MS in Computer Science in Germany: Top Universities, Cost of Studying & Scope

MS in Computer Science in Germany: Top Universities, Cost of Studying & Scope

Jasmine Grover logo

Jasmine Grover

Content Strategy Manager | Updated On - May 3, 2024

Masters in Computer Science from Germany is a 2-year postgraduate degree in computer science and information technology offered at more than 40 German universities. Germany’s position as Europe’s largest economy makes it a centre of technological excellence. German universities provide master's courses often at minimal costs as compared to other countries. The MS in Computer Science in Germany program combines CS course specializations with research and internships, helping you apply theoretical knowledge in real-world applications.

To qualify for admission to MS in Computer Science in Germany, you need a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or equivalent with a 6.0/10 GPA and an IELTS score of 6.5. One of the greatest advantages of pursuing MS courses in Germany for computer science is that German public universities provide education with no tuition fees at a minimal semester fee of EUR 150 to 300.

  • The annual cost of studying MS in Computer Science in Germany in private universities ranges from EUR 11,000 to 17,000
  • After completing the course, you can expect entry-level salaries of EUR 56,000 with career opportunities in multinational corporations.
  • The top recruiters for MS in Computer Science graduates in Germany include BMW, Bosch, Bain & Co., PwC, Volkswagen, Deloitte, etc.

Universities for MS in Computer Science in Germany

Germany is a top destination for international students pursuing a Masters in Computer Science. German universities have a strong reputation for research and innovation in computer science. Many rank highly in global university rankings. Some of the best universities in Germany for MS in computer science are – 

QS Ranking 2024 University Program Offered Program Fees Annually (Euro) Program Fees Annually (in INR)
#37 Technical University of Munich MS in Computational Science & Engineering MS in Data Science 12,000  10.73 lakhs
#106 RWTH Aachen University M.Sc. in Computer Science No tuition fees No tuition fees
#246 Technical University Darmstadt MS in Computer Science 1200 1.07 lakhs
#192 University of Freiburg MS in Computer Science 3,000 2.68 lakhs
#=154 Technical University of Berlin M.Sc. in Computer Science 8,000 7.15 lakhs
#87 Heidelberg University MS in Data & Computer Science 302 27,034
#401 University of Passau MS in Computer Science 208 18,613
#312 University of Stuttgart M.Sc. Computer Science 3,000 2.68 lakhs
#451-500 University of Goettingen M.Sc. in Applied Computer Science 666 59,598
#246 Technical University Dresden M.Sc. in Computer Science 1,000 89,487
#478 University of Konstanz MS in Computer & Information Science 3,358 2.9 Lakhs
#239 Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn  M.Sc. Computer Science 647 57,979

Most German universities offer MS in Computer Science courses in English medium. However, some top-ranking universities in Germany such as Free University of Berlin and ULM University offer MSc. in Computer science in complete German instruction mode. 

Check Out: Computer Science Colleges in Germany


Top MS courses in Germany for Computer Science

Germany offers several top-notch MS courses in Computer Science, attracting students worldwide.

Program Acceptance Rate GRE Score Required Avg. Base Salary (EUR) Top Recruiters
Technical University of Munich (MS in Comp. Science & Engineering) Competitive (15-20%) Yes (Avg. Required Score: 320+) €95,000+ Siemens, BMW, Bosch, Intel, Deutsche Bank, Microsoft
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (M.Sc. in Computer Science) Competitive (20-25%) Yes (Avg. Required Score: 315+) €90,000+ Daimler, Airbus, NVIDIA, Google, Facebook, Apple
University of Freiburg (MS in Computer Science) Moderate (30-35%) Optional (Strong application & research fit can compensate) €85,000+ ABB, Robert Bosch GmbH, Festo AG, Microsoft * IBM
Technical University of Berlin (M.Sc. in Computer Science) Moderate (35-40%) Optional €80,000+ Deutsche Bahn, HERE Technologies, Zalando, Uber, Palantir Technologies, JPMorgan Chase

These programs will provide you with an understanding of the basic computer science principles, preparing you for successful careers in the IT field.


Why Study MS in Computer Science in Germany?

Germany is a popular destination for international students who want to pursue their computer science studies abroad. German degrees are well-regarded globally, and education costs are reasonable. It would be best if you pursued your MS in Computer Science in Germany as – 

  • German universities are globally renowned for their education standards, ranking consistently higher in QS University Rankings.
  • The country’s rising economy creates a high demand for computer science engineers, leading to more job opportunities.
  • After completing your MS in Computer Science in Germany, you can average starting salaries of EUR 56,000.
  • German MS in CS programs offer specializations in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Cybersecurity, etc.
  • Many German universities offer Master in Computer Science courses in English medium.
  • Public universities in Germany offer Master in Computer Science courses in Germany for international students with no tuition fees, making it a cost-effective option.

