Computer science has many faces
As a young science, computer science is subject to constant change, turning to new challenges and at the same time exploring lasting foundations of its own. The school subject "computer science" is also in the process of development, has already established itself at some schools and types of schools and is shaped not least by the (future) teachers. Accordingly, the study programme for the teaching profession in Computer Science is also multifaceted.

Computer Science as a Technical Subject
With its roots in mathematics and influences from physics and electrical engineering, computer science offers a technical view of the world for students and teachers. This is evident in the technical components that are used in the classroom and are also tested during the course of study. The students do not simply stand around in amazement as users, but take a look "under the bonnet" and explore how computer science systems work. This becomes concrete instead of abstract in projects under the motto "Computer science helps!", for example, when Lego robots are used to programme automated walking aids not only for the teddy bear. The focus is on runnable and purpose-oriented products that are constructed by the learners themselves and used in a concrete context. Both the technical challenges are mastered using different solution paths and the sometimes challenging question of alternatives is weighed up.

Computer science as a creative subject
The inventive character of computer science prevails on many levels: creative solutions can be technically implemented in an analogous way, as the examples show. But digital products such as self-written or extended programmes also offer room for learners to develop their creative potential. Informatics requirements are not implemented alone, but often in teams - this is also the case in computer science lessons! Open tasks allow for different "correct" solutions, which the students work out together and thus complement each other. Accompanying these learning processes methodically is just as much a requirement for future computer science teachers as gaining one's own experience in dealing with various development environments. From the collection of ideas, to (repeated) implementation, to the successful presentation of their programming projects, the students have the chance to be creative. Instead of "just" using image editing software, they reconstruct and modify their own software for the next generation photo filter.

Computer science and society
It no longer seems to be a secret that informatics processes and systems shape our society. But how these interactions look in detail, what possibilities people have to influence them and what the digitalised world of tomorrow will look like, is something that computer science teachers can help to shape. Discussing opportunities and risks in the use of computer science systems requires a basic understanding of these systems, which computer science teaching promotes. However, helpful usage scenarios for the application of computer science concepts, strategies and methods are also outlined and tested.

Computer science has many faces - including yours?!
These three exemplary approaches are only the proverbial tip of the iceberg of computer science, which remains versatile, technical, creative and socially relevant. At the same time, it offers a lot of creative potential in studies and schools. Are you interested in studying to become a computer science teacher? Then apply now or contact the student advisory service with your individual questions. We look forward to hearing from you!

Students who wwish to become teachers have the option of studying computer science + "second subject". In this case, the teaching profession profile has to be chosen in the 2-subject Bachelor's degree. In this profile, subject didactics and educational science modules as well as key competencies are studied accordingly.

The 2-subject Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Computer Science plus X is an independent degree programme in which 180 ECTS credits (6 semesters) must be successfully completed. In addition to the subject Computer Science, a second subject has to be chosen, which is studied to the same extent. The programme includes the three areas of study: Subject Science, Area of professionalization and the Bachelor's Thesis. The general teaching langugage is German.

In the area of subject science, an additional subject can be chosen in addition to the subject of computer science, which is studied on an equal footing with 66 ETCS per subject. In doing so, students learn basic knowledge from the field of computer science as well as their second subject.

In the area of professionalization, students have the opportunity to choose a study profile in order to profile themselves according to individual and subject-specific inclinations and career aspirations and to acquire fundamental key competencies for further studies or professional practice. To become a teacher students choose the teaching profession profile. In this profile subject didactics, educational science modules and key competences must be selected accordingly.
If you are interested in a different study profile in the area of professionalisation, please inform yourself on our websites about the study programme Computer Science (B.A.) (2-subjects)

After successful completion of all modules of the specialized studies as well as the mandatory modules of the professionalization area, students can write the bachelor thesis in the subject of computer science or in their second subject to complete the bachelor studies. In the teaching profession profile, the Bachelor's thesis is done in the subject area, not in didactics.

In principle, all subjects of the teaching profession programmes at the University of Göttingen can be chosen as a second subject. An overview of all subjects that can be studied in the 2-subject Bachelor teaching profession can be found on the Degree programmes from A to Z website of the University of Göttingen.

In order to enable a smooth transition to the Master of Education and the subsequent preparatory service / traineeship ("Refendariat"), special applications to the Niedersächsisches Landesinstitut für schulische Qualitätsentwicklung (NLQ) are necessary in individual cases. For individual queries, please contact the student advisory service at the Institute of Computer Science.

An indispensable prerequisite for starting a course of studies is always documentary evidence of university entrance qualification (in German "Hochschulzugangsberechtigung", or HZB). This qualification can be acquired in various ways either at school or through gainful employment.

See more at Entry requirements at Göttingen University

Knowledge in English language is necessary.
See more at: Language requirements for international students

Anyone who wants to study the 2-subject Bachelor of Computer Science plus X does not have to be a math genius or a computer freak. All that is needed is a basic interest in mathematical-logical thinking and practical working methods.

The ability to work in a team is an important prerequisite for later professional life. Also, of course, the interest in teaching children and young people. Specialized knowledge, especially in programming, is not required. Furthermore, an interest in the second subject is of course important.

Open admission (Enrollment without prior application)
Application Guide

Open admission (Enrollment without prior application)
Application Guide

Open admission (application to the university)