At Mainz University, Computer Science is divided into four areas: Applied, practical, theoretical, and technical computer science.
Applied computer science attempts to implement IT concepts in administration, industry, commerce, and science. Here, the focal points not only include software engineering, modeling, and simulation, but also artificial intelligence, expert systems, fuzzy modeling, neural networks, and genetic algorithms.
Practical computer science examines specific problems in the core areas of Information Technology, such as operating systems, programming languages and their compilers, databases, and software technology. Of special importance here are the thorough analysis of tasks, the search for identical structures in different problem areas, and the implementation of solutions to problems by means of applying the knowledge of theoretical computer science.
Theoretical computer science deals with basic questions such as how different problems can even be solved with a computer, how quickly the best solution can be found, and whether it is necessary in certain situations to be content with solutions that are not quite optimal. Also analyzed are the possibilities to make calculations by using random numbers or to distribute them to several processors.
Technical computer science focuses on the technical implementation of computer systems. In addition to the basic functions of circuits, students are also trained in the basic principles of computer arithmetic, as well as the concepts and technical implementation options for communication networks, in particular the Internet. Alongside these purely academic topics, students are also introduced to specialist educational topics and concepts for the school environment.
Master entrance requirements
The subject Computer Science has to be combined either physics or mathematics.
Proof of a B.Ed. degree for college preparatory secondary school teaching in the same subjects from a university in Rhineland-Palatinate or an equivalent final degree from a university in Germany or abroad.
Applicants having a final degree that is not equivalent to but corresponds to at least 140 credit points to the required Bachelor's examination, may be admitted to the Master's degree program on the condition that the missing study and examination qualifications are obtained at the latest by the end of the first academic year. If the student does not provide proof within the period specified, they will no longer be allowed to continue studying; their enrollment will be canceled without further notice.
It is assumed that students have sufficient active and passive knowledge of the English language to read specialist literature in English and participate in courses taught in English; this does not include submitting written course work and writing examinations in the English language. Proof is not required.
Proof of proficiency in the German language to the level of the "German Language Proficiency Examination for Admission to Higher Education for Foreign Applicants (DSH)" is required for applicants, who either did not obtain their university entrance qualification at a German institution or whose degree was not from a degree program taught in German.
Information
The offers counselling for international students about the application process and general information.
The offers specific information on the subject (List available in German only).
The give information from a student perspective (List available in German only).