Computer Science and Software Engineering

Computer Science and Software Engineering students take the following mandatory modules in the first semester (30 CP)

• Module: Introduction to Computer Science (7.5 CP)
• Module: Programming in C/C++ (7.5 CP)
• Module: Introduction to Data Science (7.5 CP)
• Module: Calculus and Linear Algebra I (5 CP)
• Module: Distributed Development (Part 1) (2.5 CP)

and the following modules in the second semester (30 CP):

• Module: Algorithms and Data Structures (7.5 CP)
• Module: Introduction to Cyber Physical Systems (7.5 CP)
• Module: Software Design and Prototyping (7.5 CP)
• Module: Calculus and Linear Algebra I (5 CP)
• Module: Distributed Development (Part 2) (2.5 CP)

The first two modules, Programming in C and C++ and Algorithms and Data Structures, introduce students to imperative and object-oriented programming and basic algorithms and data structures. The Introduction to Computer Science module discusses abstract and concrete notions of computing machines and algorithms, and the representation of information. Students are also exposed to a pure functional programming language. The Software Design and Prototyping module deals with prototyping software, also known as mockup systems. It is complemented by the Distributed Development module that deals with practical aspects of remotely developing software in teams distributed at different physical locations. The module Introduction to Cyber Physical Systems deals with the relations and interfaces of software to computer hardware, embedded systems, sensors and actuators, and networking. Relevant mathematical content is covered in the Calculus and Linear Algebra modules and in the Introduction to Data Science module.

In Year 2, Computer Science and Software Engineering students acquire the following mandatory modules (50 CP in total):

Module: Databases and Web Services (7.5 CP)

• Module: Operating Systems (7.5 CP)
• Module: Data Analytics and Modeling (7.5 CP)
• Module: Probability and Random Processes (5 CP)
• Module: Software Engineering (7.5 CP)
• Module: Artificial Intelligence (CSSE) (7.5 CP)
• Module: Machine Learning (CSSE) (7.5 CP)

In the second year, core areas of Computer Science with a high relevance to modern software development are covered in the modules Databases and Web Services, Operating Systems, Artificial Intelligence (CSSE), and Machine Learning (CSSE). Knowledge in Software Engineering itself is deepened in the according module. Relevant mathematical aspects are covered in the modules Probability and Random Processes and Data Analytics, where the latter – together with Artificial Intelligence (CSSE) and Machine Learning (CSSE) – also deepens the knowledge related to Data Science. Multiple modules include practical software development aspects, namely Software Engineering, Databases and Web Services, Artificial Intelligence (CSSE), Machine Learning (CSSE), and Data Analytics and Modeling.

The remaining 10 CP can be chosen from the Elective area, that include language, mathematics and skills, and problem-solving oriented modules that tackle global challenges beyond disciplinary boundaries.

During their third year, students prepare for and make decisions about their career after graduation. To explore available choices fitting individual interests, and to gain professional experience, students take a mandatory summer internship. It also allows Computer Science and Software Engineering students to take CSSE Specialization modules, mandatory Management modules and one further Elective module.

Computer Science and Software Engineering students take at least 15 CP from the following CSSE Specialization Modules:

• CSSE Specialization Module: Secure and Dependable Systems (5 CP)
• CSSE Specialization Module: Computer Graphics (5 CP)
• CSSE Specialization Module: Computer Networks (5 CP)
• CSSE Specialization Module: Distributed Algorithms (5 CP)
• CSSE Specialization Module: Automation (5 CP)
• CSSE Specialization Module: Robotics (5 CP)
• CSSE Specialization Module: Computer Vision (5 CP)
• CSSE Specialization Module: Image Processing (5 CP)
• CSSE Specialization Module: Human Computer Interaction (5 CP)
• CSSE Specialization Module: Web Application Development (5 CP)

Regarding the Management modules, a broad spectrum of topics is tackled, such as product development, innovation, marketing, leadership, general business, and change management. Students select two modules consisting of 5 CP each. A full list can be found on CampusNet.

As a core element of Constructor University’s employability approach students are required to engage in a mandatory two-month internship of 15 CP that will usually be completed during the summer between the second and third years of study. This gives students the opportunity to gain first-hand practical experience in a professional environment, apply their knowledge and understanding in a professional context, reflect on the relevance of their major to employment and society, reflect on their own personal role in employment and society, and develop a professional orientation. The internship can also establish valuable contacts for the students’ bachelor’s thesis project, for the selection of a master program graduate school or further employment after graduation.

As an alternative to the full-time internship, students interested in setting up their own company can apply for a start-up option to focus on developing their business plans.

In the collaborative software project, the students deepen their knowledge and skills in one or multiple areas of the first and especially second year. They are exposed to state-of-the-art research with the goal to derive ideas and strategies to address application-oriented problems and to develop software for them. Students learn how to organize and execute an application-oriented research and development (R&D) project. Students are expected to organize themselves in group work under the guidance of the instructor.

The curriculum of the study program is outlined in the schematic study plan: