Program Overview

Introduction to the Computer Science Master's Program

The Computer Science Master's program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in computer science, preparing them for careers in the field. The program is led by top-level academics and researchers with international teaching experience.

Admission

International students can apply to the Computer Science Master's program from January 2 to March 15, 2026, using DreamApply. Estonian applicants can apply from February 1 to March 15, 2026, using the National Admission Information Systems (SAIS).

Studying

The curriculum consists of several modules:

• A core module where students acquire basic skills in computer science (24 ECTS)
• A specialisation module where students choose one of three specialisations (24 ECTS)
• A Master's seminar module (6 ECTS)
• An electives module (12 ECTS)
• A practice module (18 ECTS)
• Optional courses from UT or other universities (6 ECTS)
• A Master's thesis (30 ECTS)

Core Module

The core module consists of four 6 ECTS courses:

• Algorithmics
• Design and Analysis of Algorithms
• Distributed Systems
• Machine Learning

Specialisation Module

Students can choose from three specialisations:

• Cryptography and Security (includes tracks in Cryptography, Coding Theory, Quantum Computing)
• Distributed Systems (includes High Performance Computing, Mobile and Cloud Computing, Intelligent Transportation Systems)
• Artificial Intelligence (includes Big Data Management, Bioinformatics, Computational Neuroscience, Natural Language Processing, Fuzzy Logic and Soft Computing)

Electives Module

Students can choose additional courses worth 12 ECTS from the list of courses taught at the master's level by the Institute of Computer Science.

Practice Module

Students can choose 18 ECTS worth of courses or projects within the following subjects:

• Didactic Practice (6 ECTS)
• Didactics in Informatics (I and II, 3+3 ECTS)
• Practical Training in Information Technology (12 ECTS)
• Software Entrepreneurship Project (12 ECTS)

Sample Study Plan

The program provides sample study plans for students, which can be individualized based on the chosen specialisation module.

Intersectoral Programme for IT Master's Students

Master's students in Computer Science are invited to apply for the Intersectoral Programme for IT Master's Students, which provides an opportunity to gain real industry experience by collaborating with a company throughout the second year of studies.

Research Areas

The program covers various research areas, including:

• Cryptography and Security
• Distributed Systems
• Artificial Intelligence
• High Performance Computing
• Mobile and Cloud Computing
• Intelligent Transportation Systems
• Big Data Management
• Bioinformatics
• Computational Neuroscience
• Natural Language Processing
• Fuzzy Logic and Soft Computing

Conclusion

The Computer Science Master's program at the University of Tartu provides students with a comprehensive education in computer science, preparing them for careers in the field. The program offers a range of specialisations, research areas, and opportunities for industry collaboration, making it an attractive option for students interested in pursuing a career in computer science.