Computer Science focuses on the study of the scientific foundations for information, computation, and communication, and on the practical techniques for implementing them in computer systems. This is a very broad area of science spanning from the theory of computing, through programming, to cutting-edge development of computing solutions for large distributed systems, including cloud-based systems. Computer Science offers a solid foundation enabling graduates to adapt quickly to new ideas, new technologies, and to multidisciplinary fields. Traditional subfields of Computer Science are algorithmics, computability, software development and verification, programming language theory, computer graphics, databases, compilers, and others.

During the programme the students acquire the following skills depending on the modules they choose in their studies:

· Understanding the scientific principles of computers and software technology and being able to apply them to a multitude of problem domains;

· A thorough understanding of the software development process, including design, implementation, documentation, and verification;

· Developing analytical skills regarding the architecture, quality, trust­worthiness, and reliability of computer systems;

· Obtaining skills in the design of distributed systems and high-performance applications;

· Getting familiar with advanced computational techniques in biology;

· Developing good communication and team-work skills;

· Obtaining knowledge and competence for a career in the software industry, in high-performance computing and in the computational biotechnology industry.

Successful completion of this two-year full-time programme results in the award of a Master of Science degree (filosofie magister). The programme gives a broad basis across different areas of Computer Science. It provides the students with the necessary knowledge and skills for a wide variety of careers within the software industry, in high-performance computing, and in computational biotechnology. It also provides the required background for doctoral research in Computer Science.

Study Environment

The Master Programme in Computer Science is offered by the Department of Information Technologies at Åbo Akademi University. The department provides education in Computer Science, Computer Engineering and Information Systems, at the Bachelors, Masters and doctoral levels. The department is located in the Turku Science Park area, in the ICT-House, where research groups and academic programmes meet, interact and collaborate with ICT companies. The study facilities are brand-new and equipped with the latest technology.

Admission requirements

Applicants should already have completed a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or in a closely related field. They should also have completed at least 25 credits of courses in Mathematics as part of their Bachelors degree studies. Eligible applicants are selected on the basis of how well their Bachelor's degree corresponds to the programme and on the study merits of the student.

Applicants must always prove their knowledge of the English language. For more detailed information on admission requirements.

No entrance examination. Admission is granted on the basis of the application.