimisation, Modelling, Deep Learning, etc.
• Scientific Project Work
  • Data Science Project (10 credits)
  • Seminar: Mathematics and Computer Science (4 credits each)
  • Social Aspects of Data Science / Ethics (4 credits)
• Master's Thesis (30 credits)

Tips on how to organise your studies can be found in our FAQs: https://www.uni-augsburg.de/en/fakultaet/fai/informatik/studienangebot/msc-dsc/#faq_contacts.

The programme can be begun in both winter and summer semesters; the regular deadlines are 1 September and 1 March.

Due to visa processing times, we strongly encourage non-EU citizens to apply well ahead of the deadline (suggested: 1 May for winter, 1 December for summer). In this case, early admission is granted to allow sufficient time for visa processing.

For more information please see our FAQ at https://www.uni-augsburg.de/en/fakultaet/fai/informatik/studienangebot/msc-dsc/#faq_contacts.

Admission is possible for students with a (nearly completed) Bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Computer Science and related areas. Applicants undergo an aptitude test. More specifically, we expect students to show proof of sufficient previous knowledge in the following areas:  

• Multivariate Calculus/Analysis (at least 5 ECTS CP)
• Linear Algebra (at least 5 ECTS CP) 
• Fundamentals of (Higher) Programming Languages (at least 4 ECTS CP) 
• Practical Programming Experience (at least 4 ECTS CP), e.g. by practical exercises or a lab course 
• Algorithms or Numerical Methods (at least 5 ECTS CP) 
• Discrete Structures/Mathematics, Databases or Data Engineering (at least 5 ECTS CP) and
• Data Science or Machine Learning (at least 4 ECTS CP)

For details please also see our FAQ at https://www.uni-augsburg.de/en/fakultaet/fai/informatik/studienangebot/msc-dsc/#faq_contacts.

Administration fee of approx. 177.25 EUR per semester

This encompasses the contribution to the student union (responsible for cafeterias, housing opportunities and more student services) as well as the semester ticket (for public transport).

For possible scholarship opportunities, please consult https://www.uni-augsburg.de/en/studium/studieren-augsburg/stipendien/. Please note that in the German university system, grants are less commonly available than in some other countries. In particular, it is unlikely that you will be able to obtain a scholarship before beginning your studies. If you are considering applying for a scholarship after your first semester, please refer to the open scholarship announcements from the International Office.