IT Orientation Prep Course

In the Computer Science Orientation Prep Course, we'll introduce you to many facets of computer science within six months (one semester). You'll study subjects such as "Programming", "Introduction to Business Information Systems and Data Science" and "Computer Graphics" and deepen your knowledge in a practical project module. All of this is supplemented by methodology such as time management and study skills.

During your orientation course, there are also exams as in normal study semesters. But don't worry, it's no problem if you fail something. Everything you pass will be listed on your certificate, which you you receive at the end of the semester. Appropriate courses will be credited for your subsequent studies making it easier for you to get started.

To apply for the Computer Science Orientation prep course you need a university entrance qualification.

You need either the general higher education entrance qualification (Abitur), the subject-specific higher education entrance qualification, the entrance qualification for universities of applied sciences or a previous qualification recognised as equivalent.

General higher education entrance qualification: Abitur at

• general grammar schools and comprehensive schools
• vocational grammar schools and specialised grammar schools
• vocational high schools
• colleges as full-time schools
• evening grammar schools
• independent Waldorf schools

Subject-specific higher education entrance qualification: school-leaving examination at

• specialised grammar schools
• vocational high schools

Fachhochschulreife: school-leaving examination at

• gymnasien/Fachgymnasien/Gesamtschulen/freie Waldorfschulen after the 12th grade (academic part), a vocational part must also be proven
• technical colleges
• vocational colleges and vocational schools
• evening grammar schools

Did you know that you can even study without an Abitur? If you have completed vocational training and have at least three years of professional experience, you can apply to study via an aptitude test.

These subjects will be on your timetable: 

• Programming: lecture with a practical
• Introduction to business information systems and data science / academic study skills
• Computer Graphics: lecture with a practical
• Project
• Methodology: computational thinking, self-management and time management, study skills

Download file:OT Study and Examinations Regulations (SPO)

OT module descriptions:

• Download file:Module catalogue

• Easy start with personal support
• Advice on future plans and the choice of degree programme
• Exchange with other students will help you find your way
• Easier foundation studies, as you no longer have to complete credited modules
• Get to know university life and acquire important skills for successful studies
• State-of-the-art facilities at the Furtwangen University campus
• Wide range of media in the HFU libraries

ECTS that you earn in your orientation semester in Computer Science can be credited to a subsequent bachelor's degree programme, provided they are relevant to your subject.