Program Overview

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Introduction to the Master's Program

The Master in Innovation and Research in Informatics (MIRI) with a specialization in Computer Graphics and Virtual Reality is designed to expose students to in-depth, state-of-the-art computer graphics, focusing on knowledge of technology, efficient algorithm design, and the solution of real-life problems.

Presentation

About

The goal of the master's degree is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of computer graphics, including the design of efficient algorithms and the solution of real-life problems. The program addresses new challenges in building digital models and interactive renderings using commodity hardware and mobile devices, with applications in fields such as industrial design, cultural heritage, medicine, urban design, and animation.

Target

Students are expected to have a bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or related fields. Candidates with weak computer programming skills will also be considered but may be required to take complementary courses.

Language

The program is taught in English.

Duration

The program lasts for four semesters (120 ECTS) and is offered in a face-to-face format.

Workload

The full-time workload consists of 20 hours of lectures and 20 hours of personal work per week. Part-time students will have half of the full-time workload. Lectures are scheduled in the morning (8h-14h).

Fees

The official master's degrees fees apply, and there are grants available for students.

Curriculum

The curriculum includes the following courses:

Semester 1

• Algorithmic Methods for Mathematical Models (AMMM - 6 ECTS)
• Concurrence, Parallelism, and Distributed Systems (CPDS - 6 ECTS)
• Geometric Tools for Computer Graphics (GTCG - 6 ECTS)
• Statistical Modelling and Design of Experiments (SMDE - 6 ECTS)
• Virtual and Augmented Reality (VAR - 6 ECTS)
• Seminar activities

Semester 2

• Advanced 3D Modelling (A3DM - 6 ECTS)
• Fast Realistic Rendering (FRR - 6 ECTS)
• Techniques and Methodology of Innovation and Research in Informatics (TMIRI - 6 ECTS)
• Scalable Rendering for Graphics and Game Engines (SRGGE - 6 ECTS)
• Seminar activities

Semester 3

• Computer Animation (CA - 6 ECTS)
• Geometry Processing (GPR - 6 ECTS)
• Scientific Visualization (SV - 6 ECTS)
• Elective
• Elective
• Seminar activities

Semester 4

• Master's Thesis (TFM - 30 ECTS)
• Seminar activities

Seminar activities

The activities to obtain the SIRI credits can be done in any semester of the master's degree.

Elective

• Interdisciplinary Innovation Project (I2P - 6 ECTS)
• Viability of Business Projects (VBP - 6 ECTS)
• Recognize credits for "External Practices" or "Laboral and Professional Experience"
• Take courses from other MIRI specialties
• Take courses from other masters at the UPC

Employment Opportunities

Students of the master's degree will develop expertise in modeling and treating geometric and volumetric data, as well as knowledge of the management, manipulation, interaction, and rendering of highly complex geometric systems. The program incorporates the latest advances in 3D computer graphics modeling, crowd simulation, real-time rendering, and animation. Upon completion, graduates will possess the necessary skills to join leading international corporations, create start-ups, or enroll in doctoral programs in any computer graphics field.

Admission

Calendar

The admission period for the Master program starting in February 2026 is open from 6 October to 30 November 2025.

Requirements

• UPC's official master's degrees requirements apply.
• Candidates must provide proof of English proficiency with at least a B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

Required Documents

1. Curriculum Vitae
2. DNI, NIE, or passport
3. Academic Personal Certificate
4. Diploma (or similar document)
5. English knowledge certificate (minimum B2)
6. If the applicant holds other qualifications related to the subject area, include the original certificates and copy.
7. If the degree was obtained in a foreign country, an official statement of equivalence of the average grade obtained.

Selection Criteria

The Academic Committee makes admission decisions based on:

• Academic Information (50%)
• Background and professional experience (40%)
• Motivation (10%)

Faculty

Professor in Charge

• Pelechano Gomez, Nuria

Professors of Specialization

• Andujar Gran, Carlos
• Argudo Medrano, Oscar
• Beacco Porres, Alejandro
• Chica Calaf, Antonio
• Fairen Gonzalez, Marta
• Klute, Fabian Maximilian
• Mora Giné, Mercè
• Muñoz Pandiella, Imanol
• Pelechano Gomez, Nuria
• Silveira, Rodrigo Ignacio
• Susin Sanchez, Antonio
• Vázquez Alcocer, Pere Pau
• Vinacua Pla, Alvaro

Professors

A list of professors is provided, including their names and areas of expertise.

Research Groups Linked to This Master

• ViRVIG - Visualització, Realitat Virtual i Interacció Gràfica

Double Degree

Information about double degree programs is available.

What's MIRI

MIRI stands for Master in Innovation and Research in Informatics, identifying programs with a special focus on research and innovation. Graduates become knowledgeable and skilled professionals in their respective areas. The four MIRI programs are:

• Advanced Computing
• Computer Graphics and Virtual Reality
• Computer Networks and Distributed Systems
• High Performance Computing

Student Testimonials

Testimonials from students who have completed the program are provided, highlighting their positive experiences and the benefits of the program.