International Programmes 2023/2024

Data Science Data Science

University of Potsdam • Potsdam

Degree
Master of Science in Data Science
Teaching language
  • English
Languages

The programme is taught in English.

Mode of study
50 / 50 online and on-site
Programme duration
4 semesters
Beginning
Winter semester
Application deadline

1 June

Tuition fees per semester in EUR
None
Combined Master's degree / PhD programme
No
Joint degree / double degree programme
No
Description/content

The interdisciplinary field of data science deals with methods for using data to automatically produce knowledge, insights, and models for prognosis, risk, and action. The Master's degree programme, which is taught in English, connects machine learning, statistical data analysis, natural scientific methods of data assimilation, and business analytics. The programme offers broad and interdisciplinary structured training in methods and is characterised by a strong emphasis on practice and research.

Course organisation

The interdisciplinary structured Master's degree in data science combines content from computer science, mathematics, information systems, and the natural sciences. Core courses provide you with an overarching understanding of machine learning and deep learning, statistical data analysis, data assimilation, business analytics, and big data infrastructures. More specialised courses help you engage with the current state of research in the chosen areas of focus.

In seminars, you will work through complex topics, and in the module of applied data science, you will apply the competences you have acquired in a practical manner. In the research module, you will be connected to a research project at the University of Potsdam or one of Potsdam's many research institutions. An internship in industry is also an option. Berlin/Potsdam's lively start-up scene and many big data companies offer ample opportunities for internships.

In the four-semester Master's programme, you will earn a total of 120 credit points, consisting of the modules and your Master's thesis. For additional information, please consult the subject-specific degree regulations or the Departmental Advisory Office.

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A Diploma supplement will be issued
Yes
Integrated internships

An internship in industry is a possible option. Berlin/Potsdam's lively start-up scene and many big data companies offer ample opportunities for internships.

Course-specific, integrated German language courses
No
Course-specific, integrated English language courses
No
Pace of course
Instructor-led (Specific due dates for lectures/assignments/exams)
Phase(s) of attendance in Germany (applies to the entire programme)
Yes, compulsory
Types of online learning elements
  • Online study material provided by institution
Tuition fees per semester in EUR
None
Semester contribution

No tuition is charged for studying at the University of Potsdam (with the exception of a few continuing education courses). There is only an administrative fee, which currently amounts to 316 EUR. This semester contribution includes a semester ticket entitling you to free use of public transport all over Brandenburg and Berlin.

Costs of living

Living in Germany is rather cheap compared to other countries in Northern and Western Europe. Monthly living expenditures of students at the University of Potsdam vary between 870 and 1,200 EUR, largely depending on accommodation. A more detailed list of the average monthly expenditures of our students can be found here.

Funding opportunities within the university
No
Academic admission requirements

Applying for a Master's degree generally requires you to hold an undergraduate degree, such as a Bachelor's degree. A first degree in either computer science or mathematics qualifies you for this Master's degree in any case. A degree in information systems or natural sciences qualifies you if your first degree strongly emphasised content from the areas of computer science or mathematics. Depending on your background, bridge modules can complete gaps in the other respective discipline.

You can find the exact prerequisites for admission in the subject-specific admission regulations for the Master's degree programme in data science.

Language requirements

The programme requires proof of good English skills corresponding at least to level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

Application deadline

1 June

Submit application to

Please submit your application online and via mail to uni-assist:

Universität Potsdam
c/o uni-assist e.V.
11507 Berlin
Germany

Possibility of finding part-time employment

Job opportunities for students alongside their studies are numerous. Depending on personal and professional skills, students can find jobs in the service sector (e.g. in restaurants, supermarkets, cinemas, museums, theatres, etc.) or work as student assistants at the University of Potsdam or at one of the many non-university research institutions located in the area. The German capital, Berlin, is located just around the corner, and students can also find jobs there. Please see this website for further information.

Accommodation

There are several student dormitories in Potsdam. These are administered exclusively by Potsdam's Association for Student Affairs ("Studentenwerk Potsdam"). You can apply for a room in one of these dormitories if you are under the age of 30. If you are a Master's student, you can only apply if the degree at the University of Potsdam is your first Master's programme. Additionally, there are also a few private dormitories in Potsdam, to which these conditions do not apply. However, many students prefer to find an apartment in Potsdam or Berlin, which they often share with fellow students. The housing market is tight, so please start looking for an accommodation as early as possible.

For information on how to register for a dorm room or find accommodation elsewhere, please click this link.

Career advisory service

The Career Service of the University of Potsdam supports students and graduates who want to actively shape their careers. The aim is to ensure comprehensive career orientation and to provide opportunities for the development of professional skills. The Career Service offers workshops, seminars, and individual counselling. There are information pages on a wide range of occupational fields as well as a database of internships and jobs. Many of the services are also available in English.

Support for international students and doctoral candidates
  • Specialist counselling
  • Visa matters
  • Welcome event
  • Buddy programme
  • Tutors

University of Potsdam

University location

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