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Business Information Systems

Bachelor of Science (B. Sc.)

How do you optimise business processes using smart IT systems?

Companies need specialists who understand business processes and can translate them into modern IT systems. On the Bachelor’s degree programme in Business Information Systems, you will learn how to analyse business processes, develop digital solutions and make effective use of company data. You will explore software development, process management, data analysis and innovative business models – with a practical focus and an emphasis on the latest technologies. In this way, you will play an active role in shaping the digital transformation of companies.

Business Information Systems

Are you interested in the business activities of companies and how these are implemented in IT systems? Are you curious about how IT systems enable the digitalisation of businesses and society, and would you like to help shape and drive this forward? Then choose to study Business Informatics at THI. This will equip you with the necessary skills to analyse, design and implement innovative software systems to support business processes using state-of-the-art technologies, and to manage them throughout their entire life cycle. The skills of our graduates are in high demand within companies.

Please note: The programme is taught in German!

Job perspectives

Business Information Systems specialists conceive, develop and support the introduction of business application systems. These improve business processes in companies. Administrative tasks (such as wage and salary accounting), production control incl. upstream suppliers (supply chain management) and customer relationship management are carried out using IT systems, for example, more recently on mobile end devices such as smartphones and tablets. Business Informations Systems specialists work at the interface between business administration and information/communication technology, so they need a combination of IT skills, technical expertise and business know-know. 

They are employed in companies in virtually all industries where application systems are used to handle business processes. Their expertise is also in great demand in companies that develop and produce IT products and systems or offer IT services and consulting.

Examples:

  • Application systems coordinator (e.g. SAP)
  • Application/IT consultant
  • Systems planner
  • Systems analyst
  • IT/systems architect
  • Process manager
  • Knowledge manager
  • Project manager
  • IT security manager
Apply now
Degree
Bachelor of Science (B. Sc.)
Duration
7 Semesters
Start of studies
Winter
Main teaching language
German
Admission restricted
No
Type of degree program
Full-time
ECTS
210
Accreditation
Yes

Application period for the 2027/28 winter semester: 2 May to 15 July 2027

Curriculum Business Information Systems

Presentation of curriculums
Semester
1st Semester
  1. Programmierung in Java 1

    The module introduces fundamentals of programming in Java, covering algorithmic concepts, control structures, classes, objects, and data structures. It also addresses memory management and language concepts. In the practical part, students apply and deepen their knowledge using professional tools such as Eclipse and JUnit.

  2. Einführung Informatik

    The module introduces fundamental concepts of computer science, including computer hardware, architecture, operating systems, algorithms, data structures, and programming languages. It also covers basics of theoretical computer science, particularly computability and Turing machines, to provide a solid understanding of information systems.

  3. Einführung Wirtschaftsinformatik 1

    The module covers fundamentals of business information systems as an academic discipline, key concepts of digitalization, and the structure and lifecycle of application systems in organizations. Topics include information and knowledge management. The practical part focuses on business processes, their modeling, optimization, and practical application.

  4. Einführung Betriebswirtschaft

    The module covers fundamentals of business administration, including corporate objectives, key performance indicators, legal forms, and cooperation models. It addresses core business functions such as production, materials, and sales, as well as cross-functional areas like HR, finance, organization, and information. The aim is to understand business processes and their interrelations.

  5. Mathematik für Wirtschaftsinformatiker 1

    The module provides mathematical foundations for business information systems, covering sets, relations, logic, sequences, and series as well as differential and integral calculus. Applications such as financial mathematics and optimization are emphasized. The goal is to develop analytical skills for modeling and solving business-related problems.

  6. Einführungsseminar

    The module introduces key design areas of business information systems with a focus on application systems. Students learn fundamentals of academic research (methods and sources) and apply them in case studies. A company excursion with a live case study links theory and practice.