German universities are known to excel in research and innovation. Many universities like TUM, KIT, and RWTH Aachen rank higher in their global computer science rankings. Studying in Germany the heart of Europe, you can explore international job prospects to enhance your career.​


Admission Process for MS in Computer Science in Germany

When applying for Masters in Computer Science in Germany, there are three primary application methods:

  1. Directly through University Portals
  2. Uni-Assist Applications (Centralised application platform) 
  3. DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service)

Check Out: Intakes in Germany

MS in Computer Science Admission Requirements

The basic eligibility criteria for applying to MS in Computer Science in Germany include –

  1. Bachelor's Degree in computer science, engineering, or mathematics
  2. GPA between 6.5 to 8.0 on a 10-point scale
  3. GMAT and GRE scores (Some universities may accept GATE results from Indian candidates)
  4. IELTS or TOEFL scores 
  5. German proficiency at a B2 level
  6. Official transcripts of academic records 
  7. Additional Documents Required: SOP/Letter of Motivation, letter of recommendation, CV

German Visa Requirements

Indian students typically need a national visa (D visa) for stays exceeding 3 months in Germany to pursue a Master's degree. The application fee for the same is EUR 75. To study in Germany for a Master's, Indian students need a student visa allowing part-time work (20 hours/week). After graduation, an 18-month post-study visa allows you to look for jobs. Securing a job lets you convert it to a work visa, potentially leading to permanent residency within 2 years.

Read More: German Visa

MS in Computer Science: University-wise Requirements

Studying MS in Computer Science in Germany requires international applicants to fulfil the following university-specific criteria:

University ELP Test scores German Language Test Scores
Technical University Munich TOEFL: 88 IELTS: 6.5 PTE: 6.5 Not required
RWTH Aachen University TOEFL: 90 IELTS: 5.5 TestDaF (in all four sections at level 4 minimum) DSH Stage 2
Technical University Darmstadt TOEFL: 95 IELTS: 7.0 PTE: 76 DSH: 2 B2-C1
University of Freiburg TOEFL: 95 IELTS: 7.0 PTE: 76 DSH: 2 Goethe: C1
Technical University of Berlin TOEFL: >87 IELTS: 6.5 NA
Heidelberg University TOEFL: 90 IELTS: 6.5 DSH: 2
University of Passau TOEFL: 87 IELTS: 5.5 DSH: 1 TestDaF: TDN 3
University of Stuttgart TOEFL: 95 IELTS: 7.0 NA
University of Goettingen TOEFL: 81 IELTS: 5.5 DSH: 2
Technical University Dresden TOEFL: 72 IELTS: 6.5 -
University of Konstanz TOEFL: 90 IELTS: 6.0 NA
Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn TOEFL: 95 IELTS: 7.0 NA

Student’s Perspective: MS in Computer Science in Germany Journey 

"Germany wasn't even on my radar initially," admits Aditya, a 24-year-old from Bangalore currently pursuing his Master's in Computational Science and Engineering at the esteemed Technical University of Munich (TUM).  "But after researching affordable options with strong CS programs, TUM jumped out. At €12,000 annually for the program, the tuition fees were significantly lower than US universities."

Akash highlights the data-driven approach that resonated with him. "The coursework is rigorous, with a focus on applying concepts to real-world problems. Last semester, we used machine learning algorithms to optimize traffic flow in a simulated city. After graduation, with my German language skills improving daily, I landed a Data Scientist role at Amazon Germany. The average salary here is around €85,000, and after a year and a half, I'm progressing in my career. The biggest challenge initially was adapting to the work culture – Germans are very direct, but I've learned to appreciate their efficiency.”


MS in Computer Science in Germany Cost of Studying

The cost of studying abroad includes both pre and post-arrival expenses. 

Pre-arrival Expenses

Pre-arrival charges may include standardised test fees (such as the GRE or TOEFL), and visa application fees. Indian students who wish to study in Germany must apply for a student visa. The pre-arrival costs for an MS in Computer Science in Germany are –  

Expenses Costs (in Euro) Costs (in INR)
GRE 252.58 22,550
GMAT 257.62 23,000
IELTS 182.02 16,250
TOEFL 189.30 16,900
German Student Visa Application 75.43 6,734

MS in Computer Science in Germany Tuition Fees

The program's tuition fee makes up the majority of your post-arrival costs when studying overseas. The annual tuition costs of the top colleges providing the program are listed in the table below:

University Program Fees Annually (in Euro) Program Fees Annually (in INR)
Technical University of Munich 12,000 10.73 lakhs
RWTH Aachen University No tuition fees No tuition fees
Technical University Darmstadt 1200 1.07 lakhs
University of Freiburg 3,000 2.68 lakhs
Technical University of Berlin 8,000 7.15 lakhs
Heidelberg University 302.10 27,034.21
University of Passau 208 18,613
University of Stuttgart 3,000 2.68 lakhs
University of Goettingen 666 59,598
Technical University Dresden 1,000 89,487
University of Konstanz 3,358 3.00 lakhs
Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn 647.9 57,979

MS in Computer Science in Germany Tuition Fees

The universities that do not have tuition fees require international students to submit semester fees. This ranges between 300 - 500 euros (INR 26,416 - 44,027).

