MSc in Computer Science: Advanced Computing and Systems

Leiden University

The master’s specialisation Advanced Computing and Systems offers future-oriented topics in computer science with a focus on high performance computing, embedded systems, cloud and distributed computing.

What does this master’s programme entail?

This specialisation focuses on the computer systems of tomorrow. These include the driver of the internet of things, such as high performance computers capable of simultaneously processing huge volumes of data, cloud computing and large database systems satisfying today’s demands on data analysis more than the more conventional transactions do, and embedded systems in which sensors and processors are integrated, making them ‘smart’ and sensitive to the change of the environment.

Why study Advanced Computing and Systems at Leiden University?

• The main focus is on computing systems, which represents the unique expertise one of the research groups of Leiden University. The strength of the programme is the individual possibility for each student of studying other future-oriented topics in Foundations of Computing, Artificial Intelligence and Data Science.
• The programme provides you with a thorough computer science background that will allow you to pursue careers in research or industrial environments.

Advanced Computing and Systems: the right master’s programme for you?

Do you want to contribute to the development of novel computing systems for tomorrow’s requirements? Do you like to program high performance computers, develop new data base and embedded systems, or build multimedia systems? Then the master’s specialisation in Advanced Computing and Systems is the right choice.

Programme overview

The curriculum of the Advanced Computing and Systems specialisation consists of:

• Core programme (36 EC)
• Specialisation courses and seminars (42 EC)
• Master's Thesis Research Project (42 EC)

Educational methods

• Computer lab
• Assignment
• Individual research paper
• Literature study
• Presentations
• Lectures
• Working group
• Master's Thesis Research Project

Career prospects

With an MSc in Computer Science you are well prepared for broad array of career prospects in research or industry. The master’s degree is an excellent stepping stone for pursuing a PhD degree.

With a Leiden degree in Computer Science you will have cultivated an analytical mind and a problem-solving attitude. Based on these qualities, you enjoy a wide variety of career opportunities, in research as well in commercial or industrial environments.

Career

Your job perspectives with a master's degree in Computer Science are excellent and diverse. They range from software engineer to product manager, from researcher to IT-manager, and from engineering to financial applications, from business intelligence specialist to service manager or consultant. And the demand is constantly growing. With this education, 96.9% of all graduates have a full-time job, and they find a job within an average time of 1.3 months.