Programmierung in Java 1

<p>The module introduces fundamentals of programming in Java, covering algorithmic concepts, control structures, classes, objects, and data structures. It also addresses memory management and language concepts. In the practical part, students apply and deepen their knowledge using professional tools such as Eclipse and JUnit.</p>

Einführung Informatik

<p>The module introduces fundamental concepts of computer science, including computer hardware, architecture, operating systems, algorithms, data structures, and programming languages. It also covers basics of theoretical computer science, particularly computability and Turing machines, to provide a solid understanding of information systems.</p>

Einführung Wirtschaftsinformatik 1

<p>The module covers fundamentals of business information systems as an academic discipline, key concepts of digitalization, and the structure and lifecycle of application systems in organizations. Topics include information and knowledge management. The practical part focuses on business processes, their modeling, optimization, and practical application.</p>

Einführung Betriebswirtschaft

<p>The module covers fundamentals of business administration, including corporate objectives, key performance indicators, legal forms, and cooperation models. It addresses core business functions such as production, materials, and sales, as well as cross-functional areas like HR, finance, organization, and information. The aim is to understand business processes and their interrelations.</p>

Mathematik für Wirtschaftsinformatiker 1

<p>The module provides mathematical foundations for business information systems, covering sets, relations, logic, sequences, and series as well as differential and integral calculus. Applications such as financial mathematics and optimization are emphasized. The goal is to develop analytical skills for modeling and solving business-related problems.</p>

Einführungsseminar

<p>The module introduces key design areas of business information systems with a focus on application systems. Students learn fundamentals of academic research (methods and sources) and apply them in case studies. A company excursion with a live case study links theory and practice.</p>

  1. Programmierung in Java 2

    The module deepens object-oriented programming in Java. Topics include classes, objects, inheritance, polymorphism, interfaces, generics, collections, streams, threads, and JavaFX. In the practical part, students develop a Java-based media player with a graphical user interface and automated JUnit tests.

  2. Architektur & Technologien von Unternehmensanwendungen

    The module covers fundamentals of distributed systems and modern IT architectures, including client-server models, microservices, and cloud architectures. It addresses integration and communication concepts, data consistency, scalability, security, and middleware. The aim is to understand complex system landscapes and their challenges.

  3. Einführung in das interne und externe Rechnungswesen

    The module covers fundamentals of external and internal accounting, including financial statements, bookkeeping, and cost accounting with full and partial cost approaches. Students learn to analyze key financial figures and use accounting information for effective business management.

  4. Business and IT English

    Business correspondence is developed through practical application. Key communication situations such as meetings, negotiations, and interviews are addressed alongside current business topics. Role plays, case studies, and discussions support learning. Presentations on IT topics and the online platform MyEnglishLab complement the course.

  5. Mathematik für Wirtschaftsinformatiker 2

    The module provides foundations in linear algebra and statistics. Topics include vectors, matrices, and linear systems, as well as descriptive and inferential statistics, probability theory, estimation, and hypothesis testing. The aim is to analyze and interpret data in business contexts.

  6. Einführungsseminar Medienkompetenz und fachwissenschaftliches ArbeiArbeiten

    Fundamentals of academic research, evaluation, and citation in business information systems are developed. The focus lies on structuring topics, writing academic texts, and designing and delivering presentations. Practical exercises strengthen literature research, writing, and presentation skills.

Programmierung in Java 2

<p>The module deepens object-oriented programming in Java. Topics include classes, objects, inheritance, polymorphism, interfaces, generics, collections, streams, threads, and JavaFX. In the practical part, students develop a Java-based media player with a graphical user interface and automated JUnit tests.</p>

Architektur & Technologien von Unternehmensanwendungen

<p>The module covers fundamentals of distributed systems and modern IT architectures, including client-server models, microservices, and cloud architectures. It addresses integration and communication concepts, data consistency, scalability, security, and middleware. The aim is to understand complex system landscapes and their challenges.</p>

Einführung in das interne und externe Rechnungswesen

<p>The module covers fundamentals of external and internal accounting, including financial statements, bookkeeping, and cost accounting with full and partial cost approaches. Students learn to analyze key financial figures and use accounting information for effective business management.</p>

