Mathematics and Computer Science Master’s Degree
Master Mathematics and Computer Science
according to your taste
at Saarland University
Subject at a glance
Many modern tasks require in-depth knowledge of both mathematics and computer science. At Saarland University we realized this important connection and we established three joint professorships for mathematics and computer science. With the master’s degree program “Mathematics and Computer Science”, it is now possible for the first time in Germany to study both subjects equally balanced.
A major advantage of this program is that students can choose from a wide range of courses in both disciplines. In addition, final theses can be written on modern research topics at the interface between mathematics and computer science, thus gaining a deeper insight into their interaction.
In addition to the research areas of the three bridge professorships for mathematics and computer science (Prof. Bartholdi, Prof. Ochs, Prof. Weickert), other research groups at Saarland University are also active in this border area, for example in quantum information theory (Prof. Weber) or computer algebra (within the transregional research network SFB-TRR 195).
The courses of the Master’s program are held in English.
„Many modern research areas can no longer be tackled within only one discipline. Quantum information theory, for example, which in a way is the theory of ‘software for quantum computers,’ is equally divided between mathematics, computer science, and physics, and can only be understood in its depth with a holistic view combining all three disciplines.“
Prof. Moritz Weber
Excellent career prospects
Great career prospects for graduates of the Saarbrücken program are available in all traditional fields of work for mathematicians and computer scientists. In addition, exciting fields of work are offered in particular in research and development departments in the areas of finance, e-commerce, and mechanical engineering, medicine, the pharmaceutical and automotive industries and telecommunications. Here, graduates can optimally apply their strengths in both subjects and take advantage of the diverse career opportunities.
Your Profile
Sound basic knowledge in both mathematics and computer science is a prerequisite for admission to the master’s program – a one-sided education is not sufficient. Ideally, applicants have a profile similar to the degree of the Bachelor’s program in Mathematics and Computer Science of Saarland University. In mathematics, an emphasis is on certified studies in analysis, linear algebra, numerics and stochastics. In computer science, on the other hand, basic knowledge of programming, algorithms and data structures, and especially theoretical computer science is required – programming knowledge alone is not sufficient. A proof of English language skills is also required.
Your study program mathematics and computer science
In four semesters, the master’s program in mathematics and computer science teaches in-depth content of both mathematics and computer science and enables specialization in one of the two fields – or in both. In principle, it is possible to enroll to a subsequent PhD program in one of the two subjects.
Students seeking admission to the M.Sc. programme ‘Mathematics and Computer Science’ will need to fulfil the following admission requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from a German university or an equivalent qualification from a foreign university either in a subject area that closely combines mathematics and computer science, or in a related discipline.
- Proof of advanced proficiency in English (GER: C1, TOEFL: 95/120, IELTS: 7.0/9.0)
- Proof of subject-specific knowledge and skills corresponding to those taught in the Bachelor’s degree programme ‘Mathematics and Computer Science’ at Saarland University. Specifically, this requires applicants to show that they have the necessary level of expertise in the following areas:
1) Mathematics (analysis, linear algebra, numerical methods, stochastics)
2) Computer science and informatics (functional and object-oriented programming, algorithms and data structures, software development methods, theoretical informatics) - Evidence of the applicant’s particular interest in the subject in the form of a personal statement written by the applicant and two letters of recommendation written by referees who know the applicant academically.
Students can join the programme at the beginning of the summer or winter semester. Application deadlines are the 15th of May for the following winter semester and the 15th of November for the following summer semester. Applications should be submitted via the online application portal managed by the Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science. For further information on application and admission please go to the web page of this course of study.
Students can earn a total of 42 credits during the compulsory stage of the programme; 30 credits for the Master’s thesis and 12 for the accompanying Master’s thesis seminar. The Master’s thesis is to be completed within six months. Before completing their thesis, each student must contribute successfully to the Master’s thesis seminar on a subject directly related to the project work carried out for the student’s thesis.
In the compulsory elective part of the programme, students must acquire at least 78 credits. The compulsory elective part of the curriculum includes practical training phases, modules from core lecture courses, advanced lecture courses or seminars in the fields of mathematics and computer science; work performed as a course tutor or supervisor in problem-solving classes, language courses, soft-skills seminars, industrial work placements or internships, or departmental or university-related administrative duties. For further information, please consult the study regulations.
