Who is the distance learning course in Software Engineering (B.Eng.) suitable for?
The Bachelor's distance learning course in Software Engineering is aimed at everyone who wants to specifically prepare for a career in software development and the management of complex software projects. The degree programme appeals to you if you have a technical interest, an affinity for mathematics and logical thinking, and want not only to programme software but also to design, implement and further develop it holistically. The course is suitable both for career starters with (advanced) school leaving certificates and for experienced professionals with appropriate advanced training or vocational training who want to expand their qualifications academically. If independent learning regardless of time and place is important to you, the distance learning programme at AKAD University offers a suitable model.
What admission requirements do you need to meet?
Access to the Bachelor in Software Engineering is possible via various routes:
- With university entrance qualification:
- general university entrance qualification (Abitur),
- subject-specific university entrance qualification,
- advanced technical college entrance qualification or
- a recognised equivalent university entrance qualification from abroad.
- With vocational advanced training:
- e.g. as a state-certified technician, master craftsman, business administrator, specialist, or educator with a recognised technical college diploma.
- With vocational training and work experience:
- recognised vocational training of at least two years and subsequent work experience of at least three years; access is possible via a university aptitude test or a trial study period.
- German language skills for international applicants:
- Proof by DSH-2, TestDaF level 4, C1 (GER) or a comparable language test is required.
It is also recommended to have:
- mathematics skills at the level of the university entrance qualification,
- B2 English skills (e.g. ALTE 3 or comparable),
- solid PC application skills.
For successful studies, organisational talent, perseverance and the ability to learn independently are also helpful.
How does the Software Engineering distance learning course qualify you for IT practice?
In the Bachelor’s degree programme in Software Engineering (B.Eng.) at AKAD University, you acquire both broad fundamentals of computer science and applied technical skills for the development of modern software systems. The curriculum is specifically designed to prepare you methodically, technically, and organisationally for the implementation of complex software projects:
- Practical computer science and programming: You learn various programming languages (including Java, C/C++), programming paradigms, and the analysis of algorithms and data structures.
- Software development and architecture: Topics such as software engineering, software maintenance, design patterns, distributed systems, and microcomputer systems form a central pillar.
- Mathematical and technical fundamentals: Modules on mathematics, analysis, materials science, electrical engineering, physics, statics, strength of materials, electronics, and measurement technology provide the interdisciplinary basics for engineers.
- Business administration and management: You develop skills in project management (classical & agile), fundamentals of business administration as well as quality management – essential for managing software projects.
- Databases and web technologies: The course covers relational and non-standardised database systems, web engineering, and the development of web-based applications.
- Relevant specialised topics: Through elective modules, you can specialise in areas such as app development, embedded software, enterprise solutions, or robotics.
- Communication skills: A module “English for Computer Science” prepares you for international IT projects.
Through numerous practical projects as well as a major final project, you deepen your implementation of software solutions in teams and for real requirements. This is complemented by laboratory phases, including for control engineering and microcomputers.
How is the Bachelor’s degree programme in Software Engineering structured?
The course is designed for maximum flexibility for working professionals and career changers and can be completed entirely online:
- Start of studies: You can start at any time; there is no fixed semester enrolment.
- Duration and time models: Depending on your individual life situation, you choose between 36 (Sprint), 48 (Standard) or 72 months (Stretch) – with the possibility of free extensions.
- Learning organisation: You learn flexibly on the digital campus: All study materials, teaching videos, self-tests, and specialist articles are available at all times. The learning system supports you with personalised tasks and AI-based learning paths.
- Examinations: You can take exams flexibly online as open-book exams, assignments, or practice-oriented projects. Final examinations are offered either online or at examination centres. The bachelor thesis with colloquium completes the degree.
- Attendance phases: There is a mandatory attendance phase (1 day laboratory in Stuttgart), further lab and workshop offerings are voluntary.
- Support and interaction: Tutors, lecturers, and the student support team accompany you digitally and individually. Learning groups and forums are available on the campus for exchange with other students.
- Practical relevance and projects: From the fifth semester onwards, you work on extensive practical projects and specialise optionally in app development, web engineering, embedded software, enterprise solutions, or general software engineering.
Many examination achievements can be taken independently of time and place. The sequence of modules is largely flexible and you determine your own pace.
What career opportunities does the Bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering open up for you?
With the Bachelor of Engineering in Software Engineering, you qualify for a wide range of future-oriented roles in the IT and digital economy. Typical professional perspectives include:
- Software developers: You design, programme, and maintain software systems in various industries – from traditional companies to tech startups.
- App developer or web developer: Focus areas on mobile app development (Android/iOS) or complex web applications are possible.
- Software architects: Planning and implementation of software architectures, also in leadership roles in large projects.
- IT project management: Cross-disciplinary coordination and management of development projects, often with responsibility for team processes and budget.
- IT consulting and software advisory: Advising companies on the selection, introduction, and adaptation of software solutions – also as a freelance consultant.
- Industry and production: Development of embedded and real-time systems, robotics, automation, and mechatronic applications.
- Public service and academia: Deployment as an IT specialist in authorities, educational institutions, or research teams.
The degree is nationally and internationally recognised and also enables access to advanced master’s degree programmes, for example in computer science, IT management, data science, or artificial intelligence.
How are the tuition fees and financing options composed?
The monthly tuition fees vary depending on the chosen study model:
- Sprint model (36 months): €357 per month, total costs €12,852
- Standard model (48 months): €295 per month, total costs €14,160
- Stretch model (72 months): €203 per month, total costs €14,616
- Additionally, a one-time examination fee of €960 applies in each case. Current discount promotions may reduce costs.
- Included in the price: All digital learning materials, access to the online campus, support, examinations (except travel/accommodation costs for laboratory phases).
- Financing: Instalment payment is standard. Many students receive subsidies from their employer. Costs are tax-deductible as business expenses or special expenses.
- Funding options: Discount promotions are regularly available. A free four-week trial period enables a risk-free start.
- Free study time extension: Depending on the model, extensions of up to 12 months are possible at no additional cost.
Additional fees may only arise through optional services such as programme changes or recognition of external prior achievements. Costs for travel and accommodation in the case of mandatory attendance are not included.
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