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Data Science, Data Management and Artificial Intelligence are among the trending topics in the context of digitizing our everyday lives and the economy. Accordingly, specialists in Data Science are currently in high demand.
However, there are currently only a few universities offering part-time Bachelor's and Master's programs in the field of Data Science & AI. Here, I present the entire range of study programs available and compare them based on requirements, study content, specializations and tuition fees.
Furthermore, I discuss whether it is more sensible to study for a Bachelor's in Data Science or a Bachelor's in Computer Science.
Alle Studiengänge im Fachbereich Data Science & AI im Überblick
We have a total of 30 courses in the field of Data Science & AI.
Applied Artificial Intelligence
- IU International University
- 2 Semester
- English
The Master's programme in Applied Artificial Intelligence (M.Sc.) at IU International University is aimed at graduates of technical, mathematical, or natural science Bachelor's programmes with an interest in Artificial Intelligence. …
Data Science
- University of Hagen
- 4 Semester
- German
The master's programme Data Science at the FernUniversität Hagen is designed to train students in the areas of data analytics and big data. The focus is on data management, statistics, …
Data Science
- IU International University
- 2 Semester
- German or English
The Master's distance learning programme in Data Science (M.Sc.) at IU International University is designed for graduates of a first degree with a focus on Data Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, …
Big Data and Data Science
- Wilhelm Büchner University
- 6 Semester
- German
This course combines in-depth technical expertise with practical knowledge to prepare you for a career in one of the fastest growing areas of IT. Over 6 semesters, you will gain …
Data Science
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- English
The distance learning programme Data Science (B.Sc.) at IU International University is ideal for school leavers with an interest in mathematics, IT, and analytical thinking, as well as for professionals …
Data Science
- Albstadt-Sigmaringen University
- 6 Semester
- German
- Programming as well as mathematical and statistical fundamentals in the Big Data environment; Integration of global and company-internal data sources …
Data Science
- AKAD University
- 6 Semester
- German
The distance learning Bachelor Data Science (B.Sc.) at AKAD University provides practical knowledge in the areas of mathematics, statistics, and computer science. The degree programme focuses on the capture and …
Applied Artificial Intelligence
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German or English
The Bachelor's distance learning programme in Applied Artificial Intelligence at IU International University is aimed at technology enthusiasts who want to apply AI methods practically in fields such as IT, …
Applied Artificial Intelligence
- Institute for Collaborative Studies
- 6 Semester
- German
- Foundations of Artificial Intelligence, Programming for AI, System Software, Machine Learning, Data Analysis and Visualization, Database Programming, …
AI and Machine Learning
- Wilhelm Büchner University
- 6 Semester
- German
Immerse yourself in the world of artificial intelligence and machine learning with the Bachelor's programme in AI and Machine Learning at Wilhelm Büchner University. This groundbreaking distance learning course provides …
Artificial Intelligence
- AKAD University
- 4 Semester
- German
The Master's programme Artificial Intelligence (M.Sc.) at AKAD University offers professionals in computer science the opportunity to prepare for future innovations in the fields of Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Neural …
Master of Management in Artificial Intelligence
- Fresenius University of Applied Sciences
- 2 Semester
- German
The Master of Management in Artificial Intelligence (MMAI) is aimed at graduates with a first university degree in business or technical fields, as well as professionals with relevant practical experience. …
Data Science
- AKAD University
- 4 Semester
- German
The Master's programme in Data Science at AKAD University prepares you optimally for the challenges of data analysis. You deepen your knowledge in Big Data, Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence …
Business Intelligence
- IU International University
- 2 Semester
- English
This English-language master's programme provides you with knowledge in data management, BI processes, and corporate strategies. Throughout the course of study, you will acquire a wealth of in-depth specialized knowledge …
DevOps and Cloud Computing
- IU International University
- 4 Semester
- English
The part-time Master's programme in DevOps and Cloud Computing (M.Sc.) at IU International University is designed for graduates of computer science or business informatics programmes. The programme aims to provide …
Data Management
- IU International University
- 2 Semester
- English
This English-language master's degree is particularly suitable for graduates with a bachelor's degree in (Business) Informatics, Data Science, Digital Business, or Data Management. The programme systematically conveys to you practical …