Business and IT English

<p>Business correspondence is developed through practical application. Key communication situations such as meetings, negotiations, and interviews are addressed alongside current business topics. Role plays, case studies, and discussions support learning. Presentations on IT topics and the online platform MyEnglishLab complement the course.</p>

Mathematik für Wirtschaftsinformatiker 2

<p>The module provides foundations in linear algebra and statistics. Topics include vectors, matrices, and linear systems, as well as descriptive and inferential statistics, probability theory, estimation, and hypothesis testing. The aim is to analyze and interpret data in business contexts.</p>

Einführungsseminar Medienkompetenz und fachwissenschaftliches ArbeiArbeiten

<p>Fundamentals of academic research, evaluation, and citation in business information systems are developed. The focus lies on structuring topics, writing academic texts, and designing and delivering presentations. Practical exercises strengthen literature research, writing, and presentation skills.</p>

  1. Software Engineering

    An introduction to core concepts of software engineering and object-oriented design using UML. Topics include development processes, requirements analysis, design, implementation, and quality assurance. In the practical part, these phases are applied iteratively through hands-on projects.

  2. Datenbanksysteme

    Fundamentals of database systems are developed through concepts, architectures, and design methods. The focus is on ER modeling, relational design, SQL, and transaction management. In the practical part, database schemas are designed, implemented, and queried.

  3. Kommunikationsnetze

    Fundamentals of communication networks and internet architectures are introduced. Topics include layer models, protocols, and key mechanisms of the transport, network, and data link layers. Wireless and mobile communication technologies are also covered to understand the functionality and performance of modern networks.

  4. Anwendungssysteme für Unternehmensprozesse 1

    Core concepts of integrated value chains and end-to-end business processes are explored. Topics include ERP systems, core business processes, and integration aspects as well as system architectures. In the practical part, business processes are executed in SAP ERP to understand their interaction along the value chain.

  5. Geschäftsprozessmanagement und -automatisierung

    Fundamentals of business process management are developed along the BPM lifecycle. The focus is on methods and tools for process modeling and execution, especially using BPMN. This is complemented by insights into sBPM, RPA, and process mining, as well as practical exercises for designing and optimizing processes.

  6. Seminar Wirtschaftsinformatik

Software Engineering

<p>An introduction to core concepts of software engineering and object-oriented design using UML. Topics include development processes, requirements analysis, design, implementation, and quality assurance. In the practical part, these phases are applied iteratively through hands-on projects.</p>

Datenbanksysteme

<p>Fundamentals of database systems are developed through concepts, architectures, and design methods. The focus is on ER modeling, relational design, SQL, and transaction management. In the practical part, database schemas are designed, implemented, and queried.</p>

Kommunikationsnetze

<p>Fundamentals of communication networks and internet architectures are introduced. Topics include layer models, protocols, and key mechanisms of the transport, network, and data link layers. Wireless and mobile communication technologies are also covered to understand the functionality and performance of modern networks.</p>

Anwendungssysteme für Unternehmensprozesse 1

<p>Core concepts of integrated value chains and end-to-end business processes are explored. Topics include ERP systems, core business processes, and integration aspects as well as system architectures. In the practical part, business processes are executed in SAP ERP to understand their interaction along the value chain.</p>

Geschäftsprozessmanagement und -automatisierung

<p>Fundamentals of business process management are developed along the BPM lifecycle. The focus is on methods and tools for process modeling and execution, especially using BPMN. This is complemented by insights into sBPM, RPA, and process mining, as well as practical exercises for designing and optimizing processes.</p>

Seminar Wirtschaftsinformatik

  1. Webtechnologien & Entwicklung von E-Business-Anwendungen

  2. BI-Systeme & Datenanalyse

    Fundamentals and technologies of the World Wide Web are explored from client to server side. The focus is on HTML, CSS, JavaScript, server-side components, and architectural patterns such as MVC. This is complemented by web application design, modern development approaches, and data exchange formats.

