Master in Software Engineering

Master in Software Engineering is one of 3 English-taught Software Engineering programmes at master’s level in the register, offered by 3 institutions. 3 of them list an annual fee for students from outside the EU, EEA and Switzerland; this programme lists EUR 1,453 a year. 3 are at a public university, where EU, EEA and Swiss students pay no tuition within the standard duration plus two semesters. The same programme title is offered at 2 institutions, so compare the content, campus and requirements before you choose.

What you study

This master's programme builds from the basics of software engineering. You learn the fundamentals you need to design, build and evaluate complex digital systems. The programme takes an integrated approach to modern software development, from requirements analysis through deployment and long-term operations, so you examine every stage of the lifecycle.

You can specialise through a selection of core and elective modules. The specialisation areas named on the programme page are: Algorithms and Complexity, Automation Systems and Mobile Robotics, Data Management and Intelligent Systems, Distributed and Next Generation Computing, High-Performance Computing, Machine Learning, Security and Privacy, Societal Impact and Critical Reflections, Software Engineering and Programming, and Verification and Automated Reasoning. Open electives and extension courses let you explore interdisciplinary areas and apply concepts from Engineering, Security and AI in broader contexts.

How the programme is organised

The programme runs over four semesters and carries 120 ECTS. The first, second and third semesters are dedicated to the foundations of Software Engineering and Programming, and Methods in Computer Science. You also choose from the core and elective modules that build on those foundations. The fourth semester focuses on developing and writing up your master's thesis. The thesis must be written and submitted in English. The degree awarded is Dipl.-Ing., equivalent to MSc.

Teaching is entirely in English. The official curriculum document is available in German only, for legal reasons, but the programme itself is taught in English. You are part of an international research community and work closely with faculty, researchers and fellow students. The programme also offers Erasmus exchange and double degree options during your master's.

Who it suits

This programme suits you if you want to develop and design complex software systems and care about how software affects people, organisations and society. It fits students who are fascinated by algorithms, high-performance computing or software security. You should be comfortable with an integrated view of the software lifecycle, from requirements to long-term operations. The programme combines theoretical depth with hands-on experience, so you should be ready to think critically about the societal impact and responsible design of software.

Admission, language and next steps

Applications go directly to TU Wien, not through a central portal. The admission process may take two months or longer, so apply in good time. The programme page points you to the TU Wien Admission to a Master Degree Program page for instructions and to the Admissions Office for questions about the formal process or language requirements. Admission requirements are listed in §4 of the curriculum. The curriculum document is only available in German for legal reasons.

For English, you need proficiency at level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). No German is required, since the programme is entirely in English. If an application form asks for your German skills, that is only because of other study programmes and does not affect your chances. The student council (FS Inf, FS Winf) offers advisory services. Once you are enrolled, the First Steps page has orientation information, dates and events for the start of your first semester. Open thesis topics are announced via TISS.

The master’s program in Software Engineering, opens an external URL in a new window offers a strong foundation in the design and development of complex software systems and combines theoretical depth with hands-on experience. Right from the beginning, you’ll be able to specialize in areas such as robotics, automation, or artificial intelligence. This master’s program provides you with the knowledge and skills to design and develop sustainable, reliable and secure digital infrastructures and launch a successful career in both academia and the private sector.

There is no central application portal in Austria: you apply to the institution, here TU Wien. A public university sets the admission requirements and dates for this level, so read them on the programme page. Entrance examination, as the register states it: No. Entry requirements and language tests are set by the institution, so start from the official programme page. Our guides cover tuition fees, the student residence permit and housing.