Università degli Studi di Perugia

Degree course in Computer science [LM-18] D. M. 270/2004

General information

Qualification awarded

Master’s degree in Computer Science

Level of qualification

Second cycle

Specific admission requirements and specific arrangements for recognition of prior learning

To access the Master’s degree in Computer Science, students must have obtained a three-year degree or an academic qualification obtained abroad and recognized as valid. In particular, those admitted to the Master’s Degree in Computer Science are graduates who have obtained the qualification in a degree course belonging to the Faculty of Sciences and the Faculty of Engineering and in similar degree courses, whose curriculum studies include, as a minimum requirement:

- Knowledge and basic computer skills (for at least 45 ECTS credits) of: programming methodologies and programming languages​​, architectures of computer systems and communication networks, operating systems, algorithms and data structures, management systems of databases;

- Knowledge and understanding of the principles and basic languages ​​of the scientific method and in particular the basics of both discrete and continuum mathematics (for at least 24 ECTS credits).

Admission is automatic for those who have a Bachelor's degree classes 26 and L-31.

Profile of the programme

The Master’s Degree course in Computer Science forms graduates with an in-depth, specific preparation in the field of computer science. It provides training for graduates with a thorough and specific grounding in computer science. Therefore, in accordance with the guidelines of the National Association (GRIN) and international (ACM) in the sector, the educational programme aims to provide students with sound theoretical, methodological and technological knowledge in all key areas of information already present in the first cycle.

Qualification requirements and regulations

The degree in SAA has a duration of 2 years, during which time the student must acquire 120 ECTS credits. Formative activities are organized on a six-monthly basis and provide a theoretical and practical teaching, with lectures, lessons and laboratory exercises, individual and group projects.

In the second year elective formative activities (for 12 credits) are scheduled, which aim to facilitate insertion into the labour market and prepare for the final exam (for 21 credits).

Key learning outcomes

Graduates have theoretical methodological and technological knowledge in all disciplines that constitute the cultural elements of computer science, indicated by national and international associations of the sector and have an adequate command of the mathematical tools needed for formal modelling and the analysis, evaluation, optimization and development of computer systems. They have the ability to understand the state of the art and the scientific literature of reference. Graduates will acquire the knowledge and understanding described above through participation in lectures and tutorials, home study and individual study as required by individual learning activities in the context of specific disciplinary core and non-departmental complementary sectors.

Graduates will have the ability to use and manage complex information systems, having an accurate understanding of the technologies involved and their implications, to address and analyze problems and develop computer systems, contribute to the advancement of science and technology by offering software products or innovative solutions to computer problems (skills). The skills listed above are acquired during core activities through the critical study of texts proposed for individual study, stimulated by classroom activities, research case studies and applications discussed by professors, practical exercises, individual and / or group projects and the preparation of the final examination, where there will be an assessment of the student’s ability to apply knowledge and skills to set up self-employment of a theoretical or applicative nature.

As a result of the learning process, graduates possess the ability to analyze and summarize (in general), have an overview of disciplines and computer technologies that allow their integration in the management of complex problems, have methodological tools that help find solutions even in the presence of non-standard or perfectly outlined situations, or in the presence of large,  multidisciplinary contexts, know the functional, social and ethical implications of technology which enable them to take responsibility for choices in terms of design or for the management of facilities (independent judgment). The exercises and laboratory work, as well as individual and group projects and the final examination offer students the opportunity to independently develop their own decision-making skills and judgment.

Finally Graduates know how to present materials and scientific topics orally or in writing with a good command of disciplinary terminology, have the ability to interact with interested parties in order to grasp the requirements of a problem and present the results of the analysis of the problem and identify solutions, have a good ability to work in a group (ability to communicate). Written and oral communication skills are developed during the learning activities, which require the preparation of written reports and documents, participation in working groups for the implementation of projects, the oral presentation of them, as well as through the preparation of the final examination and its discussion.

Examination regulations, assessment and grading

Individual examinations are held orally before a Board of at least two professors. Other possible methods of assessment (eg written or final examinations, ongoing assessment, seminar presentations) will appear in the descriptions of each course. The exams for individual courses are evaluated on a scale of thirty, and where appropriate, with honours. The final mark is based on the results of each course and the final examination involving the submission in writing of a research work and its discussion in a graduation session before a Board of at least 7 professors and is expressed on a scale of 110 and, where appropriate, with honours.

Graduation requirements

The final qualification is obtained upon achievement of 120 ECTS credits and approval of a written paper.

Mode of study (full-time, part-time, e-learning, ...)

Full time study and attendance is recommended. However, part-time study is possible: attendance is not compulsory and students can sit exams according to their rhythm and needs.

Occupational profiles of graduates with examples

Occupational and professional opportunities can be found in the analysis and formalization of complex problems, planning, organization, management and development of highly complex information systems, quality and innovation. The employment sectors could regard companies, services, environment, health, cultural heritage and public administration.

Access to further studies

The Postgraduate student may proceed his/her studies with a Research Doctorate or 2nd-level Vocational Master.

Programme director or equivalent

Tabella riepilogativa regolamento

General (Regulations 2013)