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Specializations

Become a specialist

Data science isn’t just about numbers and algorithms — it’s about uncovering insights, making smarter decisions, and driving innovation across an astonishing variety of industries.

Imagine using data to revolutionize healthcare by predicting disease outbreaks or personalizing patient care through advanced analytics. In finance, data science powers fraud detection, investment strategies, and risk management. In entertainment, streaming services use data science to recommend shows you’ll love.

The applications of data science are limitless — from self-driving cars to language translation, from cybersecurity to weather prediction. As a data scientist, you won’t just crunch numbers — you’ll solve real-world problems.

No matter your interests, there’s a space for you in data science.?

We reflect the wide variety of application fields in research and teaching by offering you four specializations in your Master's program, which correspond 1:1 to the research focus areas of our faculty:

  • Machine Learning and Statistics
  • Computational Life Sciences
  • Human-Centred Data Science
  • Information Systems?

All specializations have a scope of 42 ECTS. They offer you the opportunity to research current topics and carry out projects to prepare for your Master's thesis. If you complete one of the specializations, this specialization can be highlighted on your degree certificate.


Machine Learning and Statistics

The specialization in Machine Learning and Statistics provides you with strong competencies in mathematical modeling, algorithm development, data analysis, and critical thinking.?Experts in these fields hold the key to the development of artificial intelligence. They?are in high demand across industries for their ability to develop predictive models, optimize processes, and derive meaningful insights from complex data.

You can complete the specialization in Machine Learning and Statistics

by passing the compulsory modules

  • DAT-M-MLS-SML Statistical Machine Learning, 9 ECTS
  • DAT-M-MLS-AS1 Advanced Statistics 1, 9 ECTS
  • DAT-M-MLS-RSRCH Research Project, 18 ECTS

and compulsory elective modules totalling?at least 6 ECTS from the following range of modules at your own choice:

  • DAT-M-MLS-AS2 Advanced Statistics 2, 6 ECTS

  • DAT-M-MLS-MATH Lectures in Mathematics, 3-18 ECTS

  • DAT-M-MLS-ENG Data Engineering, 6 ECTS

  • DAT-M-MLS-AXAI Advanced Explainable AI, 6 ECTS?

  • DAT-M-MLS-DIPAI Digital Image Processing – KI-based Approaches, 6 ECTS

  • FIDS-WI-IB-M05 Neuronale Networks: An Application-oriented Intorduction, 6 ECTS

  • DAT-M-MLS-AMLS Advanced Topics in Machine Learning and Statistics, 3-12 ECTS


Computational Life Sciences

Are you passionate about combining biology with technology? A specialization in Computational Life Sciences equips you with the essential skills to tackle the challenges of modern biology through data science and computational tools. During this program, you’ll gain expertise in bioinformatics, data analysis, machine learning, and biological modeling.?This specialization prepares you for exciting career opportunities in fields like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and environmental science. With roles such as data scientist, computational biologist, bioinformatician and positions in drug discovery and personalized medicine, you'll be at the forefront of innovative research and technology-driven solutions.

You can complete the specialization in Computational Life Sciences

by passing the compulsory modules

  • INF-M-BINF-BIOL Biology for Computer and Data Scientists, 6 ECTS?
  • DAT-M-CLS-STATBIO Statistical Bioinformatics, 6 ECTS
  • INF-M-BINF-RSRCH Research Project in Bioinformatics, 18 ECTS

and compulsory elective modules totalling?at least 12 ECTS from the following range of modules at your own choice:

  • INF-M-BINF-ALGBIO Algorithmic Bioinformatics, 6 ECTS
  • DAT-M-CLS-HIGHDIM Analysis of High-Dimensional Data, 6 ECTS?
  • INF-M-BINF-OPT Optimization, 6 ECTS
  • INF-M-BINF-SEM Current Topics in Bioinformatics, 6 ECTS?
  • INF-M-BINF-EXT Bioinformatics: International and External Studies, 3-12 ECTS.

Human-Centred Data Science

As a specialist in Human-centred Data Science you combine technical expertise with a deep understanding of human behavior, ethics, and social impact. Your competencies will include designing data-driven solutions that prioritize user experience, fairness, and accessibility; interpreting data with cultural and social awareness; and collaborating across disciplines to align technology with human needs.

Become a Human-Centred Data Science specialist by

completing the compulsory modules

  • HCAI-M02 AI Ethics, 6 ECTS?
  • HCAI-M08 Advanced Information Behaviour, 6 ECTS
  • HCAI-M09 Deep Reinforcement Learning for Human Decision Strategies, 6 ECTS

and compulsory elective modules totalling?at least 24 ECTS from the following range of modules at your own choice:

  • INF-M-HCC-INT1 Interaction Technologies I, 6 ECTS
  • INF-M-HCC-INT2 Interaction Technologies II, 6 ECTS
  • HCAI-M06 Explainable AI for Human-Computer-Interaction, 6 ECTS?
  • HCAI-M07 Generative AI for Human-Computer-Interaction, 6 ECTS
  • HCAI-M10 Group Project in Human-Centred AI, 6 ECTS
  • HCAI-M11 Computational Human-Centred AI, 6 ECTS?
  • HCAI-M13 Research Project in Human-Centred AI, 18?ECTS

Information Systems

Step into the forefront of digital innovation with our specialization in Information Systems! The specialization empowers you with the dual expertise to optimize business operations, to understand and manage the flow of data within organizations and to protect organizations from cyber threats.?Prepare for a future with high-impact roles such as IT Security Analyst, Cybersecurity Consultant, or Business Systems Manager at top organizations.?

Do you also want to become an expert in Information Systems?

Then?complete the compulsory modules

  • INF-M-IS-SEM Advanced Seminar Information Systems, 12 ECTS
  • DAT-M-MLS-AXAI Advanced Explainable AI, 6 ECTS

and compulsory elective modules totalling?at least 245 ECTS from the following range of modules at your own choice:

  • FIDS-WI-IB-M05 Neuronal?Networks: An Application-oriented Introduction, 6 ECTS
  • FIDS-WI-MSc-IB-M02 Social Network Analysis, 6 ECTS
  • FIDS-WI-MSc-IB-M04 Digital Platforms and the AI Economy, 6 ECTS
  • FIDS-WI-MSc-SEC-M02 Security of mobile systems?, 6 ECTS
  • FIDS-WI-MSc-SEC-M03 Multilateral Security: Anonymous Communication Systems,?6 ECTS?
  • FIDS-WI-MSc-SEC-M04 IT Security Practice, 6 ECTS?
  • FIDS-WI-MSc-BIS-M01 Business Engineering, 6 ECTS
  • FIDS-WI-MSs-BIS-M04 Process Mining, 6 ECTS?
  • WI-MSc-IB-M05 Intelligent Agents and Reinforcement Learning, 6? ECTS
  • FIDS-WI-MSc-M02 Security of data-intensive applications??, 6 ECTS
  • INF-M-IS-EXT Information Systems: International and External Studies, 3-12 ECTS?


Any Questions?

Student Advising Data Science

studienberatung.ds@ur.de


Student Advising for international applicants

international.degree-student@ur.de