Programme description

MSc programme (Laurea Magistrale) in Informatica - Computer Science

Since 2010 the University of Venice has offered an MSc (Master of Science/Laurea Magistrale) degree in "Informatica - Computer Science" taught in English (LM18 - Informatica) [download flyer].
The MSc programme takes two years of full-time study, covering a wide spectrum of fields in Computer Science and Information Technology. It is suitable for students with diverse academic backgrounds, such as computer science, engineering, statistics, mathematics and related disciplines.

The curriculum
The programme unfolds into three semesters of full-time lectures and lab experience. During the last semester students work on an individual project and dissertation, supervised by a faculty member. The curriculum is organized around two sets of elective courses, from which students have to build their study plan for qualification.
Three study plans, which include specific groups of related elective courses, are suggested:

1. Information Sciences and Intelligent Systems, which covers state-of-the-art techniques in the fields of pattern analysis and data mining, information and knowledge systems, as well as on the various aspects of the design and evaluation of automated intelligent systems.
2. Software Dependability and IT Security, which covers a variety of aspects of software dependability and computer security; it includes workshops on network security, secure programming and software construction to provide the skills required for software development and computer security.
3. Information Systems and Statistical Analysis, which covers various aspects of the design and evaluation of information and knowledge systems, intelligent systems, and data analysis supported by statistical methodologies.

Each student will be tutored by a member of the faculty to create a personalized study plan, which best fits her/his scientific and technological interests, and academic background.

The final project
The final project is the culmination of the programme. The students will work intensively on a topic of her/his choice, while interacting on regular meetings with the project supervisor. The project can consist in the development of innovative software, or the investigation and analysis of existing designs and solutions; the topic can be any area of computer science or statistics. The project will get the student in touch with the most recent and novel research in the field. In several cases these projects lead to a PhD career.

Applying to the programme
To enter the programme applicants need to have an equivalent of a three-year Italian undergraduate degree (Laurea) such as a BSc degree in Computer Science or related subject, with good background on fundamental topics in computer science and engineering, such as programming languages and software engineering, algorithms, computer architecture, operating systems, databases, and computer networks. Further requirements include basic knowledge of calculus, discrete mathematics, and probability and statistics, foundations of computer science.

When and how to apply
The classes start in September. Please beware that it is best to apply as early as possible. Applications are made directly to the University of Venice. For full details visit How to apply, or contact the Head of Study (orlando@dais.unive.it).

Graduate careers
Students graduating from the MSc in Computer Science may use their new computing skills to enhance their employment prospects in work related to their first degree. Graduates interested in foundational, experimental, and applied research, can join our PhD Programme in Computer Science.