Check Out: How to Study in Germany for Free?

Cost of Living in Germany

The cost of living in Germany includes expenses like accommodation, books & materials, lifestyle and others. This cost is highly dependent on the choice of accommodation and living standards. Below is a table detailing these costs for popular universities:

Expenses Costs per month (in Euro) Costs per month (in INR)
Accommodation (room in a shared apartment) 345 - 650  30,786 - 58,002
Food costs 120 - 285 10,708 - 25,431
Phone contract/ Prepaid SIM card 10 - 30  892 - 2,677
Statutory health insurance (incl. long-term care insurance) 125  11,154
Learning materials 50 4,461

The estimated monthly cost of living in Germany is approximately 934 EUR (83,345 in INR).


MS in Computer Science in Germany: Scholarships

International students studying in Germany can receive financial aid in the form of loans and scholarships. The following scholarships are available to students enrolled in MS programs in computer science at renowned German universities:

University Scholarship Amount (Euro) Additional Information
TUM TUM Scholarship 500-1500/Semester One-time
RWTH DAAD Full-time program Government funded
Technical University Darmstadt Thomas Weiland Foundation 750/month Eight scholarships are offered yearly
University of Freiburg Germany Scholarship 300/month Outstanding-performing students are eligible
TU Berlin UNESCO Scholarships Varies Applications are made via the British Council

Check Out: German Scholarships for International Students


MS in Computer Science in Germany Job Scope

Germany is a country that has fully embraced digitization, making it a hub for IT/CS professionals. With a pool of opportunities in business digitization and public digital services, an MS in Computer Science for Germany is your way to the new digitized age. Here are some popular job designations offered to postgraduates in computer science in Germany, along with their average annual salaries in euros and the equivalent in Indian rupees:

Job Designation Average Annual Salary (in EUR) Average Annual Salary (in INR)
AI Developer 65,000 58.14 lakhs
Computer Networks Architect 76,358 68.30 lakhs
Javascript Developer 55,000 49.20 lakhs
Software Developer 52,000 46.51 lakhs
Application Developer 51,968 46.48 lakhs
Software Engineer 57,666 51.58 lakhs

The below graph shows the salary of Computer Science graduates based on years of experience:

Computer Science graduates Salary based on years of experience

Though getting a work permit in Germany can be difficult, internships while studying at popular institutes can help you land with great companies. The country has a 38 working hour per week requirement with a minimum of 18 holidays a year. This makes Germany a great work destination. Studying for a Masters in computer science in Germany provides an excellent opportunity for international students to participate in a top-tier academic setting, explore various professional opportunities, and immerse themselves in the country's rich culture. Germany is committed to innovation, provides inexpensive education, and is known for its welcoming climate, making it an excellent choice for overseas students pursuing careers in computer science.

FAQs

Ques. Is German compulsory for MS in Computer Science in Germany?

Ans. German is required for pursuing MS in Computer Science in German universities where the mode of instruction is German or Dual.

Ques. Is GATE required for MS in Computer Science in Germany?

Ans. GATE score is required for admissions at some of the universities in Germany, like the Technical University of Munich.

Ques. What is the cost of studying MS in Computer Science in Germany?

Ans. Some universities in Germany do not have tuition fees. However, the cost of studying is around 272 - 6,716 Euro (23,951 - 5.91 lakhs INR) Euro for the complete program.

Ques. What are the best colleges to study MS in Computer Science in Germany?

Ans. Some of the top colleges for studying MS in Computer Science in Germany are TU Berlin, TU Munich, University of Stuttgart, University of Goettingen, etc.

Ques. Is Germany good for MS in Computer Science?

Ans. Studying MS in Computer Science in Germany is a great option as the cost of study is lower than in other popular international student destinations, Germany is one of the leading European economies, and the advent of technology in the software domain in Germany is on the rise.

Ques. What are the admission requirements for an MS in Computer Science in Germany?

Ans. Admission requirements typically include a bachelor's degree in a related field, language proficiency (English or German), standardised test scores (IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL: 80+ | GATE: 90 | GRE: 310 - 320), academic and official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

Ques. What are the job prospects after completing an MS in Computer Science in Germany?

Ans. Germany has a strong demand for skilled professionals in the field of computer science. Graduates can find opportunities in various sectors, including IT, software development, engineering, consulting, and research.

Ques. What are the popular specializations for Indian students who are looking to study MS in Computer Science in Germany?

Ans. The popular specialization for MS in Computer Science in Germany are – 

  • Algorithms and Scientific Computing
  • Databases and Information Systems
  • Business Analytics and Data Science
  • Computer Architecture
  • Distributed Systems and Computer Networks
  • Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
  • Computer Graphics and Image Processing
  • Software Engineering
  • Formal Methods and their Applications

Comments



No Comments To Show