  3. IT-Organisation, IT-Management, IT-Steuerung

    Key tasks and concepts of IT management are examined across strategy, organization, and governance. The focus is on ITIL, IT service management, sourcing, and controlling. In the practical part, MS Excel is used for data analysis, visualization, and planning and controlling tools, including automation.

  4. IT-Projektmanagement

    An introduction to fundamental concepts of project management, including methods and approaches for planning and controlling projects. The focus is on interdisciplinary collaboration, program and multi-project management, and supporting IT tools. In the practical part, projects are planned and implemented, applying key techniques such as stakeholder and risk analysis.

Webtechnologien & Entwicklung von E-Business-Anwendungen

BI-Systeme & Datenanalyse

<p>Fundamentals and technologies of the World Wide Web are explored from client to server side. The focus is on HTML, CSS, JavaScript, server-side components, and architectural patterns such as MVC. This is complemented by web application design, modern development approaches, and data exchange formats.</p>

IT-Organisation, IT-Management, IT-Steuerung

<p>Key tasks and concepts of IT management are examined across strategy, organization, and governance. The focus is on ITIL, IT service management, sourcing, and controlling. In the practical part, MS Excel is used for data analysis, visualization, and planning and controlling tools, including automation.</p>

IT-Projektmanagement

<p>An introduction to fundamental concepts of project management, including methods and approaches for planning and controlling projects. The focus is on interdisciplinary collaboration, program and multi-project management, and supporting IT tools. In the practical part, projects are planned and implemented, applying key techniques such as stakeholder and risk analysis.</p>

  1. Praktikum

    The internship enables students to deepen the knowledge and skills acquired in the User Experience Design program. Students select a suitable company in Germany or abroad, work independently on defined tasks, and apply scientific methods to real-world challenges. Their experiences, results, and insights are systematically documented and reflected upon in an internship report.

  2. Praktikumsbegleitende Module

    Communication skills are developed through practical case studies and role plays. The focus is on conversation techniques, perception of verbal and nonverbal signals, and professional presence. Methods for conflict resolution and preparation are practiced and enhanced through targeted feedback. Experiences from the internship are reflected in short presentations and discussed collaboratively. The focus is on linking practical insights with theoretical knowledge. Through exchange and feedback, presentation skills as well as social and communication competences are further developed.

Praktikum

<p>The internship enables students to deepen the knowledge and skills acquired in the User Experience Design program. Students select a suitable company in Germany or abroad, work independently on defined tasks, and apply scientific methods to real-world challenges. Their experiences, results, and insights are systematically documented and reflected upon in an internship report.</p>

Praktikumsbegleitende Module

<p>Communication skills are developed through practical case studies and role plays. The focus is on conversation techniques, perception of verbal and nonverbal signals, and professional presence. Methods for conflict resolution and preparation are practiced and enhanced through targeted feedback. Experiences from the internship are reflected in short presentations and discussed collaboratively. The focus is on linking practical insights with theoretical knowledge. Through exchange and feedback, presentation skills as well as social and communication competences are further developed.</p>

  1. IT-Sicherheit

    Fundamentals and objectives of IT security are explored based on typical threats and attack scenarios. The focus is on protection concepts for networks, systems, and applications as well as mechanisms for authentication, authorization, and auditing. This is complemented by security management approaches and practical application examples.

  2. Anwendungssysteme für Unternehmensprozesse 2

    Core concepts of internal and cross-company logistics and supply chain management are examined. Topics include logistics processes, relationship management (CRM, SRM), and their integration. The aim is to understand networked value chains and supporting application systems.

  3. Project

    The focus is on analysing current business situations and developing a target concept. Data is collected, processes and IT systems are evaluated, and strengths and weaknesses are assessed. Results are presented to decision-makers and documented in a final report.

