Symposium: Computer science degree programs in transition

Almost nothing works today without IT. But how do you train future experts for such a diverse technology sector with ever shorter innovation cycles? This question was the subject of a symposium at RWU Ravensburg-Weingarten University of Applied Sciences at the end of November.

The conference "Computer science degree programs in transition: challenges, opportunities, solutions" focused on two main topics: Attracting new students and the consequences of artificial intelligence for the curricula of computer science degree programs. The symposium was sponsored by the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Science, Research and the Arts.

Representatives from 18 universities from southern Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Liechtenstein accepted the invitation to Weingarten. They were welcomed by the Dean of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Professor Dr. Bela Mutschler, and the Vice-Rector for Studies and Teaching, Professor Dr. Sebastian Mauser. "These formats of exchange are not only suitable for discussing solutions together, but also for taking another step back and thoroughly analyzing and understanding the challenge," says Bela Mutschler.

Networking that benefits all sides

In her welcoming address, Dr. Imke Buß from the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Science, Research and the Arts emphasized that the state is currently investing two million euros in making STEM degree courses more attractive. In addition to the interface between school and university, the main focus is on the further development of teaching content. "The kind of exchange that takes place here at RWU is essential for both areas. As the experts in the degree programs, you are already discussing these topics. All sides benefit from networking," says Imke Buß.

Sandra Herkle gave the keynote speech on the first block of topics, "Course marketing". She is Head of Communications and Marketing in the Department of Computer Science at ETH Zurich. The number of first-year students in computer science at ETH has risen from 100 to almost 450 over the past 40 years. She has also succeeded in significantly increasing the proportion of women.

What new skills computer scientists need in the age of AI.

The afternoon then focused on artificial intelligence. The keynote speech was given by Professor Dr. Marius Hofmeister, who heads the Bachelor's degree programme in Applied Computer Science at RWU and was responsible for organizing the conference. His input focused on the question of what new skills computer scientists need in the age of AI.

The event was accompanied journalistically by Deutschlandfunk, which made the symposium the subject of its educational magazine "Campus & Karriere". In the final round, the participants agreed that they would like to continue the meetings and the meaningful exchange in this round.

Text: Christoph Oldenkotte / Hannes Gilch / Prof. Dr. Marius Hofmeister