Institute of Mobile and Distributed Systems

School of Computer Science

We are a multidisciplinary computer sciences institute specialising in the Internet of Things (IoT) and IT security.

Technologies for a Connected Future

Distributed systems are the backbone of our connected world:They enable seamless communication, global collaboration, real-time data analysis, and highly available services — from connected manufacturing and collaboration platforms to decentralized blockchain applications.

The Institute for Mobile and Distributed Systems (IMVS) is a multidisciplinary institute of the FHNW School of Computer Science. We develop solutions that intelligently connect the physical and digital worlds, relying on open standards, modern software engineering, highly available architectures, and robust security concepts.

Our expertise includes IT security and blockchain technologies, the Internet of Things (IoT), computer vision and cloud computing, agile software development, and web engineering. We bridge research and practice and work closely with industry partners to deliver innovative, secure, and scalable systems.

Students benefit from hands-on projects and direct access to cutting-edge research — preparing them optimally for the challenges of a digital, globally connected, and dynamic IT landscape. Together, we shape the technological future.

New: Security, Platforms & DevOps:

The new specialization “Security, Platforms & DevOps” offered by IMVS focuses on the development, operation, and security of modern IT platforms. Key areas include secure cloud and on-premises infrastructures, automation of the software lifecycle using DevOps methodologies, continuous integration and continuous delivery, as well as monitoring and observability.

Research Fields

Agile Software Engineering

Agile Software Engineering: fast, smart and future-ready

Institute: Institute of Mobile and Distributed Systems

Cloud Technologies

From Infrastructure as Code to cloud nativeness: expertise for scalable and sustainable solutions

Institute: Institute of Mobile and Distributed Systems

Computer Vision

Understanding images, connecting systems – Computer Vision for real-time and edge computing

Institute: Institute of Mobile and Distributed Systems

Internet of Things (IoT)

IoT that connects – secure, smart, and future-ready

Institute: Institute of Mobile and Distributed Systems

IT-Security

Data exchanged by Internet of Things (IoT) applications is vulnerable to attack. We implement appropriate measures to ensure that data is effectively protected at all times. Blockchain-based concepts are also employed where appropriate.

Institute: Institute of Mobile and Distributed Systems

Web Engineering

Mastering Web Technologies – From Development to Open-Source Innovation

Institute: Institute of Mobile and Distributed Systems

Degree programmes

BSc Game Technologies & Extended Reality

Dive into two fascinating focus areas: Games and Extended Reality (XR). Learn how modern games combine computer graphics, algorithms, and user-centered design to create interactive worlds. Discover XR (VR/AR/MR) as a new form of human–computer interaction—where digital and physical spaces merge.

Studying mode: Practice-integrated bachelor's degree program (PiBS), Part-time/work-study, Full-time
Teaching language: English, German
Place: Brugg-Windisch
Next start: 14.9.2026

BSc Data Science & Artificial Intelligence

Become an expert in Artificial Intelligence! Turn data into knowledge and develop cutting-edge AI applications. You study flexibly, practice-oriented and well connected – with plenty of project work, individual coaching and a vibrant community.

Studying mode: Practice-integrated bachelor's degree program (PiBS), Part-time/work-study, Full-time
Teaching language: English, German
Place: Brugg-Windisch
Next start: 14.9.2026

BSc Data Science & Artificial Intelligence for Sustainability

Your path to a sustainable future!

Studying mode: Full-time, Part-time/work-study, Practice-integrated bachelor's degree program (PiBS)
Teaching language: English, German
Place: Brugg-Windisch
Next start: 14.9.2026

BSc Security, Platforms & DevOps

Modern software is more than just code – it must be secure, scalable, and continuously available. If you’re interested in what security really means and how to successfully develop and operate robust software solutions throughout their entire lifecycle, the Bachelor’s degree in Security, Platforms & DevOps is the ideal choice for you. Because reliable software is successful software.

Studying mode: Practice-integrated bachelor's degree program (PiBS), Part-time/work-study, Full-time
Teaching language: English, German
Place: Brugg-Windisch
Next start: 14.9.2026

BSc Data Science & AI for Sports

Sport inspires and connects people. With your degree in Data Science & AI for Sport, you’re right at the heart of it: thanks to your analytical skills, you advise elite teams and individual athletes, helping to further develop the world of sports in a data-driven and sustainable way.