  4. Fachwissenschaftliche Wahlpflichtfächer

IT-Sicherheit

<p>Fundamentals and objectives of IT security are explored based on typical threats and attack scenarios. The focus is on protection concepts for networks, systems, and applications as well as mechanisms for authentication, authorization, and auditing. This is complemented by security management approaches and practical application examples.</p>

Anwendungssysteme für Unternehmensprozesse 2

<p>Core concepts of internal and cross-company logistics and supply chain management are examined. Topics include logistics processes, relationship management (CRM, SRM), and their integration. The aim is to understand networked value chains and supporting application systems.</p>

Project

<p>The focus is on analysing current business situations and developing a target concept. Data is collected, processes and IT systems are evaluated, and strengths and weaknesses are assessed. Results are presented to decision-makers and documented in a final report.</p>

Fachwissenschaftliche Wahlpflichtfächer

  1. Fachwissenschaftliche Wahlpflichtfächer

  2. E-Business und digitale Transformation

    Business models and technologies of the digital economy are examined in the context of e commerce, e business, and social business. The focus is on digital transformation, internet-based value creation, and its impact on organizations. Case studies and ethical issues, particularly data privacy, complement the analysis.

  3. IT-Recht

    Legal foundations and issues of IT are covered in a national and international context. The focus is on online contract law, data protection, IT compliance, and legal frameworks for digital business models. This is complemented by insights into domain law, criminal law, and legal procedures.

  4. Seminar Bachelorarbeit

    Key aspects of academic work are developed with regard to the bachelor’s thesis. The focus is on legal frameworks, evaluation criteria, and the structure of academic papers. Presentations and discussions support reflection, methodological competence, and the application of good academic practice.

  5. Bachelor's Thesis

    The bachelor’s thesis focuses on practical issues in business information systems, often in cooperation with a company. Using scientific methods, a solution is developed. It is supervised and assessed by a professor. The thesis may be written in German or English and reflects a workload of approximately 300 hours.

Fachwissenschaftliche Wahlpflichtfächer

E-Business und digitale Transformation

<p>Business models and technologies of the digital economy are examined in the context of e commerce, e business, and social business. The focus is on digital transformation, internet-based value creation, and its impact on organizations. Case studies and ethical issues, particularly data privacy, complement the analysis.</p>

IT-Recht

<p>Legal foundations and issues of IT are covered in a national and international context. The focus is on online contract law, data protection, IT compliance, and legal frameworks for digital business models. This is complemented by insights into domain law, criminal law, and legal procedures.</p>

Seminar Bachelorarbeit

<p>Key aspects of academic work are developed with regard to the bachelor’s thesis. The focus is on legal frameworks, evaluation criteria, and the structure of academic papers. Presentations and discussions support reflection, methodological competence, and the application of good academic practice.</p>

Bachelor's Thesis

<p>The bachelor’s thesis focuses on practical issues in business information systems, often in cooperation with a company. Using scientific methods, a solution is developed. It is supervised and assessed by a professor. The thesis may be written in German or English and reflects a workload of approximately 300 hours.</p>

Curriculum Business Information Systems — Overview of all semesters and modules
1. Semester
  • Programmierung in Java 1
  • Einführung Informatik
  • Einführung Wirtschaftsinformatik 1
  • Einführung Betriebswirtschaft
  • Mathematik für Wirtschaftsinformatiker 1
  • Einführungsseminar
2. Semester
  • Programmierung in Java 2
  • Architektur & Technologien von Unternehmensanwendungen
  • Einführung in das interne und externe Rechnungswesen
  • Business and IT English
  • Mathematik für Wirtschaftsinformatiker 2
  • Einführungsseminar Medienkompetenz und fachwissenschaftliches ArbeiArbeiten
3. Semester
  • Software Engineering
  • Datenbanksysteme
  • Kommunikationsnetze
  • Anwendungssysteme für Unternehmensprozesse 1
  • Geschäftsprozessmanagement und -automatisierung
  • Seminar Wirtschaftsinformatik
4. Semester
  • Webtechnologien & Entwicklung von E-Business-Anwendungen
  • BI-Systeme & Datenanalyse
  • IT-Organisation, IT-Management, IT-Steuerung
  • IT-Projektmanagement
5. Semester
  • Praktikum
  • Praktikumsbegleitende Module
6. Semester
  • IT-Sicherheit
  • Anwendungssysteme für Unternehmensprozesse 2
  • Project
  • Fachwissenschaftliche Wahlpflichtfächer
7. Semester
  • Fachwissenschaftliche Wahlpflichtfächer
  • E-Business und digitale Transformation
  • IT-Recht
  • Seminar Bachelorarbeit
  • Bachelor's Thesis