Business Intelligence
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- German
The Bachelor's degree programme in Business Intelligence (B.Sc.) at IU International University offers a 100% online study programme for technically and analytically interested career starters and experienced professionals. Contents include …
Machine Learning
- IU International University
- 4 Semester
- English
The Master Machine Learning at IU International University offers you the opportunity to advance your career in the field of Artificial Intelligence. Study flexibly and location-independently with state-of-the-art learning methods. …
Artificial Intelligence & Sustainable Technologies
- Tomorrow University of Applied Sciences
- 6 Semester
- German or English
- Learning Insights, Mission Identification, Build Your Dream Team, Introduction to Coding, Technology Revolutions, Sustainability Foundations, Introduc…
AI & Business Analytics
- FOM University of Applied Sciences for Economics and Management
- 4 Semester
- German
- Intelligent Systems, Fundamentals of Machine Learning, Change & Innovation, Research Methodology in STEM Courses, Application Areas Business Analytics…
Business Intelligence & IT integration
- European Distance Learning University Hamburg
- 4 Semester
- German
The part-time Master's programme in Business Intelligence & IT Integration (M.Sc.) at the European Distance University Hamburg is designed to impart sound knowledge and skills in the field of IT …
AI in Business
- IU International University
- 6 Semester
- English
The distance learning Bachelor AI in Business (B.Sc.) programme at IU International University combines business fundamentals with current expertise in Artificial Intelligence. The target group consists of individuals interested in …
Artificial Intelligence and Societies
- Media University
- 4 Semester
- English
- History and Fundamentals of AI Technologies, Ethics and Society, AI and the Cultural Economy, AI Technology and Society, AI and Applied Computer Scien…
Applied Business Data Science
- ISM International School of Management
- 6 Semester
- German
- Applied Statistics & Data Literacy, Quantitative Methods in Information Systems, Trends in Data Science, Leadership, Innovation & Strategic Management…
Applied Artificial Intelligence
- FOM University of Applied Sciences for Economics and Management
- 7 Semester
- German
- Mathematical Foundations of Computer Science, Programming Concepts, AI Basics, AI Tools, Time and Self-Management, Quantitative Methods in Computer Sc…
Data Engineering Technologies
- Constructor University
- 4 Semester
- English
- Data acquisition, Data storage, Statistical model building, Data visualization, Data security, Societal implications of digitization
AI in Management
- AKAD University
- 6 Semester
- German
The bachelor's program "AI in Management (B.A.)" at AKAD University is aimed at those who want to combine business knowledge with current AI expertise. In the 100% online distance learning …
Applied AI
- German University Of Digital Science
- 4 Semester
- English
- symbolic AI, subsymbolic AI (neural networks), probabilistic AI, language models, intelligent control, coding of complex applications, big data system…
Business Engineering Artificial Intelligence
- Wilhelm Büchner University
- 6 Semester
- German
The Bachelor's degree in Business Engineering Artificial Intelligence at Wilhelm Büchner University combines technical and economic aspects and prepares students to master the challenges of digitalization. In a modular structure, …
Data Science for Society and Business
- Constructor University
- 4 Semester
- English
- Mathematical and statistical foundations for data science, Supervised and unsupervised learning techniques, Data analysis and dimension reduction tech…
Distance Learning Universities & Universities of Applied Sciences: Which Is the Best University?
There is now a variety of private and public universities offering degree programs in the field of Data Science & Artificial Intelligence. Bachelor’s programs are exclusively offered at private universities, while the public universities provide Master's distance learning courses.
It is not possible to uniformly determine which university is the best. Factors such as costs, study content and specialization opportunities should be considered in your decision. The location of the university is relatively unimportant, as in distance learning, you can study from home at most universities. However, in some study programs, there are also mandatory attendance phases, for example at Wilhelm Büchner Hochschule.
Here is a brief overview of the universities:
Fresenius University: Fresenius University is a private, state-recognized University of Applied Sciences based in Idstein/Hessen, with numerous branches throughout Germany. The university's history dates back to 1848. In the winter semester 2020/2021, a total of 14,910 students were enrolled at the university. The university offers its distance learning programs through its own established department, the department of onlineplus. Through this department, one can also enroll in the Master of Management in AI program.
