Specialization within Master Progam Digital Sciences at TH Köln

Instruction Language : German and English.

(First intake planned for summer semester 2022)

This field of study aims at generating and making available knowledge gained from data and information. Graduates work in companies that depend heavily on the generation of business-relevant knowledge, e.g. from web data, e.g. digital information platforms, online retailers, social networks, online media, etc. Also a use in research or in the facilities of research infrastructures (e.g. scientific libraries, Leibniz institutes, etc.) is conceivable due to the high proportion of research-centered modules.

Information is the basis for decisions and processes in science, business and politics. Here, one speaks of the information needs that a person or an organization has. The lack of required information and the use of incorrect information can have serious consequences. Therefore, students learn methods and procedures of information analysis, information preparation, information retrieval, and information system design technologies with the goal of improving the availability of information and satisfying information needs.

Traditionally, information science has been concerned with how to organize information and make it usable. As a result of information technology development, information science has become a digitized, data-driven discipline. Algorithmic methods of analyzing mass data complement or completely replace traditional approaches. Techniques of text, data and web mining or knowledge discovery are representative for this development. In addition to the processes and technical methods, the human being is of particular interest here, since data, information and knowledge first develop their actual value through the application context and the integration into the human information behavior.

Graduate profiles and exemplary courses of study

Students are taught extensive information science knowledge (Core Information Science), which they combine with the tools of Data Science and Computer Science to enable them to work in a scientifically sound manner and to act responsibly in their professional activities, as well as to conduct independent research in the broader field of Data and Information Science.

Through the targeted acquisition of competencies, they are enabled to identify, formulate and solve technical problems using scientific methods. You will be able to apply knowledge and develop solutions to problems in the fields of Data and Information Science. In doing so, they demonstrate a high level of competence and are guided by ethical thinking and action.

Students in the DIS field of study are enabled to develop innovative contributions and solutions to priority future tasks and to help shape, drive and improve social innovations (including in the areas of digital economy, innovative working world, mobility, energy and environment). Students learn to process and analyze data, to order and prioritize information, to recognize patterns and to work out relevant connections and conclusions. They learn to organize and independently carry out scientific as well as economic projects, working both individually and as members of interdisciplinary project groups.

Last but not least, DIS students are enabled to take up a professional activity in a wide range of industries (employability), but equally to gain an aptitude for scientific specialization through a doctorate.

Digital Sciences