Interdisciplinary degree program combines public administration and computer science—to mark the anniversary, HföD and HAW Hof take stock of a unique collaboration that benefits students, the public sector, and society alike
When the University of Public Administration in Bavaria (HföD) and the Hof University of Applied Sciences (HAW Hof) launched the Public Administration and Computer Science program in the fall of 2001, digitization was still barely a factor in the public sector. Bavaria thus took an early lead in combining public administration and computer science, laying the foundation for a collaborative project that, 25 years later, has established itself as a nationally recognized and prestigious degree program. Today, the program produces numerous IT specialists who are helping to shape the digital future of the Free State of Bavaria. Approximately 1,040 graduates now form the backbone of Bavaria’s IT sector.
Albert Füracker, Minister of Finance and Home Affairs, emphasizes:
“People rightly expect a modern, digital administration that functions simply, quickly, and with a focus on citizens. That is why Bavaria brought computer science and public administration together 25 years ago—a forward-thinking move back then, and indispensable today! The joint degree program offered by the HföD and Hof University of Applied Sciences has long since developed into a nationally renowned model of success. With their high level of expertise, innovative ideas, and great dedication, its graduates continue to drive forward the digitization of the Bavarian public administration. They are the digital enablers of our home state. Congratulations on 25 years of administrative informatics in Hof!”
Albert Füracker, Minister of State
Christian Rose, Head of the Department of General Internal Administration at the HföD in Hof:
“Together with HAW Hof, we combine our expertise to provide students with a unique blend of skills. Those who enroll with us acquire in-depth knowledge of public administration and relevant IT skills to create digital frameworks that benefit society. The theory from both fields is immediately applied during the practical components of the dual degree program, making it tangible. Thanks to diverse career opportunities in the public sector in Bavaria, students enjoy great flexibility and are constantly presented with new opportunities to actively expand and improve the digital services offered by government agencies.”
Christian Rose, HföD;
Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Jürgen Lehmann, President of Hof University of Applied Sciences, adds:
“The close collaboration between the universities has been a win-win situation for all involved from the very beginning. Since its inception, the degree program has been continuously refined. As a partner in this collaboration, we are convinced that the curriculum must be constantly updated to ensure education that meets current needs. In a highly dynamic field such as computer science, as well as in the evolving administrative landscape, the program requires constant modernization so that our graduates can help shape the future. This is no longer just about traditional IT fundamentals, but also about data science, IT security, and artificial intelligence—topics that we have incorporated into the curriculum from the very beginning.”
Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Jürgen Lehmann, President of Hof University of Applied Sciences
The most recent example of the program’s continuous development is the new learning environment on the Hof campus. With an AI workspace accessible around the clock, a flexible “scale-up” room, and dedicated AI computing nodes, students have access to state-of-the-art technology for their practical work. The focus is particularly on artificial intelligence, data science, robotics, and IT security, as well as collaborative and project-based learning. This ensures that aspiring administrative IT specialists are specifically prepared for the technological demands of an increasingly digital public administration.
Public Administration Informatics thus exemplifies a career path that combines job security with creative freedom for students: The civil service in Bavaria offers reliable employment prospects, while the tasks themselves—particularly due to the integration of artificial intelligence into public administration—are becoming more diverse and challenging than ever before. Those who study public administration informatics develop solutions for people and help shape the digital future of public administration.
The dual degree program in Public Administration Information Technology combines financial security with excellent career prospects in the public sector in Bavaria. Students are already employed as civil servants during their studies and receive attractive compensation. The practice-oriented training opens up diverse and future-proof career opportunities with Bavaria’s largest employer.
Have we piqued your interest?
Then you’ll find all the information about the dual degree program in Public Administration Information Technology, as well as details on the upcoming recruitment tests, at www.verwaltungsinformatiker.de