Studying mode: Practice-integrated bachelor's degree program (PiBS), Part-time/work-study, Full-time
Teaching language: English, German
Place: Brugg-Windisch
Next start: 14.9.2026

MSE - Profile Data Science

Have you completed a technically oriented Bachelor’s degree and would like to deepen your expertise in Computer Science or Data Science? Then the MSE is the right choice for you!

Studying mode: Part-time/work-study, Full-time
Teaching language: English
Place: Brugg-Windisch
Next start: 22.2.2027

MSE - Profile Information and Cybersecurity (ICS)

Have you completed a technically oriented Bachelor’s degree and would like to deepen your expertise in Computer Science or Data Science? Then the MSE is the right choice for you!

Studying mode: Part-time/work-study, Full-time
Teaching language: English
Place: Brugg-Windisch
Next start: 22.2.2027

BSc Computer Science

Immerse yourself in the world of IT: The Bachelor’s degree programme in Computer Science at the FHNW University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland combines comprehensive academic knowledge with a strong practical focus. You will gain a deep understanding of how IT systems work at their core and develop into a highly sought-after professional in the field.

Studying mode: Practice-integrated bachelor's degree program (PiBS), Part-time/work-study, Full-time
Teaching language: English, German
Place: Brugg-Windisch
Next start: 14.9.2026

BSc Design & Management (iCompetence)

Expanding Computer Science through Design & Management

Studying mode: Practice-integrated bachelor's degree program (PiBS), Full-time, Part-time/work-study
Teaching language: English, German
Place: Brugg-Windisch
Next start: 14.9.2026

BSc Software Engineering & Intelligent Technologies

Learn today how to develop the software of tomorrow – practice-oriented, future-proof, and responsible.

Studying mode: Practice-integrated bachelor's degree program (PiBS), Part-time/work-study, Full-time
Teaching language: English, German
Place: Basel
Next start: 14.9.2026

AI & High Performance Computing

Get superpowers - learn how to build the machine!

Studying mode: Practice-integrated bachelor's degree program (PiBS), Part-time/work-study, Full-time
Teaching language: English, German
Place: Brugg-Windisch
Next start: 14.9.2026

MSE - Profile Computer Science

Have you completed a technically oriented Bachelor’s degree and would like to deepen your expertise in Computer Science or Data Science? Then the MSE is the right choice for you!

Studying mode: Part-time/work-study, Full-time
Teaching language: English
Place: Brugg-Windisch
Next start: 22.2.2027

Continuing education programme

We offer a wide range of continuing education programs in German, designed to keep you at the forefront of digital innovation. At FHNW School of Computer Science, you benefit from practice-oriented learning, strong industry connections, and cutting-edge expertise. Discover the latest trends in IT and advance your career with flexible, high-quality programs tailored to professionals.

Explore all continuing education programmes

Selected Projects

"Light Node" blockchain architecture

In cooperation with research and business partners, the FHNW Institute of Business Engineering is developing an ergonomic “Light Node” blockchain architecture for the simplified onboarding of small companies to the innovative “MedTech Blockchain Platform”.

Institute: Institute of Business Engineering, Institute of Mobile and Distributed Systems
Research field: Business processes

Energiefahrplan

To support load management and energy procurement for a distribution network operator, FHNW has developed a practical tool.

Institute: Institute of Mobile and Distributed Systems

Web-Based Diagnostics of Production Facilities

A newly developed diagnostic tool enables real-time remote monitoring of complex manufacturing systems worldwide.

Institute: Institute of Automation, Institute of Mobile and Distributed Systems

Convergence of Building Automation and the IT World

Building Automation in the Age of the Internet of Things (IoT)

Institute: Institute of Automation, Institute of Mobile and Distributed Systems

Our Team

In Applied Research and Development, we collaborate with partners in industry and business to research and develop new technologies, methods and applications in computer sciences. In addition, we teach at the FHNW School of Engineering.

Network and Partners

Network

Netzwerk SDS
The network for a sovereign digital Switzerland. We contribute our expertise in the use and development of open-source technologies as well as in the operation of sovereign IT infrastructures.

Swiss Agile Research Network (SARN)
As a member and co-founder of SARN, we collaborate with partners from academia and industry in Switzerland and internationally to conduct research on agile software development and modern software engineering methodologies.

SmartGridready
We are involved in a project that enables the testing of system interoperability in accordance with the SmartGridready standard.

Swiss Informatics Research Association (SIRA)
SIRA promotes collaboration within the computer science research community and enhances the visibility of research and teaching in Switzerland.

Stiftung Schweizer Jugend forscht
We are involved in organizing the study weeksgirls@scienceandboys@science.