Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

School of 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.

Factsheet

Degree: Bachelor of Science FHNW in Computer Science
Study mode: Practice-integrated bachelor's degree program (PiBS), Part-time/work-study, Full-time
ECTS credits: 180
Next start: 1.3.2027
Teaching language: German / English
Place: FHNW Campus Brugg-Windisch
As of spring semester also in Basel

At a glance

Shape digital innovation: Don’t just use technology — develop it yourself.
Learn your way: Flexible, project-based studies with personal coaching.
Top skills: Highly sought-after expertise in modern software engineering and digital systems.

To the Module overview

Why study this?

You use social media apps, cloud platforms and operating systems every day — but do you know what lies behind them?

In the Computer Science degree programme, you dive deep into the world of technology and learn how IT systems really work. You gain the knowledge and skills to develop software, manage data securely and actively shape the digital future.

If you are curious about how digital innovation is created, then the Computer Science degree programme is the right choice for you.

Automation of solutions for everyday challenges

Computer science means creating solutions through intelligent automation that make our lives and work simpler, more efficient and more sustainable. It has become indispensable in every area of life — whether in healthcare, environmental engineering, industry, education, finance, public administration or climate research.

Computer science professionals work across disciplines, combine technical expertise with specialised domain knowledge and develop tailored digital solutions for complex challenges.

The Computer Science degree programme is ideal for you if you want to build a strong technical foundation that you can apply across a wide range of professional fields.

Possible Career Paths

With a Bachelor of Science FHNW in Computer Science, you benefit from excellent career prospects in a globally growing and future-oriented job market. You take on key roles within organisations and actively shape digital transformation.

Depending on your interests, you can work in a wide range of sectors — from healthcare to finance, and from start-ups to global corporations.

Typical Career Paths

Software Engineer
You develop efficient, user-centred software solutions as part of a team — working in an agile and structured way.

Cloud Engineer
You design, implement and maintain modern cloud infrastructures.

Systems Engineer
You ensure the stable and secure operation of IT systems and infrastructures.

Platform Engineer
You create the technical foundation for developing and reliably operating applications.

Security Engineer
You actively protect IT systems and data against threats and security risks.

AI Engineer
You develop AI models and algorithms to solve complex problems intelligently.

Solution Architect
You design comprehensive technical solutions tailored to organisational requirements.

Business Information Systems Specialist
You combine IT expertise with business knowledge to optimise processes and implement smart solutions.

Requirements Engineer
You analyse client needs and define precise requirements for IT systems.

IT Project Manager
You plan, manage and deliver complex IT projects — technically, economically and strategically.

Cloud Service Manager
You operate at the interface between technology and business, developing user-oriented cloud services.

Structure and programme contents

The Bachelor’s degree programme in Computer Science at the FHNW University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland provides a solid and practice-oriented education that prepares you for the diverse challenges of the digital world.

The programme is structured into different areas, combining theoretical foundations with applied competencies.

Structure

Core Modules	In the first year of study, students acquire essential knowledge in areas such as software engineering, programming, mathematics and the theoretical foundations of computer science. This foundation forms the assessment year and provides the basis for advanced modules.
DevOps	Focus on agile software development and the operation of software products in modern, cloud-based environments.
ICT System Management	Planning and secure operation of critical IT infrastructures.
Spatial Computing	Development of technologies that seamlessly integrate computers into our natural environment.
Web Engineering	Development of secure and scalable web applications with high-quality user interfaces.
Projects and Practical Experience	A key component of the programme is the practical application of the knowledge acquired. In each semester, students work on projects, often in collaboration with industry partners. The programme concludes with a Bachelor’s thesis, in which students independently address a specific real-world problem. To the projects: - Projects 1 & 2 - Projects 3 & 4 - Projects 5 - Projects 6 (Bachelor)
Contextmodules	n addition to the subject-specific content, students attend modules covering social, economic and language-related topics. These modules foster transferable skills and prepare students for interdisciplinary challenges in their professional careers.

Through this structured and practice-oriented education, you will graduate as a highly sought-after professional in the IT industry and beyond.

Module overview

The Curriculum visualizes the modules within a study field and provides a clear overview of the programme structure and content.

The Computer Science curriculum covers the following areas:

Computer Science with a focus on Software Engineering	You develop modern software solutions — from foundational concepts to professional engineering methods.
Theoretical Foundations and Mathematics	You deepen your understanding of mathematical and theoretical concepts that are essential for analysing and designing complex computer science systems.
Computer Science and Society	You explore how digital technologies influence society, the economy and the environment.
English and Intercultural Communication	You strengthen your English language skills and learn to communicate clearly and effectively in technical projects.

In your third year, you choose one of four specialisations to develop your profile in a professionally relevant field.

Lecturers

You learn from lecturers with expertise in data science, AI and software development, who integrate their applied research and industry projects directly into teaching. Personal coaches support you throughout your academic and professional development — from the first modules to your Bachelor’s thesis.

Most modules are taught by lecturers from the Institute of Data Science, the Institute of Interactive Technologies and the Institute of Mobile and Distributed Systems at the FHNW School of Computer Science.

Mathematics modules are delivered by the Institute of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at the FHNW School of Engineering and Environment.
Context modules covering social, economic and language-related topics are attended together with students from the FHNW School of Engineering and Environment and are taught by the Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences.