We live in a digital world. Computers and software play a central role in society: in companies, in education and research, and in our daily lives. Year after year, our daily activities become more connected with the digital dimension. In this context, the Department of Computer Science steers the most novel evolutions and develops the technology required for the next generation of applications.

About this programme:

The Master of Computer Science will teach you how to lead advanced software projects with as main aspects the specifications, the design, the implementation, the testing and the maintenance of software systems. You will learn to analyse complex problems in a structured way, and to model and reason about them at different levels of abstraction. Furthermore, you will receive training in the necessary, transferable skills to tackle complex research questions, formulate your own research goals, and successfully achieve them, as well as tools for achieving effective communication; stimulating a broad societal view on the relevance of computer science and technology today.

To acquire knowledge and understanding of a formal disciplined approach to computer science, the programme includes a range of relevant concepts, tools and techniques, such as algorithms, programming language concepts, programming skills, software design patterns, software development methods, and software architectures. The programme also includes the theoretical principles underpinning these topics. This is a solid basis to cope with future developments in computer science.

Programme strenghts:

• The programme, courses, and areas of specialisation are strongly linked to the research groups, guaranteeing state-of-the-art education in the field of computer science.

• A significant number of courses are focused on industry-relevant skills and content. The high volume of industry-related research projects in the Department of Computer Science allows us to include relevant content in our courses. 

• Students are also encouraged to carry out an industrial and research internship abroad under the supervision of the Internship Coordinator.

Programme Master of Engineering: Computer Science

The programme is structured around a mandatory core (48 credits), which includes courses on software development, software architecture, programming, modelling languages, machine learning, and theoretical foundations. 

Students then opt for one of two advanced specialisation areas: software security or artificial intelligence. In both specialisations you will conduct your own research and develop novel technology, guided by top experts in the international research community.

The master’s thesis covers 24 credits and is started at the outset of the second stage. General education courses (8-10 credits) cover a wide variety of topics such as advanced language courses, economy, law and advanced mathematics courses.

Student exchange:

The Faculty of Engineering Science at KU Leuven is involved in several Erasmus exchange programmes. For the Master of Engineering in Computer Science, this means that you can complete one or two semesters abroad, at a number of selected universities.

Career perspectives:

As a Master of Computer Science alumnus/-a, a very wide range of professional opportunities opens up for you, both quantitatively and broadly. You will use your expert domain knowledge to find creative solutions for new problems in the context of fast changing environments. As an engineer you are very appreciated because of your adaptability and your ability to assimilate new knowledge areas and emerging technologies.

Software engineers can be found in nearly all sectors of society. Software is a crucial component in all industrial processes, in the service and entertainment industry, and in our society as a whole. Masters of Computer Science are active in the software-development industry as well as in telecommunication and other industries. Many of our graduates work in hospitals, in the banking sector, in social organisations, and for the government as heads of ICT.