4 European universities providing the algorithms for success

Ever wanted to start an app? Or wondered how self-driving cars work? Computer science could be the path for you. Every business in every industry is currently using data and computer technology on a daily basis –– from finance and banking to agriculture, gaming, and healthcare. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in computer and information technology occupations will grow 11% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. 

In terms of job opportunities, the boom in tech companies around the globe spells opportunities for individuals with advanced computer science degrees. It’s a qualification the opens up many and various career paths, whether it’s working with some of the world’s leading IT companies — such as Accenture, Barclays Capital, and Credit Suisse — starting one’s own or realising their startup dreams. Some may even choose to do their PhD to engage in research.

So where should you go? With over 128,000 startups, the tripling of AI startups in the past three years, US$23 billion investment in 2019 – an increase of 360% over the last five years –– these numbers and more make Europe the ideal destination for aspiring computer scientists looking to gain inspiration and make waves in the industry. If you’re sold on the idea, here are four institutions that should be at the top of your list:

Università della Calabria

Source: Università della Calabria

Also known as the University of Calabria, this institution –– just 15 minutes away from the Tyrrhenian sea, and 20 from the Sila mountains –– is known as one of Italy’s most important and dynamic. Its campus is the largest and best equipped in the country, situated on over 200 hectares among the hills of the Crati river Valley, in the urban area of Cosenza and Rende. This is where learning experience transforms into both professional and personal development.

UniCal is just as welcoming as it is excellent. Its international campus is currently home to over 950 students from over 80 countries. Last year, some of these students took shelter on campus, while others across Italy were forced to return to their home countries.

Amongst its extensive lineup, the university offers a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science which trains aspiring professionals to drive the ICT market forward with AI methods and tools. Then, there’s the Master’s Degree in Telecommunications Engineering which prepares the next generation of designers, developers and managers for IoT systems.

When it comes to MSc-level degrees taught in English, the grand total comes up to 12. UniCal also offers programmes in advanced solid mechanics, environmental and territorial safety engineering, robotics and automation engineering, telecommunication engineering, finance and insurance, health biotechnology, nutritional sciences, chemistry, mathematics, and physics.

Regardless of a student’s goals or interests, this university truly has something for everyone. UniCal offers 80 degree courses in its 14 departments, 21 double-degree programmes with international universities, 10 PhD courses, 120 research laboratories, and plenty more that are currently being enjoyed by a vibrant student body of 24,500. Behind its tangerine walls, passions are inspired, and ambitions come to life. Ready to discover yours? Click here to learn more.

University of Northampton

Source: University of Northampton

One of the few universities in the world to be ranked Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), the University of Northampton strives to share knowledge, support creativity, and ultimately make a positive difference. It may be one of the youngest universities in the UK, but it has already established itself as a leader. The university has won multiple awards for adding value to society, making it an ideal choice for students who wish to make their mark on the world too. 

Source: University of Northampton

Its Computing MSc teaches the art of computing at a greater depth than most. Here, students develop their research and analytical skills enough to excel in an individual thesis that will investigate the areas they are most passionate about. The course also comes with an industry placement option that can be used to further apply newly-honed skills. 

The programme can be conducted in one of two ways. The general pathway gives learners a rounded computing education and a broad qualification. Whereas, the specialist pathways focus on a defined section of computing –– for those that wish to fast-track their career aspirations. Either choice consists of six modules that culminate to a dissertation. 

Malmö University

Source: Malmö University

Offering research-related programmes at both bachelor’s and master’s level, the Department of Computer Science and Media Technology at Malmö University motivates students to progress in all areas of the discipline. Social media, mobile applications, digital games, strategic management, artificial intelligence, information architecture and digital media are a handful of application areas that students and professors pursue in this department.

Source: Malmö University

A branch of the Malmö Faculty of Technology and Society, courses are based on the expansive Niagara building at Universitetsholmen, just a stone’s throw from Malmö Central Station. The one-year Computer Science Master’s programme teaches students about the technologies and concepts essential for the development of modern information systems, which are typically complex and include cooperative components.

Malmö students gain access to many exciting opportunities, such as lucrative careers in the development of complex distributed systems for e-business, e-government, e-health, e-learning, supply chain management, mobile computing and more.

Università della Svizzera Italiana

Source: USI Lugano

Low crime rates, one of the world’s cleanest countries, excellent public transport networks, and a world-class health system — here are some of the reasons Switzerland isn’t only a holiday but also a study destination. Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI) in Lugano, Switzerland is a hub of opportunity open to the world, collaborating with over 2,800 students, as well as 800 professors and researchers from more than 100 countries. 

Source: Università della Svizzera Italiana 

In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2020, USI ranked second for its international outlook. Combining three dynamic destinations, the campuses in Lugano, Lugano 2, Mendrisio and Bellinzona create a fulfilling and insightful study abroad experience for all. 

USI offers a wide array of programmes. Students are provided with an in-depth understanding and a set of skills in computational science, numerical simulation, applied mathematics, statistics, and data science through the Master of Science degree in Computational Science programme. The campus houses lecture rooms, faculty offices, the University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Italian Switzerland (SUPSI), Department of Innovative Technologies and Dalle Molle Institute for Artificial Intelligence (IDSIA). 

*Some of the institutions featured in this article are commercial partners of Study International