Master degree programme: Medical Information Sciences
The Master's programme in Medical Information Sciences offers advanced and specialised training that combines cutting-edge areas of computer science with complex medical applications. In addition to deepening your knowledge in core computer science subjects, you will have the opportunity to further develop your expertise in medical information sciences and prepare for specialised challenges in this interdisciplinary field.
At a glance
The interdisciplinary Master's programme in Medical Information Sciences offers advanced training that combines in-depth knowledge of computer science with specialised skills from the fields of medicine, biology, and healthcare.
Students have the opportunity to further develop their knowledge through a wide selection of specialised courses and apply it in various advanced areas of medical information sciences, such as (bio)medical data analysis, medical image processing, or software development and information processing in healthcare.
Highlights
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Small group sizes in lectures and practical sessions ensure excellent and personalised support.
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Unique combination of medical expertise and computer science knowledge.
- Personalised focus through flexible course selection.
- Practical insights into medical informatics research.
- Renowned computer science faculty in the CHE ranking.
- Active student community with regular events and activities.
Before the Study
Examination Modules
The Master's programme in Medical Information Sciences consists of a total of 120 credits and, according to the current examination regulations for 2021, comprises the following assessment areas:
- Medicine (at least 15 credits)
- Medical Informatics (at least 15 credits)
- Computer Science (at least 15 credits)
- Elective Area (at least 25 credits)
- Practical Experience (20 credits, specifically two internships)
- Master's Thesis (30 credits)
Medicine and Medical Informatics
The courses in this area provide in-depth knowledge essential for the successful study of Medical Information Sciences.
With a broad range of elective modules, students have the opportunity to specialise and set individual priorities: ranging from simulating biological processes to medical signal processing. This allows for a tailored education aligned with personal interests and career goals.
Computer Science
The Master's programme offers a solid foundation in advanced computer science topics, tailored to the needs of healthcare and medical research. Students explore areas such as algorithm design, data management, and software development, focusing on their application in medical environments.
Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, the programme equips graduates with the skills to develop innovative IT solutions for complex challenges in the medical and healthcare sectors.
Application and Practice
The Master's programme offers a diverse selection of elective courses. Topics range from simulating biological processes and medical signal analysis to tackling challenges in Big Data and Machine Learning. Students have numerous opportunities to deepen their knowledge and refine their skills, all while applying them to real-world problems through:
- Two hands-on, practice-oriented internships
- A comprehensive Master’s thesis
The Master's programmes are structured for a standard duration of 4 semesters. The sample study plan provides a recommended approach for completing the programme within this timeframe. Deviations may occur depending on individual study trajectories. Enrolment is available in both the winter and summer semesters.
1. Semester
Total: 30 CP
2. Semester
Total: 30 CP
3. Semester
Total: 30 CP
4. Semester
Total: 30 CP
Introduction for First-Year Students in Computer Science
We offer in-person welcome sessions for Computer Science in both the Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes. Access to the welcome session is through our teaching platform, Digicampus. To register there, you will need your IT account details ("RZ-Kennung"), which you will receive after enrolment.
During the Study
To make the beginning of your studies as easy as possible, all the necessary information is compiled here in one place.
On this page you will find important information regarding the start of your studies.
Course Catalogue
All the courses offered in the current semester, including lecturers, rooms, and times, can be found in Digicampus. These are also compiled here in accordance with your degree programme and examination regulations.
At the turn of the semester, the courses for the following semester are usually available around four weeks before the start of term.
Timetables
For the compulsory and core courses of the degree programme, the faculty prepares a timetable, which also includes some elective courses. Please note that there is no distinction made between different examination regulations.
Exam Schedule
The faculty maintains a central exam schedule, where lecturers register the exams. You will also find links to the exam schedules of other faculties, such as for minor subjects or interdisciplinary degree programmes.
Exam dates for the Institute of Computer Science are listed here.
For most examination-related issues, the →
Medical Examinations Office is your primary point of contact, including:
- Problems with exam registration in "Studis"
- Registration of final theses
- Issuance of certificates and transcripts
→
FAQs from the Examinations Office
For more complex issues, the →
Examination Board is responsible. Applications are also submitted through the Examinations Office. Common topics include:
- Deadline extensions (e.g., for "Orientierungsprüfung", overall study time, final theses)
- Compensation for disadvantages
- Recognition of prior study and examination achievements
Examination Regulations
The examination regulations establish the guidelines for the degree programme, such as:
- Scope and content of module groups
- Mandatory and optional courses within the module groups
- Scope of examinations
- Deadlines, such as for orientation exams or the maximum duration of study
- Types and progression of examinations
Examination regulations are divided by area of application and build on each other. Over time, the examination regulations are modified to develop the degree programme further. The version that applies to you is the one in force at the time of your enrolment in its consolidated form. You can check this information in the "Studis" system.
