Study

Degree programmes

The Ruhr-University Bochum (RUB) has been a pioneer in IT security education since 2000. Today the RUB is the largest educational institution for IT security in Europe with 1,000 students as well as around 200 enrolments and 120 degrees per year.

The comprehensive range of courses is characterized by the interdisciplinary combination of computer science and engineering. However, the focus on IT security is particularly groundbreaking.

Students at the RUB attend lectures in cryptography, network and computer security from the very beginning.

The excellent breadth and depth of the research-related courses are also reflected in the numerous special lectures on IT security. In addition, to a substantial primary education, the courses offer lectures on highly topical research topics such as cryptocurrencies (e.g. Bitcoin), privacy or digital forensics.

Quicklinks

Bachelors in IT Security

Masters in IT Security
Information Technology

Masters in IT Security
Networks and Systems

Distance-learning course
Applied IT-Security

ITS.Connect

We offer a Bachelors program and three Masters programs. Researchers at the RUB teach on all four courses:

Bachelor IT Security

The undergraduate Bachelor program in IT security does not require any particular previous knowledge except for the university entrance qualification (Abitur or comparable degree). Interest in logical thinking and technical contexts are the best prerequisites. Basic subjects are cryptography, mathematics and an introduction to computer science. Afterwards, extensive knowledge of modern IT security will be conveyed. The course of studies terminates with an industrial internship and the bachelor thesis.

Masters in IT Security / Information Technology

The Master program in IT Security / Information Technology is dedicated for graduates of the Bachelor program IT Security. It deepens and expands the knowledge gained there and is characterized in particular by a broad range of more than 25 elective courses in the field of IT security and privacy. The program finishes with a master thesis, which deals with current issues in IT security.

Masters in IT Security / Networks and Systems

The Master program in IT Security / Networks and Systems is open to students with a Bachelor degree in computer science, electrical engineering, information technology, mathematics or physics. In addition to compulsory lectures, in which topics such as cryptography, network and operating system security are taught, students can choose from over 30 elective courses from the most diverse areas of modern IT security.

Distance-learning course Applied IT-Security

In cooperation with the International School of IT Security (isits AG) the RUB offers the distance learning course Applied IT Security. It was introduced more than ten years ago as the first distance learning course for IT security in Germany and nowadays enjoys great popularity. It enables interested parties from all over Germany and beyond to acquire a master degree in one of the most popular fields of technology – besides their regular work. Entry requirements are at least one year of professional activity and a Bachelor degree in computer science, electrical engineering, information technology, mathematics or physics. Similar to the face-to-face Master programs, this Master program also offers extensive training in the fundamentals and current topics of IT security.

03:50 / 00:00

Learn from the best

Why study IT security? And why in Bochum? Our video provides answers to these and other questions. You can find more videos on our YouTube channel. YouTube channel.

What others are saying about the HGI

Ruhr-University Bochum is a one-of-a-kind place to study, with internationally renowned professors who collaborate closely with one another. As a student, you have access to a wide range of expertise.

M. Sc. David Rupprecht
Doctoral researcher at the HGI

The training is fantastic and totally unique in Europe. Anyone who studies here won’t be waiting long for a job offer afterwards. Or they’ll start a company of their own, like I did.

Dr.-Ing. Timo Kasper
Alumnus and co-founder of Kasper & Oswald GmbH

In the hacker practical training, students assumed the role of an attacker and simulated an attack on a large network. This way we learn how to stay one step ahead of attackers and how to safeguard systems.

Frederic Schulz
Student on the Bachelors in IT Security course

Why IT security?

With the rapidly advancing digitalization of all areas of life, IT security is increasingly becoming a central prerequisite for the self-determination of private individuals, companies and states. If you want to help protect private and public data, self-driving cars or public infrastructure from cybercriminal attacks – essentially: if you’re looking to help save the world – then you have come to the right place.

Excellent and diversified: Career and job prospects in IT security

The career prospects of the graduates are excellent and broadly diversified: from the development of cryptographic procedures for electronic cards to the management of the security departments of large companies to work in the growing field of IT security consulting. They are also sought after by governmental entities, such as the Federal Office for Information Security or intelligence agencies. Our degrees are also excellent preparation for engaging in further research at a university or in industry.

The broad approach of our study courses prepares students exceptionally well for a number of career paths outside of IT security too. We are particularly distinguished through the way we connect computer science and engineering – a combination that is in high demand in the IT industry. Our graduates are consequently very well prepared for careers in the mobile phone industry and in telecommunications or software companies.

0 Students in IT security

0 Newly enrolled students annually

0 Highly qualified graduates each year

0 Top three places in the CAST Award for best thesis in the field of IT security