MSc in Computer Science

This program is aimed at students with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. You will learn to master the theoretical foundations in this field and apply them in practical applications.

Computer Science is one of the most dynamic and expansive fields of science. In addition to having a deep understanding of the theoretical and technical foundations, professionals in this field must be able to apply the technology to challenging problems and integrate it with other technologies. Applicants should have an adequate background in computer science and good programming skills.

Several elective courses

The first three semesters include not only core courses in theoretical computer science and programming, but also elective courses such as artificial intelligence, databases and data mining, the design and programming of computer games, information security, advanced computer graphics, and human-computer interaction. Most courses feature lectures in theory and techniques, which are applied in practical laboratory work. Some courses also feature projects and seminars.

In the final semester, you write a thesis, either on your own or with a fellow student. The work may be carried out in collaboration with a company, or as a research project with the university.

Five specializations

The program offers five specializations:

• Visualization and Computer Graphics
• Artificial Intelligence and Data Mining
• Computer Networks, Distributed Systems, and Security
• Embedded Systems
• Programming and Software Methods

It is not mandatory to follow a specialization – you may also tailor your own combination of courses, with the full freedom of choice. All specializations are offered in Linköping, except Visualisation and Computer Graphics which is given at Campus Norrköping.

The major computer science center

Linköping University is home to one of the most important centers of computer science and engineering in Northern Europe, renowned for its top-quality research and education. Science Park Mjärdevi, an incubator with 300 knowledge-intensive companies where many of our alumni are employed, is adjacent to the campus.

Syllabus

Purpose

The Master's Programme in Computer Science aims to educate specialists who will be able to work at the forefront of modern software and computer systems technology in a variety of application areas. The program also aims at ensuring that the students are well prepared for a career in research or continued studies towards a doctoral degree.

Computer science is one of the most dynamic and expansive fields of science. For the individual scholar or the professional in the field this means that as well as having a good understanding of the theoretical and technical foundations of the field, one needs to be able to apply the technology to new challenging problems and integrate it with other technologies.

Aim

The Master's Programme in Computer Science offers the opportunity for advanced study in computer science and engineering and allows for flexible planning of specialization areas. Having covered core computer science courses, the students will be able to focus their studies on areas such as artificial intelligence, databases and data-mining, internet computing, embedded systems, information security, design, and programming computer games, language technology, human-computer interaction, theoretical computer science or design and implementation of computer languages.

The following learning outcomes will serve as measurable goals towards the implementation of the general aim of the program. These objectives are formulated in terms of the capacities competencies of the students who successfully complete the program.

• A Computer Science master will be able to understand and apply mathematical concepts that are necessary for modeling various kinds of computational problems. He/She will have an understanding of both software and hardware issues.
• A Computer Science master will be a competent programmer who is familiar with a variety of programming languages and tools and is able to creatively apply his/her knowledge and skills to modeling and developing software solutions that contribute towards applications in a wide variety of application domains.
• The Computer Science master will be able to work as a team member and effectively cooperate with other specialists and contribute towards the solution of complex technical problems.
• The Computer Science master will be qualified to take a leading role in a software design and development team, evaluate and compare solutions, and decisions making. He/She will be able to further deepen his/her knowledge and contribute to the development of the area.
• The Computer Science master will be a good communicator who will be able to present coherent technical and scientific results both orally and in writing.
• Students who successfully complete the program will have a good understanding of the impact of computers in society, ethical issues relevant to the field, as well as the responsibilities of computer science professionals.
• Although computer science enjoys a relatively stable scientific foundation, the field is still dynamic and expansive. An important aspect of educational programs in the field is to prepare the students for lifelong learning in the field.

Research

Department of Computer and Information Science

Research at IDA covers a broad spectrum of topics from core computer science to applications. Our broad research base directly enriches our undergraduate and graduate education.