→ Subject-specific Examination Regulations MSc Medical Information Sciences (all valid regulations)
→
Faculty Examination Regulations of the Faculty of Informatics
→
General Examination Regulations of the University of Augsburg
Module Handbook
The module handbook lists a catalogue of potential courses and provides details on these courses. The specific courses you are required or allowed to take are determined by the examination regulations. Not every course is offered every semester; please refer to the timetable and Digicampus for more information.
The information provided includes, among other things:
- The person responsible for the module
- Course content
- Learning objectives
- Examination format
- Allocation to the module group (see examination regulations)
- Contact hours/Workload
- Recommended semester
The module handbook changes slightly from semester to semester and depends on the degree programme and examination regulations. The information in the module handbook can also be found on Digicampus.
The University of Augsburg and the Faculty of Applied Computer Science offer numerous support services:
Central Student Advisory Service
The Central Student Advisory Service provides a broad range of support on non-subject-specific topics such as learning advice, self- and time management, psychological and systemic counselling, studying with disabilities, studying with a family, social and legal advice ("Studentenwerk"), career entry and orientation (Career Service), studying abroad and support for international students (International Office).
→
Student Advise and Counselling Service
Dean of Studies
The Dean of Studies at the FAI offers advice on teaching, examinations, support services, and teaching evaluations. However, the Dean of Studies is not responsible for individual study counselling or planning.
Examination Board
For more complex queries related to exams, recognitions, and applications, it may be helpful to consult directly with the chair of the Examination Board.
Subject-Specific Counselling and Other Contacts
The subject-specific advisors for each degree programme provide individual feedback on study-related questions such as course progression, choosing minor subjects/specialisations/internships, and preparing applications.
After the Study
Once all academic requirements have been completed, you must apply for your degree certificate. You can find details on this process on the → Examinations Office website.
Here you will find information on doctoral studies at the Institute of Computer Science at the University of Augsburg.
A degree in medical informatics opens up a wide range of career opportunities:
General Career Outlook
Digitisation is impacting all areas of daily life, especially in the field of medicine. Graduates of medical informatics programmes have excellent career prospects, as outlined in the following fields of work. In addition to a specialised career, graduates also have opportunities for management positions, such as project management or leading interdisciplinary teams in the healthcare sector. Tasks may involve planning, coordinating, and implementing IT projects in healthcare settings. Potential employers include hospitals, healthcare companies, and consultancy firms.
Medical Research
In medical research, medical informatics supports tasks such as simulating biological processes and visualising medical data. The increasing challenge of handling large amounts of data, as seen in genomics research and neuroscience, can only be efficiently addressed through the targeted use of modern IT technologies. Key responsibilities may include data analysis, where specialists focus on collecting, analysing, and interpreting medical data to support knowledge gain and decision-making processes. Potential employers in this field include hospitals, research institutes, and healthcare companies.
Medical Technology
The development of software-intensive medical systems requires a solid understanding of both medicine and computer science methods. Fields of work include areas such as Mobile Health or eHealth, as well as the development of modern medical products. Specialists in health technology are responsible for the implementation, optimisation, and maintenance of medical software. Typical employers include hospitals, medical facilities, and healthcare companies.
Healthcare Sector
The modern healthcare sector increasingly relies on IT systems for the collection and analysis of patient data in both clinical settings and billing processes. Possible fields of work involve the planning, development, and operation of these systems. Specialists may be employed in project management, where tasks include overseeing IT projects, coordinating teams, and ensuring the successful implementation of new systems. Potential employers include insurance companies, hospitals, and healthcare authorities.
Computer Science
Thanks to their comprehensive education in general computer science, graduates also have career opportunities in traditional computer science fields. This includes software development, where tasks range from the creation of new applications to the optimisation of existing systems. These roles may also intersect with the healthcare industry, particularly in the development of innovative medical technologies and systems.
Do you want to stay in touch with your fellow students and meet them again at a variety of network events? Then join the → University of Augsburg's alumni network.
Qualification Objectives
The Master’s degree programme in Medical Information Sciences provides students with a comprehensive education, preparing them for a wide range of career opportunities. The qualification objectives include:
Students acquire both an in-depth understanding of the theoretical foundations in medicine and mathematics, as well as advanced knowledge relevant to computer science. They also gain practical experience in the development and application of computational methods in biomedical research, medical care, and health-related applications.
Students learn to develop, refine, and apply advanced and innovative concepts, methods, techniques, and technologies in medical informatics to identify and solve complex information processing problems in (bio)medical and health-related fields.
Graduates are well-prepared for demanding professional roles in companies, public institutions, as well as in academic and non-academic research. They can work in a variety of sectors, particularly in healthcare, and both academic and non-academic research settings.
FAQs & Contact Persons
Still have questions? Here you will find answers to frequently asked questions and the contact details for academic advising, the dean of studies, and the student representative body—where you can get further assistance.
- Phone: (+49) 0821-598 - 3746
- Phone: +49 821 598 - 5916