Why Information Systems Is More Important Than Ever

Artificial intelligence is transforming the way software is developed, businesses are managed, and digital innovations are created. In a recent segment on WDR Lokalzeit Essen, Prof. Dr. Hannes Rothe from the Department of Computer Science at the University of Duisburg-Essen explained the impact this development is having on computer science and business informatics.

Rothe made it clear that while AI will bring about lasting changes to the world of work, it will not replace the fundamental skills of computer scientists. Rather, the requirements are shifting. In addition to technical expertise, the ability to analyze problems, design complex systems, and use AI tools thoughtfully will become increasingly important in the future.

From Rothe’s perspective, there is also no cause for concern among prospective students. The degree programs offered by the Faculty of Computer Science continue to be in high demand. Each year, around 1,000 students choose to study at the faculty. The need for qualified professionals remains high—even as job profiles and fields of activity evolve in the wake of technological advancements.

At the same time, the faculty is working on the technologies of tomorrow. Research priorities such as neuro-symbolic artificial intelligence, edge computing, and other innovative approaches are helping to actively shape the digital transformation.

For the faculty, one thing is clear: Artificial Intelligence is a powerful tool—not a substitute for solid computer science skills. For this reason, AI content is increasingly being integrated into degree programs to prepare students as effectively as possible for the demands of a changing professional world.

We would like to thank Prof. Dr. Hannes Rothe for his insightful analysis and are pleased that the Faculty of Computer Science at the University of Duisburg-Essen was able to contribute its expertise to the public discourse surrounding artificial intelligence.

Click here for the WDR report (starting at minute 18:07): https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/lokalzeit-ruhr/wdr-lokalzeit-ruhr-oder-01-06-2026/wdr-essen/Y3JpZDovL3dkci5kZS9CZWl0cmFnLXNvcGhvcmEtY2ExZWY3ZDEtZmU3OC00M2E0LWJjYzctZTg5MzdjOTEwZWZj