Computer Science at HPI
In the Master's program in Computer Science at the joint Digital Engineering Faculty of HPI and the University of Potsdam, you learn to solve societal challenges through digital innovations and thus actively shape the future – from improving healthcare to designing artificial intelligence that acts inclusively and responsibly.
Did you know? HPI awards scholarships to international students. Find out more here.
The program is practice-oriented, there is a great supervision ratio, and there are lots of disciplines. So everyone has the opportunity to find a topic that truly excites them.
Five reasons for your master's degree in Computer Science at HPI
- Valuable practical contacts at the start of your career
- Working in small groups and intensive supervision by professors
- State-of-the-art IT and well-equipped computer pools
- Tuition-free studies through the joint faculty of the University of Potsdam
- An attractive and well-connected campus at Griebnitzsee in Potsdam
Facts about the program
- Application deadline: December 1* / June 1*
- Start of studies: Summer semester* / Winter semester*
- No tuition fees**
- Credits: 120
- Language: English (at least C1)
- Instruction: English (at least C1)
- Standard study period: 4 semesters***
* Summer semester's application period for 1st semester: from November 1 to December 1 / Winter semester's application period for 1st semester: from April 1 to June 1 ** only University of Potsdam semester fees; *** suitable for part-time study (more info here)
Study contents: Computer Science (M.Sc.)
The master's program in Computer Science is more than just a degree – it is an invitation to be at the forefront of technological development and actively shape the world of tomorrow – whether it's achieving better security on the internet or more precise diagnoses in medicine. Are you ready to tackle these challenges?
The track structure allows you to explore the diversity of computer science while taking on the track and in an area that excites you the most. The tracks are aligned with our interdisciplinary clusters. Even after choosing your track, you have the opportunity to attend courses from other specializations and further expand your knowledge individually.
* Some lectures in the Security Engineering Track are currently only available in German.
In the Algorithms and Foundations Track, you train your problem-solving skills. The focus is on formal, clear thinking, as well as clear communication of complex issues and justifications, both orally and in writing. The content focus is therefore on (a) problem modeling; (b) problem analysis; and (c) problem solving. Formal methods are primarily used here, particularly methods from mathematics and theoretical computer science. Formal models and algorithmics play a central role in the courses of this track and form the research focus of this specialization.
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In an increasingly data-driven world, machine learning and big data play central roles in industry, society, and innovation. The Data and AI Track prepares you to take on a key role in this dynamic environment.
The curriculum develops strong mathematical skills as well as problem-solving and data management competencies, based on a solid core education and focused electives. You gain foundations in statistics, machine learning, artificial intelligence, data management, and data integration.
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In the Digital Health Track, you learn to use and further develop digital technologies specifically in the healthcare sector. You build interdisciplinary knowledge at the intersection of computer science, medicine, and health sciences, and engage with issues such as data protection, ethical questions, and handling health data. At the same time, you develop technological skills in programming, data analysis, AI, and software development, specifically geared towards healthcare applications. Through practical projects and collaborations with healthcare organizations, you can directly apply your knowledge and develop innovative solutions for real medical and organizational challenges.
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In the Security Engineering Track, you learn to systematically protect IT infrastructures and develop security strategies. You engage with the theoretical and technical foundations of IT security, attack detection, and the defense against cyberattacks. The focus is on developing and applying methods and techniques to monitor and protect complex systems. Practical issues such as analyzing different attacker types, cryptographic procedures, or data protection aspects are central. This prepares you to design and implement security solutions for real IT systems.
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Acquire solid skills in IT systems engineering, software engineering, and computer science — that’s exactly what awaits you in the Systems Track. You will learn to analyze, plan, implement, and further develop complex IT systems. At the same time, you will explore how requirements can be systematically captured, how systems can be designed to be flexible and scalable, and how quality, security, and performance are considered from the outset. In practice-oriented projects and software labs, you directly apply technical concepts. You can also specialize in areas such as software architecture, human-computer interaction, or operating systems.
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Open Track means you can flexibly design your course of study by combining content from two other tracks. You choose the courses and specializations that interest you most, allowing you to set your personal focus. This gives you the opportunity to build interdisciplinary knowledge and develop individual competencies in areas that are particularly relevant to your career or research interests.
Additionally, we place special emphasis on improving your methodological skills in scientific work. Through mandatory modules such as:
- “Research Methods & Ethics”
- “Critical Reading & Discussion"
you will learn to understand and address ethical issues related to scientific conduct.
You will also be personally challenged and supported in the Computer Science Master's at HPI. Our curriculum integrates elective modules in the area of "Professional Skills", including courses in “Design Thinking”, “Entrepreneurship”, and Management. Technical and interdisciplinary skills are learned, making you a graduate with comprehensive IT expertise and enhanced soft skills.
You work collaboratively on a selected research-related question – also application-related through our project partners – in one of the study program tracks. Through your active participation in the development of innovative solutions, you gain deep insights into current research work and strengthen your skills in scientific work and writing.
The Computer Science Lab is a compulsory module for every student.
Model study plan: Computer Science (M.Sc.)
Scholarships for International Students
You have not obtained your first academic degree in Germany and would like to apply for the Master's program in Computer Science at HPI? We support you in financing your studies abroad! As a scholarship holder, you will receive a monthly grant of 1,100 euros for the entire standard period of study (4 semesters).
Career prospects
Whether it's preventing cyberattacks, improving healthcare, or developing innovations from data mountains – with your specialization in the master's program, you decide in which area you will boldly shape the digital future of daily life.
Really make a difference
You will work in positions where you can make a concrete impact. The Master’s of Computer Science specifically prepares you to take on key positions in leadership and management. Thus, the door is open for you in project management, IT consulting, or software and application development. Positions such as software architect, data scientist, or IT entrepreneur can also be assumed.
Career outlook
At the same time, different career perspectives are taken into account: whether you want to start an IT company, decide on a PhD, or lead a company to the forefront of technological development.
Boost your career thanks to our career program HPI Connect with its career fair: HPI Connect Fair
Admission Requirements
For the Master's program in Computer Science at HPI, the following admission requirements apply:
A Bachelor's degree* with a minimum total of 180 credit points in either:
Computer Science, IT-Systems Engineering, Data Science or related fields is needed.Further you need to show proficiency:
- Totaling at least 14 credit points:
Algorithms, Data Structures, and Theoretical Computer Science
- Totaling at least 15 credit points:
Software Development and Programming Languages
- Totaling at least 15 credit points:
Discrete Structures and Logic, Analysis and Linear Algebra, and Stochastics
- Totaling at least 10 credit points:
Technical Computer Science such as Operating Systems, Computer Architecture, or Distributed Systems
- English proficiency:
at least at the C1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
* or an equivalent first professional qualifying university degree
All admission requirements must be met in full at the time of application. The requirements cannot be acquired after admission.
Application
If you enjoy mathematics, teamwork, intellectual challenges, and have a good understanding of the English language, you’ll also have fun developing IT solutions for business, medicine, climate, and society with us. You can find all the information about the application process on the page for applying to the Master's program.
We have compiled the answers to the most frequently asked questions about applying for a master's degree program at HPI.
Contact
Dr. Johannes Wolf
Program Manager Computer Science (M.Sc.)
Phone: +49 331 5509-118
Mail: master-info@hpi.de
Prof. Dr. Gerard de Melo
Advisor Computer Science
Phone: +49 331 5509-118
Mail: master-info@hpi.de
Important documents and links
Last change: 26/05/2026, Geronimo Förster