Program Overview

Program Overview

The Fine-tuning Large Language Models (LLM) course is offered by Tampere University. This course provides a detailed exploration into the practical application, ethical considerations, and open-source landscape of fine-tuning large language models (LLMs) for students with basic programming skills.

Course Description

Beginning with foundational data management techniques, the curriculum emphasizes the critical role of high-quality, privacy-conscious dataset preparation, specifically tailored to enhance open-source LLMs. Through detailed instruction on the architecture and functionality of these models, students will gain insight into the vast potential and challenges of working with open-source AI technologies. Throughout the course, participants will engage in practical exercises and projects that apply fine-tuning techniques to open-source LLMs, emphasizing the creation of AI systems that are not only technologically advanced but also ethically sound, transparent, and secure.

Course Details

• Course Code: COMP.CS.530
• Language of Instruction: English
• Academic Years: 20242025, 20252026, 20262027
• Level of Study: Advanced studies
• Grading Scale: General scale, 0-5
• Responsible Person: Pekka Abrahamsson
• Responsible Organization: Faculty of Information Technology and Communication, 100%
• Organizing Organization: School of Computer Science, 100%

Assessment

The course offers two assessment methods:

1. Completing Core Modules and Practical Labs: 5 ECTS for completing core modules and practical labs.
2. In-depth Project: An optional additional 5 ECTS for an in-depth project focused on applying trustworthiness principles in LLM fine-tuning, totaling 10 ECTS.

Teaching Periods

The course is active in periods III (1.1.20261.3.2026) and IV (2.3.202631.5.2026).

Independent Work

An independent project is part of the course, scheduled from 18.02.2026 to 31.03.2026.

Open University

The course is also available in the Open University.