Programme Profile

Computer Science is the science of information processing using a computer. It forms the scientific basis for modern information technology, and particularly for the development of software. Accordingly, the development of software for sophisticated application problems is at the core of Applied Computer Science. Applied Computer Science can be understood as an intermediary between Computer Science and respective fields of application. In order to meet both information-based demands placed on modern software systems and the distinctive characteristics of application, experts in Applied Computer Science and general computer science must possess a sound knowledge of informatics, and must also understand the kinds of problems and challenges specific to each field of application. Possible fields of Applied Computer Science include information systems, bioinformatics, medical informatics and computational engineering. In Bamberg, Applied Computer Science is characterised by the fact that applications pertaining to the humanities and social sciences represent the core of the programme. To date, this programme focus is the only one of its kind in Germany!

The master’s programme in Applied Computer Science offers different foci and a broad range of options. Students with a big interest on foundations are able to select from a broad spectrum of theoretic modules; students with a preference for practical work, can choose besides the master thesis two projects, in which they can work on current research topics. The areas of specialization are:

AreaContent
Ambient Intelligent InteractionAmbient Intelligent Interaction deals with environments that adapt to users’ needs and allows users to interact with and through them (e.g., smart homes; Ambient Assisted Living). Students will gain competencies in the fields of smart environments, mobile assistance systems and user-centred design.
Data ScienceThe aim of Data Science is to retrieve information from data. Competencies in Information Retrieval, image and language processing, and semantic information processing are as important as is machine learning.
Cultural ComputingCultural Computing addresses digital libraries and archives, whose knowledge bases can be processed by applied social computing techniques. Furthermore, concepts and methods concerning geographic information systems are introduced and applied to specific problems.
Artificial IntelligenceIn Artificial Intelligence the focus is on competencies in machine learning, cognitive modelling, image and language processing, semantic information processing and smart environments.
Media InformaticsIn Media Informatics web technologies and foremost search engines for different media types are a primary topic in the master. Conceptual and information theoretic aspects of information retrieval as a relevant as the implementation and goal-oriented utilisation of search engines. A further focus is on 3D computer graphics and modelling of virtual worlds.
Human-Computer Interaction

Human-Computer-Interaction deals with processes and methods for designing user-centric, sophisticated and interactive systems, and their realisation through computer graphics, animation and cognitive modelling.

Current approaches and developments in these areas are further investigated in seminars, projects and theses.