Who should study the Bachelor's in Software Development at IU?

With your degree in Software Development, you could work as a JavaScript Developer, Frontend Engineer, or Backend Developer.

The Bachelor's programme in Software Development at IU International University is aimed at anyone who wants to acquire and practically apply fundamental skills in programming and software engineering. It is particularly suitable for professionals interested in digitisation and automation of business processes, career changers from technical professions, as well as school leavers with an interest in IT, technology, and modern working methods. The distance learning programme is suitable for those who want to learn flexibly and independently, whether alongside their job, during parental leave, or while abroad. Individuals who value application development, agile working, and future-proof soft skills will find a suitable offering in this programme.

What are the admission requirements?

General higher education entrance qualification (Abitur), subject-specific higher education entrance qualification (including school and practical components) or restricted higher education entrance qualification allow direct enrollment in the Bachelor's programme.

It is also possible to study without a (subject-specific) higher education entrance qualification if you have one of the following qualifications:

• A master craftsman's certificate
• Another completed advanced training qualification (e.g. IHK specialist and certified specialist, state-certified business economist, and business economist)
• At least a two-year recognised vocational training in Germany followed by at least three years of relevant full-time work. Depending on the focus, a trial course of study or further aptitude test may be required initially.

International qualifications (e.g. IB Diploma) will be assessed for equivalence. Special regulations apply to complainants and students from the vocational college Baden-Württemberg and Waldorf schools, which the student advisory service will inform you about.

Language proficiency: Foreign applicants must demonstrate knowledge at least at level B2 for the German-language programme (e.g. TestDaF with at least 3 points, DSH1, Telc B2, ÖSD B2).

For the English-language variant, proof of English proficiency is required: TOEFL from 80, IELTS from 6, Duolingo from 105, Cambridge B or equivalent evidence. Alternatively, you can complete a free IU English course.

Personal requirements for the distance learning Software Development programme

• Technical interest and willingness to apply logical and structured thinking
• Self-motivation and self-organisation for self-study in a flexible online format
• Interest in digital technologies and openness to using innovative tools and methods (e.g. learning app, AI learning assistant Syntea)
• Basic knowledge of mathematics is helpful but not obligatory; particularly useful for elective modules in statistics, data science, or mathematics
• Teamwork skills for collaborative work in virtual projects and agile software development
• Willingness to learn new programming languages and topics (e.g. AI, cloud, DevOps)

The IU distance learning programme in Software Development offers you a modern, practical entry into the IT industry – even without a previous IT background. You can study flexibly, alongside your job or full-time, and benefit from individual study support. The wide range of elective modules allows you to set your own priorities and actively pursue career opportunities in areas such as DevOps, web development, database design, or cloud architectures.

What do you learn in the Bachelor's programme in Software Development (B.Sc.) at IU?

The distance learning programme Software Development (Bachelor of Science) at IU International University provides you with the professional and methodological foundations for contemporary software technology. You will intensively engage with:

• Foundations of Software Development - such as industrial software engineering, object-oriented programming with Java and Python, web programming, data modeling, and database systems.
• Agile Software Development - You will learn modern methods like Scrum, Kanban, and DevOps, which are now standard in the IT industry, including quality assurance and techniques like Continuous Delivery.
• Data and Algorithms - This includes courses on algorithms, data structures, and programming with Python and Java, which are industry standards.
• Cloud, IT Infrastructure, and IT Security - You will gain insight into Cloud Programming, data protection & IT security, IT service management, and Cloud Computing.
• Focus on Practice - Projects on mobile development (Android), cloud solutions, agile software engineering, UI/UX design, and collaborative work are an integral part of the programme.
• Ethics, Sustainability, and Academic Work - Subjects on IT ethics and societal aspects will help you to responsibly position yourself as a developer.

Elective modules allow you to specialize in specific areas, such as Business Intelligence, Data Science, Internet of Things, AI, Machine Learning, User Experience, or VR/AR. Additionally, you have the option to complete a 30 ECTS internship directly during your distance learning programme or choose additional practice-oriented modules.

How does the distance learning programme in Software Development at IU work?

The programme is 100% online and flexible - you can start at any time and choose between three different study modes (Full-time: 36 months, part-time variants with 48 or 72 months standard study time). You determine when and where you study, and which modules you work on when. All your learning materials - scripts, videos, IU Interactive Books, podcasts - are available to you digitally, and usually also as printed study materials.

• Live online seminars, tutorials, and exchanges provide you with support and interaction with lecturers and fellow students - there are no mandatory in-person phases.
• You can take exams online (24/7), optionally also at an examination centre nationwide or abroad.
• A Artificial-Intelligence-based learning assistant (Syntea) supports you around the clock with any study-related questions.
• With individual projects and practical modules, such as Mobile Engineering, Cloud, or agile managed software projects, you directly apply your knowledge in practical ways during your studies.

You can adjust your study progress and specializations individually. By integrating an internship or having external credits recognized, the programme becomes particularly individualized and practice-oriented.

Career Prospects after Studying

As a graduate of the distance learning programme in Software Development at IU, numerous career paths are available to you. With your degree, you are qualified for roles such as:

• Software Developer: Developing and implementing applications and system solutions in various industries.
• DevOps Engineer: Connecting development and operation, automating development processes, Continuous Integration, and Delivery.
• Database Architect: Planning, modeling, and managing complex database systems.
• Frontend or Backend Development: Focus on user interfaces or server-side application development.
• IT Consulting: Consulting on software architecture, technology selection, agile processes, or cloud solutions.

Through elective modules, you can specialize in AI/Data Science, Cloud, IT Security, Internet of Things, VR/AR, and automation. The broad methodological and technical education qualifies you interdisciplinary, for example, at software companies, in industrial environments (Industry 4.0), at service providers, in the public sector, or in research.

Costs and Financing Options

The distance learning programme in Software Development at IU costs - depending on the chosen study mode:

• Full-time (36 months): from 399 € per month
• Part-time I (48 months): from 344 € per month
• Part-time II (72 months): from 259 € per month
• Graduation fee: approximately 699 € at the end of the programme

The costs include all teaching materials as well as access to the IU learning platform, online library, support, and examinations.

• An unbinding trial month is possible, during which you can test the programme.
• Discounts and bonuses (e.g. iPad, completion bonus) can further reduce the costs.
• Prior credits, such as from previous education or studies, are recognized upon request and reduce the total costs.
• Financing is possible through BAföG (if requirements are met), student loans or education funds, as well as tax deductibility as further education costs.