Joint Master's Study Program : Computer Science — Software & Data Engineering
Study at Charles University (Faculty of Mathematics and Physics) and the University of Passau (Faculty of Computer Science and Mathematics) and graduate with a prestigious double degree.
University of Passau
One year in Prague, one year in Passau. Gain complementary expertise in software engineering, web & data technologies, and large‑scale data processing in an English‑taught programme designed for international careers and PhD paths.
Motivation & Overview
Foto: Tomáš Rubín
The Joint Master’s Double‑Degree Study Program in Computer Science – Software & Data Engineering lets you benefit from the strengths of Charles University and the University of Passau. The alternating study pattern ensures diverse academic experience, access to complementary expertise, and an internationally recognised double degree.
Master of Science in Computer Science — University of Passau
Magistr (Mgr.) in Computer Science – Software and Data Engineering — Charles University
The programme focuses on software engineering, web & data technologies, and large‑scale data processing. You will learn to design and implement reliable, scalable, and intelligent software systems while gaining hands‑on experience in both academic and applied research contexts. The programme is primarily taught in English to strengthen your communication skills for the international job market and to prepare you for careers in multinational companies or further PhD studies abroad.
About the University of Passau & Programme Goals
University of Passau
About the University of Passau
The University of Passau, located in Bavaria at the confluence of three rivers – the Danube, the Inn, and the Ilz, is a modern German university with a strong international orientation. Founded in 1978, it has grown into one of Germany’s most respected smaller universities, combining academic excellence with vibrant student life. Charles University and the University of Passau have cooperated since the 1980s and reaffirmed their partnership in February 2025 by the agreement on the joint study programme.
University of Passau
Programme goals
Provide in‑depth theoretical foundations in algorithms, software architectures, and data systems.
Develop practical competencies in software development, distributed/cloud solutions, and Big Data analytics.
Foster international and intercultural experience by studying at two partner institutions.
Prepare graduates for careers in R&D, data engineering, or for further PhD studies.
Excellence in Programming Methods & Software Systems, Information & Communication Systems, security, and data science on a compact, international campus by the Danube.
Expertise highlights (Passau)
Software Systems Engineering — analysis, compilers, programming languages, architecture, verification
Information & Communication Systems — databases, multimedia, distributed systems, privacy, AI engineering
Security & Dependability
AI & Data Science — deep learning, computational linguistics, IoT, scaling databases
How to apply
Eligibility & timing
Start in the Standard study plan at Charles University (Year 1). During Year 1, you may apply to transfer to the Joint ouble‑degree study plan.
Application package
Motivation letter
Curriculum vitae
Transcripts from Bachelor’s and Master’s studies
Proof of English proficiency at minimum B2
Selection: joint committee (both partners) evaluates applications and invites selected candidates to an interview. Up to five students per year (unless partners agree otherwise).
Fees
Tuition fees are paid only if you are originally enrolled in a fee‑based programme. Other students are exempt. A standard registration fee may apply.
Study plan & ECTS requirements
University of Passau
Passau module groups
Courses are organised into module groups; the joint programme relates to two of them:
At least 30 ECTS from each partner (excluding thesis)
Project, Diploma Thesis & Final Examination
Foto: Tomáš Rubín
The rules are adjusted to ensure that students satisfy the academic requirements of both partner universities and to take into account their expected place of study.
Project
You may choose the one‑semester International Research Project (or any existing equivalent project type).
Diploma thesis
Select your thesis topic (preferably at the host university). The thesis is written in English and is carried out under the joint supervision of a supervisor and a consultant from both partner universities.
State final examination
Held before a committee proposed jointly by the partners and approved under the regulations of both universities. The examination consists of a thesis defence followed by an oral examination; both parts must be passed, and the oral part takes place immediately after a successful defence. The oral exam is an expert discussion on topics closely related to the thesis.
Practical information — studies
Registration process
Follow the registration procedures of the university where you study in the given year. After nomination to Passau, you will receive instructions on how to complete host‑university registration and semester formalities.
Student ID card
You will receive/activate a student ID at each university. The ID provides access to facilities and services (libraries, refectory payment, printers, etc.).
Stud.IP access
At Passau, modules and materials are managed via Stud.IP.
Course enrolment and schedules follow the rules of the university you attend in the given year. Use the course mapping document above for guidance when choosing modules across partners.
Practical information — financial support
Erasmus+ funding & priority
Double‑degree students are eligible for Erasmus+ mobility funding under the CU↔Passau agreement and receive priority in the selection process.
Requirements depend on nationality. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens do not need a visa or residence permit to study or live in Germany (a valid passport or national ID card is sufficient). Non‑EU students may need to apply for a student visa before entering Germany and later register for a residence permit.
Students can dine in the university refectory (Mensa) and several cafeterias across campus with affordable meals, snacks, and drinks; menus and opening hours are available via the refectory website.
University of Passau
Foto: Tomáš Rubín
University of Passau
University of Passau
Foto: Viktor Mácha
University of Passau
Foto: Tomáš Rubín
University of Passau