Structure

First study phase

The first phase comprises the first two study semesters. This phase covers the basics of business information systems, business administration and information technology, as well as programming in Java, the underlying technological principles of application systems and the mathematical basis relevant to business informatics specialists. Language skills are also taught during this phase.

Second study phase

The second degree phase (3rd – 7th semester) comprises four semesters of theoretical study and an 18-week period of practical study in the fifth semester. In the 3rd and 4th semester, skills in the area of software development are extended with software engineering and the development of web applications; database systems and communication networks are also dealt with, since these form the basis of virtually all application systems. Students also get to know different types of application system (such as ERP systems and business intelligence systems) and develop skills in business process management, IT organisation, IT management, IT control and IT project management. Scientific methodology and presentation skills are also taught during this phase.
In the 6th and 7th semester, students learn about IT security, IT law and other types of application system, while also developing an understanding of e-business as well as digital transformation in companies and the challenges this entails. During these semesters, considerable priority is attached to individual thematic orientation and specialisation in such areas as data business intelligence, data analytics/data science, the development of enterprise applications and business administration in companies. This is occurs by means of freely selectable specialist modules, a project and the bachelor's degree assignment which concludes the study of business information systems.
 

Interesting Facts

  1. Dual study programme

    A combined model (degree programme & vocational training) OR a degree programme with in-depth practical experience (degree programme and intensive practical placements) are available. For the dual study programme, you must apply both to the company and to the university (please note: be sure to check the company’s application deadlines!).

  2. Studying abroad whilst at university

    During your studies, you will have the opportunity to gain international experience. THI has an international network comprising more than 150 partner universities as well as numerous international companies worldwide. Our International Office serves as a central point of contact for all students.

  3. Funding for Studies

    At THI, students have access to a wide range of support options in the form of scholarships. We recommend that students living on their own budget for at least 700–900 EUR per month for personal expenses (accommodation, health insurance, food, books, tuition fees).

Admission requirements
To gain admission to the programme, applicants need one of the following qualifications for university entrance:

  • Abitur (European Baccalaureate, A-Levels, High School Diploma)
  • Fachhochschulreife (Vocational Baccalaureate)
  • Fachgebundene Hochschulreife (Specialised A-Level)

The following link provides specific information about the application process for admission to the degree programme.

Admission requirements for international students
If you wish to study at a German University, you need a so-called Hochschulzugangsberechtigung (HZB), or higher education entrance qualification. This is a secondary school-leaving certificate that corresponds to the German Abitur and entitles you to study.
Students from abroad must apply for admission from the university of their choice. For your application, you will require for a Bachelor's degree:

  • a school-leaving certificate (also known as "university entrance qualification", e.g. High School Diploma, Matura, A-Levels, Bachillerato, Atestat, baccalauréat)
    or
  • proof that you have passed the university entrance examination (if required in your home country)

(Source: German Academic Exchange Service, DAAD, July 2016)

Questions

Any questions?

Do you have any questions about applications, admission, enrolment, student finance, accommodation or other general topics? If so, please use our contact form and select the relevant topic. This will ensure your enquiry is sent directly to the relevant contact person(s) and can be answered quickly and effectively.

People

Programme director

  1. Prof. Dr. Jochen Rasch

    Programme director "Business Information Systems" (B.Sc.) and "Business Information Systems Engineering" (M. Sc.)

    Prof. Dr. Jochen Rasch

More Contact Options

  1. Mathis Burger

    Study Ambassador Business Information Systems

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