Germany's first AI graduate
For Lucas Fobian, the lateral entry into artificial intelligence has paid off
3.8.2021 | DIT Public Relations
In autumn 2019, the Deggendorf Institute of Technology (DIT) launched Germany's first Bachelor's degree programme in Artificial Intelligence (AI). After just under two years, Lucas Fobian is now Germany's first AI bachelor's graduate.
"AI experts are currently in high demand on the market," reports Prof. Dr. Patrick Glauner. He adds: "However, companies cannot wait three to four years for the first graduates." In addition to the regular start of the new degree programme, DIT therefore offered a one-time programme called "lateral entry". This enabled professionals with a technical degree or those who had changed their field of study to acquire AI skills in just two years. A concept that originated with the then and now retired programme coordinator Prof. Dr. Dr. Heribert Popp.
Lucas Fobian, now the first graduate, was immediately convinced: "During my studies in general computer science, I realised that I was particularly interested in the sub-field of AI. Fortunately, DIT offered lateral entry at exactly this time. This meant that large parts of my basic studies could be credited to me." He carried out his Bachelor's thesis in cooperation with the Bavarian State Criminal Police Office (BLKA). Here he developed an AI from the field of "predictive policing" to forecast residential burglaries. Prof. Glauner supervised this Bachelor's thesis and proudly reports: "The BLKA is very satisfied with the results. It has been confirmed that our AI graduates are excellently qualified for the implementation of AI applications." Currently, almost 15 more "lateral entrants" are working on their Bachelor's theses. They will complete their studies in the coming weeks and will then also be available to the labour market.
More information on the DIT's AI degree programmes can be found at www.th-deg.de/ai-en . If you have any questions about the AI degree programmes, please contact Prof. Glauner directly at patrick.glauner@th-deg.de. Applications for a place on the programme are still possible until 15 August.
Bild (private): Lucas Fobian, Germany's first AI Bachelor graduate.