Prof. Dr. Moritz Weber
Campus Saarbrücken
Building E2 4, Room 3.10
66123 Saarbrücken
Phone: 0681 302-2556
Mail: weber@math.uni-sb.de
Central Student Advisory Service
Saarbrücken Campus
Campus Center, Building A4 4, ground floor
Tel.: 0681 302-3513
Mail: studienberatung@uni-saarland.de
Academic advising
Mathematics
Prof. Dr. Bildhauer
Campus Saarbrücken
Building E2 4, Room 1.02
66123 Saarbrücken
Phone: 0681 302-3406
Mail: bibi@math.uni-sb.de
Study coordination
Computer Science
Dr. Tanja Breinig
Campus Saarbrücken
Building E1 3, Room 2.09
66123 Saarbrücken
Phone: 0681 302-58092
Mail: breinig@cs.uni-sb.de
Mathematics
Prof. Dr. Bildhauer
Campus Saarbrücken
Building E2 4, Room 1.02
66123 Saarbrücken
Phone: 0681 302-3406
Mail: bibi@math.uni-sb.de
Facts about the Master Mathematics and Computer Science
- Application deadline: May 15 (winter semester) / November 15 (summer semester)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- No admission restriction
- Lectures in English
- Required English skills: GER: C1, TOEFL: 95/120, IELTS: 7.0/9.0
- Tuition fees: None
- Semester fee
Application Areas
The Bachelor’s Program in Mathematics and Computer Science is an interesting intersection between theory and application. An extremely exciting career and research field awaits you!
- Finances
- Telecommunication
- Logistics
- Quantum Technologies
- Cryptography
- Optimization
- Image Processing
- Machine Learning
Finances
Telecommunication
Logistics
Quantum Technologies
Cryptography
Optimization
Image Processing
Machine Learning
„The vast majority of advanced computer science lectures cover topics that are based on rich mathematical theory. The knowledge you learn in the mathematics and computer science program allows you to access these concepts much more quickly.“
Matias Klimpel Akahoshi, M.Sc. Mathematics and Computer Science
Frequently asked questions
There are a limited number scholarhips available for excellent students via the International Max Planck Research School for Computer Science. You just have to use in the OAS the option that you want to apply for IMPRS-CS. We take care that your application is forwarded to them.
If you intend to do also a PhD in Computer Science in Saarbrücken, then you can apply at the Saarbrücken Graduate School of Computer Science. In the preparatory phase before you have a PhD position you can get a monthly stipend, please see the webpage for more information also regarding the application process. In general, there are so many research institutes (Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at Saarland University, Max-Planck-Institute for Computer Science, Max-Planck-Institute for Software Systems, DFKI (German Center for Artificial Intelligence), CISPA) at the Campus and there are typically a lot of positions either as teaching or research assistant.
Studying at Saarland Informatics Campus
In the forefront internationally
At Saarland Informatics Campus, 4 internationally renowned research institutes and 3 networked departments of Saarland University, as well as 3 Collaborative Research Centers and 24 joint study programs, combine their individual strengths and competencies. The numerous world-class scientists, the talented junior staff, the lively collaboration and the extraordinary range of research topics make SIC a unique IT location in Europe.
This is where the future takes shape
In the Max Planck Institute for Informatics, multimedia technologies for the film industry are developed, while the Max Planck Institute for Software Systems works on programs that are found in almost all technical devices, from mobile phones to traffic lights. In the Center for Bioinformatics, individual medicines are researched. The German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence develops technologies for autonomous vehicles, to make the traffic of the future safer and car trips more comfortable, while the research results of the CISPA – Helmholtz Center for Information Security contribute toward protecting on-board computers from manipulation.
A campus university in the heart of Europe
Small but beautiful and with a low cost of living: This is the Saarland with its French flair, high quality of life, and diverse culture and nature – but above all its warm and open people. A semester ticket allows free trips by train or bus in the surrounding area, and Paris lures in less than two hours by ICE. Short distances are also to be found on campus: The cafeteria and the cafés invite you to relax and enjoy. The nearby forest and the sports courses offer opportunities to keep fit. And the university orchestra, choirs, theater groups, and language center offer cultural variety.