Computer Science B.Sc., Gymnasium and Gesamtschule Teacher

 

Computer science is the science of analysis, conception, implementation, and evaluation of information-processing systems. The static structure and dynamic behavior of such systems is described and investigated with basic terms such as information, modelling, algorithm, complexity, and efficiency.

In accordance with its origins, computer science contains mathematic elements, such as the qualitative and quantitative classification of problems and algorithms and correctness proofs for programs, as well as engineering elements, such as the solution of concrete application problems under optimal use of existing computer resources. Within the field of this spectrum, computer science has developed into a discipline with its own scientific methodology and has a strong influence on developments in other fields: computer science methods are implemented in almost all fields of science and daily life, in order to efficiently solved application specific problems.

In school, the focus of computer science is on modelling computer science systems, programming concepts, and on approaches for designing algorithms. In university studies of computer science, these things are further investigated and expanded, such as into software engineering, diverse modelling methods, and programming paradigms, and new aspects are included, particularly technical (computer structures and networks) and theoretical (mathematic methods for modelling and the analysis of algorithms and systems) foundations of computer science. Generic further work in specialized fields of practical and applied computer science is also included.

 

Degree Content

The teacher training Bachelor course of study in computer science offers a broad education in the scientific foundation of computer science. The knowledge acquired during these studies, which expands far beyond that what is learned in school, enables students to confidently work with new technologies and the resulting curricula later in their careers. The Bachelor studies encompass courses in the following areas:

• Practical Computer Science (programming, data structures and algorithms, databases and information systems, introduction to software engineering, software internship)
• Computer Engineering (introduction into computer engineering, operating systems and system software, secure distributed systems)
• Theoretical Computer Science (discrete structures, formal systems, automats, processes, computability and complexity)
• Introduction into the Pedagogy of Computer Science

You can find more information about the course of study and information and taster events for prospective students from the Department of Computer Science.

Programs Abroad
The Moveonline Exchanges database is helpful if you want an overview of all the exchange programs at RWTH Aachen.

 

Combination Possibilities

Two of the following instructional subjects are combined in studies for teachers at Gymnasien and Gesamtschulen: biology, chemistry, German, English, French, history, computer science, Catholic religious education, math, physics, and Spanish. Every subject can be equally combined with another. Course of Study Model Lehramt at Gymnasien and Gesamtschulen (de)

 

Decision Aids

Should I become a teacher? Do I want to work as a teacher? If you are asking yourself these questions, there are a few services to help you get to know yourself:

RWTH Aachen Self Assessment
Career Counseling for Teachers
Fit für den Lehrerberuf

Suitability Experience
In the future, teaching training in NRW will include a so called “Suitability Experience,” which is recommended to be completed before the beginning of a student’s studies.  This is not a requirement for studies.  That means: it does not have to have been completed at the time of enrollment.  It can be completed during the course of study, and must be completed before the start of the teaching practice or internship (after studies).  More information is available on the Lehrerbildungszentrum page about the suitability experience and in the Ministry of Schools brochure.

 

Prerequisites

Personal Prerequisites
In computer science, diverse methods for the structuring, modelling, analysis, and solving of problems are implemented that extend far beyond pure programming. Thus you should have fun with math but also be interested in natural sciences and technology and already possess initial programming skills, since these are necessary for implementing problem solutions. RWTH Aachen offers a mathematics bridge course and computer science bridge course in its bridge program to intensify and complete your knowledge.

Enrollment Prerequisite
The  RWTH Aachen "Lehramt" Self Assessment is an enrollment prerequisite for this course of study.  You will need to submit your participation certificate when you enroll, but not in order to apply.

 

Career Prospects

You can find information from the NRW Ministry of Schools about the career prospects for various fields of teaching through 2030 in the brochure Prognoses on the Job Market for Teachers in North Rhine-Westphalia.

 

Master's Degree Prospects

After successfully completing the Bachelor degree, you can continue with the Master of Education (4 semesters).  With this degree, you can start your teaching practice (This phase used to be called "Refendariat" instead of "Vorbereitungsdienst".)

Since your Bachelor degree opens up various futher education possibilities, you can - depending on your subject combination - persue other Master's programs.  The respective exam board will decide whether or not you are qualified for a Master's that is not in the field of education.

 

Examination Regulations

Exam regulations regulate academic goals and prerequisites, the course of study layout, and exam procedures.  The appendix to the regulations contains the description of the modules, from which the course of study is composed.

General Regulations: Comprehensive Exam Regulations of RWTH Aachen Bachelor Teaching Training for Gymnasien, Gesamtschulen, and Berufskollegs

Special Regulations: Subject Specific Exam Regulations (de) (The current version applies to all first year students.)

 

Faculty

The Computer Science course of study is offered by the Department of Computer Science in the Faculty of Mathematics, Computer Science, and Natural Sciences.