The programme is distinguished by its international orientation, its focus on both natural sciences and IT competence and its high level of integration of research and teaching. The programme is characterised by a significant share of research lab courses embedded in both basic and applied research of the participating Fraunhofer Institutes of Applied Information Technology (FIT) and for Algorithms and Scientific Computing (SCAI) in co-operation with regional industry.

With its strong focus on biomedical research the University of Bonn and the University Hospital offer several interesting opportunities to work closely with experimental researchers. In addition, the ABCD region (Aachen, Bonn, Cologne, Duesseldorf) is home to many prospective employers, including global players such as Bayer, as well as many highly specialised medium-sized companies such as Gruenenthal.