AKAD University: AKAD University in Stuttgart is a private, state-recognized University of Applied Sciences founded in 1959. In the winter semester 2020/2021, a total of 5,532 students were enrolled in distance learning programs at the university. AKAD University primarily offers degree programs in the fields of computer science and engineering sciences, as well as in business-related fields. In addition to various programs in the IT sector, the university also offers Bachelor's and Master's programs in Data Management and Data Science.
IU International University: IU is a private, state-recognized University of Applied Sciences based in Erfurt, founded in 1998. In the winter semester 2022/2023, over 100,000 students were enrolled at the university, mostly in distance learning programs – making it the largest university in Germany. IU offers degree programs in all subject areas and has an extensive program in the field of information sciences. A notable feature of IU, in my opinion, is the significant flexibility that allows working professionals to pursue their education.
Albstadt-Sigmaringen University: Albstadt-Sigmaringen University of Applied Sciences for Technology, Business, Computer Science, and Life Sciences in Albstadt and Sigmaringen (Baden-Württemberg). The school was founded in 1971, and in the winter semester 2019/2020, a total of 3,428 students were enrolled at the university. A special feature: being a public university, it is expected to provide intensive support due to its size.
Wilhelm Büchner University: WBH is a private University of Applied Sciences based in Darmstadt, founded in 1997. In the winter semester 2019/2020, a total of 6,188 students were enrolled at the university. The university specializes in distance learning programs in the fields of computer science and technology. In addition to a Bachelor's program in Data Science, one can, for example, study Practical Computer Science with a specialization in Data Science at WBH.
Institute for Collaborative Studies: The Institute for Collaborative Studies is a network of 13 public universities of applied sciences in North Rhine-Westphalia, organizing a range of distance learning programs from these universities of applied sciences. By enrolling in a distance learning program through the cooperative study program, you will matriculate at one of the participating universities in NRW. Bachelor's and Master's programs are offered, especially in technical fields, but also in business law or social work. The Master's program in Applied Artificial Intelligence is offered in the cooperative study program by the FH Südwestfalen.
University of Mannheim: The University of Mannheim is a public university based in Mannheim, Baden-Württemberg. The university was founded in 1907, and in the winter semester 2020/2021, a total of 11,303 students were enrolled at the university. Through the Mannheim Business School, the university also offers a part-time Master's program in Applied Data Science & Measurement.
University of Hagen: The "FernUniversität in Hagen" is the only public distance university and at the same time the largest public university in Germany. In the winter semester 2021/2022, a total of 67,689 students were enrolled at FernUni. In addition to Bachelor's and Master's programs in Computer Science and Business Informatics, FernUni also offers a Master's program in Data Science.
Master in Data Science: Programs & Requirements
Unfortunately, there are currently only a handful of Master's programs in Data Science offered as distance learning programs. 2 programs are offered by public universities, namely the Albstadt-Sigmaringen University and the University of Munich – however, the costs are equally high as at private universities.
Additional Master's programs are offered by private universities. Notably, the Master's program at IU International University can be completed in just 2 semesters of full-time study.
Here is an overview of the requirements for Master's programs in Data Science:
| Program | University | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Data Science, Master of Science (M.Sc.) | Albstadt-Sigmaringen University |
|
| Data Science, Master of Science (M.Sc.) | IU International University |
|
| Data Management, Master of Science (M.Sc.) | IU International University |
|
| Data Science, Master of Science (M.Sc.) | AKAD University |
|
| Mannheim Master of Applied Data Science & Measurement, Master of Science (M.Sc.) | University of Mannheim |
|
| Data Science, Master of Science (M.Sc.) | FernUni Hagen |
|
Data Science at IU International University
IU International University (formerly IUBH) offers 2 distance learning programs in Data Science: the B.Sc. Data Science and the M.Sc. Data Science. Additionally, the university offers a B.Sc. Applied Artificial Intelligence. Here, I will briefly introduce the Bachelor's program in Data Science.
The program lasts 6 semesters in full-time study but can be extended to 8–12 semesters in part-time. Importantly, the program is taught in English, with all modules completed in English.
Required is the completion of the Abitur (general university entrance qualification) or Fachabitur (subject-specific university entrance qualification). For those with a subject-specific university entrance qualification, enrollment in the IU trial study program may be offered depending on your subject focus. Access without the Abitur is possible for those who can demonstrate vocational training + work experience or completion of an advanced training program.
