Software Engineering (B.Sc.)

About the course

A three-year (six-semester), English-taught software engineering degree on campus in Berlin, covering algorithms, cybersecurity, data science and machine learning, with specialisation tracks such as web development, software operations, data science and applied AI. Teaching is hands-on, using interactive workshops, group projects and presentations with feedback sessions.

Entry requirements for Irish students

• You need a qualification that gives university entry in Germany. CODE asks international applicants to check this on the DAAD admissions database. Under German rules (KMK/ZAB), the Leaving Certificate gives direct entry only with six subjects: at least two at Higher Level with H5 or better, the other four at O6/H6 or better, and these must include two languages and Maths at O5/H6 or better. For engineering, maths and science courses you also need Higher Level Maths at H5 plus a Higher Level science at H5. LCA and LCVP are not accepted. CODE does not say which subject group it places Software Engineering in, so confirm with admissions@code.berlin before applying.
• Selection is not points-based. After a written application (your school qualification plus motivation answers), you attend an Admission Day, online or on campus, with challenges and an interview. No previous coding experience is needed.
• English at B2 level is required. CODE accepts several certificates but its FAQ does not say whether Leaving Cert English or schooling in Ireland counts, so ask admissions whether you need a separate certificate.

How to apply

1. Check your subjectsBefore choosing your Leaving Cert subjects, make sure you meet the German entry rules: six subjects, two languages and Maths. Aim for Higher Level Maths and a Higher Level science at H5 or better in case the stricter STEM rule applies.
2. Register and apply onlineCreate a profile on CODE’s application portal (code.berlin/apply) and submit the written application: your school record or predicted results and answers to the motivation questions. Applications are rolling, so apply during 6th year well before a late-August 2027 start.
3. Admission DayAttend an Admission Day online or in Berlin, which includes challenges and an interview.
4. Sign contract and choose payment modelIf offered a place, sign the study contract and choose to pay directly (monthly, yearly or upfront), use Stretch Pay, or take the Income Share Agreement. Send your final Leaving Cert results in August, then arrange accommodation and registration in Berlin.

Costs

• CODE is a private, state-recognised university. Its tuition page says fees are typically EUR 650-1,250 a month. Paying directly costs EUR 1,250 a month (EUR 15,000 a year) for 36 months, with discounts for paying yearly or upfront. Alternatives: ‘Stretch Pay’ at EUR 650 a month over six years (three years of study plus three after), interest-free, or an Income Share Agreement with no tuition during studies and 13.2% of income after graduation once earning above about EUR 1,560 a month, capped at 150% of the funded amount. The website does not name the academic year these rates apply to and mentions no application fee. CODE suggests a minimum budget of EUR 1,200 a month on top for rent and living costs.

At a glance