Annual Report 2007/2008 - Fachgruppe Informatik an der RWTH ...

Required Qualifications
Besides a general technical interest, and the requirements for the first main subject Communication
Science which comprise communicative skills in speech and writing, the second main
subject Principles of Computer Science requires good mathematical knowledge, whereas
knowledge of a specific programming language or industrial experiences are not required.
During the study, good English knowledge is essential.
Overall Structure
The curriculum of the second main subject Principles of Computer Science is split into two
parts. Stage I covers semesters 1 up to 4 while stage II covers semesters 5 to 9.
Stage I
The technical and methodical principles of computer science are taught over approx. 41
semester hours in total. The intermediate examination (Zwischenprüfung), which extends
over four individual exams, is passed study-attendant and comprises the topics Computer Science
I (Programming, Application Software and Internet, Algorithms and Data Structures,
Software Development), Computer Science II (Computability and Complexity, Computer
Organization), and Mathematics (Linear Algebra, Differential and Integral Calculus). Practical
courses or practical training certificates are prerequisite to an examination allowance.
Examinations usually are performed in the form of a written test. In addition to the courses
already mentioned, a course electronics in computer science and a software practical have to
be undertaken.
Stage II
Advanced and exemplary specialization knowledge of computer science is acquired over
approx. 40 semester hours. This stage is threefold into the Compulsory Eligible Subject,
Central Computer Science (a set of eligible courses making up 14 semester hours), and the
Computer Science Specialization (Stage II includes System Programming, Automata Theory
and Formal Languages, a mathematical course depending on the choice of specialization
direction, and a choice of courses offered by the Department of Computer Science). For
the second main subject Principles of Computer Science, Central Computer Science and
the Computer Science Specialization will make up the two majors of the oral examination
to obtain the Magister/Magistra Artium degree. In addition, one practical training and one
seminar certificate have to be performed successfully.
Professional Areas
Graduates of Technik-Kommunikation with second main subject Principles of Computer
Science will be able to find employment in a diversity of professional areas. The main focus
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