The following modules are completed in the full-time study:
- 1st Semester: Introduction to Data Science, Introduction to Academic Work, Introduction to Programming with Python, Mathematics: Analysis, Collaborative Work, Statistics - Probability and Descriptive Statistics
- 2nd Semester: Object-Oriented and Functional Programming with Python, Mathematics: Linear Algebra, Intercultural and Ethical Decision-Making, Statistics - Inferential Statistics, Database Modeling and Database Systems, Project: Build a Data Mart in SQL
- 3rd Semester: Business Intelligence, Project: Business Intelligence, Machine Learning - Supervised Learning, Machine Learning - Unsupervised Learning and Feature Engineering, Data Science Software Engineering, Project: From Model to Production
- 4th Semester: Agile Project Management, Big Data Technologies, Data Quality and Data Wrangling, Explorative Data Analysis and Visualization, Cloud Computing, Seminar: Ethical Considerations in Data Science
- 5th Semester: Time Series Analysis, Neural Nets and Deep Learning, Electives A, Electives B
- 6th Semester: Electives C, Introduction to Data Protection and IT Security, Model Engineering, Bachelor Thesis
Over the course of the program, students specialize in one of the themes Data Engineer, Data Analyst, AI Specialist. Additional elective modules include Autonomous Driving, Automation and Robotics, Smart Factory, Foreign Languages, Applied Sales, International Marketing and Branding, Supply Chain Management, Financial Service Management.
Data Science vs. Computer Science: Which Is Better?
Which study program is more suitable as an IT program for those interested in Data Science or Artificial Intelligence: a degree in Data Science or a traditional Computer Science program?
In my opinion, for most beginner students looking to pursue a Bachelor's degree, a more general program is more suitable. Especially in the Bachelor's phase, fundamental knowledge is developed in the field – building on these basics, students can then specialize in specific topics during their Bachelor's studies. In the Master's phase, students can delve even deeper into these specializations.
Of course, there are exceptions: A Bachelor's in Data Science instead of Computer Science or Business Informatics is particularly suitable if, for example, you have completed vocational training in the IT sector or if you already have a lot of work experience in the IT field.
Therefore, my recommendation: carefully consider whether a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science with specialization options in Data Science might make more sense than a B.Sc. in Data Science.
Here is an overview of various Computer Science distance learning programs:
| Course | University | Duration | Course contents | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science, Bachelor of Science Distance learning program | IU International University | 6 Semester | Introduction to Computer Science, Introduction to Scientific Work for IT and Technology, Fundamentals of Object-Oriented Programming with Java, Requir… | from 15063 € total from 259 € monthly |
| Computer science, Bachelor of Science Distance learning program | AKAD University | 6 Semester | Foundations of Business Administration, Introduction to Computer Science, Basics of Programming and Digital Technology, Fundamentals of Mathematics an… | from 13284 € total from 219 € monthly |
| Computer Science, Bachelor of Science Distance learning program | University of Hagen | 6 Semester | Mathematical foundations, Introduction to imperative programming, Computer systems, Introduction to the scientific methodology of computer science, Al… | from 1954 € total from 197 € Semester fee |
| Computer science, Bachelor of Science Distance learning program | Wilhelm Büchner University | 6 Semester | Among others, mathematics for computer scientists, computer architecture, information technology, theoretical foundations of computer science, operati… | from 12201 € total from 237 € monthly |
| Software Development, Bachelor of Science Distance learning program | IU International University | 6 Semester | Foundations of Software Engineering, Introduction to Scientific Work for IT and Engineering, Requirements Engineering, Introduction to Programming wit… | from 15063 € total from 259 € monthly |
| Software Engineering, Bachelor of Engineering Distance learning program | AKAD University | 6 Semester | Basic Mathematics for Engineers, Materials Science, Fundamentals of Computer Science, Programming and Digital Technology, Analysis and Applications of… | from 13284 € total from 219 € monthly |
About the Author Christian Wolf
Hi, I'm Christian, the founder of fernstudi.net & your personal, independent study advisor 👋 Do you have questions about a course of study or are unsure which course is right for you? I'm happy to help - in detail, competently, honestly, and individually.
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