M.Sc. Computer Science
The M.Sc. in Computer Science at Reykjavik University is designed to provide students with the flexibility to customize their learning experience according to their interests and career goals. Our program has a successful track record of producing graduates who have published their research work globally.
Overview
Level: Graduate
Credits: 120 ECTS
Language of instruction: English
Duration: Two years, full-time.
Start date: August/ January
Program leader: Dr. Grischa Liebel
Our program allows you to tailor your studies according to your interests and career goals. With only two mandatory courses, you can delve deeply into the area of computer science that fascinates you.
Potential study directions
- Artificial intelligence
- Video games, virtual agents and worlds
- Concurrency theory and structural operational semantics
- Databases with an emphasis on multimedia data
- Language technology
Emphasis lines
We offer our students the option to specialize in Artificial Intelligence or Cybersecurity.
Highlights
- Small class sizes and close interaction between students and faculty.
- Students can work on cutting-edge research within one of our research centers, for example on Artificial Intelligence, Theoretical Computer Science, Language Technology and Software systems.
Structure
The Master's programme in Computer Science is designed to be completed over two years and offers two distinct study routes: course-based and research-based. For more details, please refer to the module handbook.
Course-based route:
The course-based program requires students to complete three terms of coursework and a thesis in the final term. To graduate, students must complete 90 ECTS of coursework and 30 ECTS of project work, which can be done individually or as part of a group.
Research-based route:
The research-based program involves two semesters of coursework and a year of research. Students must complete 60 ECTS credits of coursework and 60 ECTS credits for an individual research thesis supervised by a faculty member.
For further information, see the rules for the graduate studies
Modules
Mandatory modules - course & research-based routes
- T-701-REM4 Research Methodology 8 ECTS
- T-519-STOR Theory of Computation 6 ECTS (if not already completed at undergraduate level)
- T-740 SPMM Software Project Management 8 ECTS
Students may take course credits in undergraduate courses or courses outside of The School of Computer Science or The School of Science and Engineering if the following conditions are satisfied:
Undergraduate courses must be advanced courses, which do not overlap with courses that students have completed before. The list of acceptable courses is posted before each semester.
Artificial Intelligence (AIEMP)
In the Artificial Intelligence (AI) emphasis line (AIEMP) in the MSc in Computer Science program at Reykjavik University (RU) students take core courses and choose from restricted electives in computer science, data science, digital health and artificial intelligence.
AI is a field of research and development (R&D) that focuses on creating machines capable of tasks that otherwise would call for human intelligence. The goal of AIEMP is to provide students with cutting-edge knowledge of both theoretical and practical aspects of R&D and AI, give them experience in state-of-the-art systems, and supply sufficient training in designing and creating such systems to allow them to develop the next generation of technologies, services, and products. Through an optional internship at one of RU's collaborators, students can experience the use of AI in real-world IT projects. An M.Sc. thesis project gives students a chance to directly contribute to AI research by developing novel AI techniques and applying existing AI methods to new problems.
- Admission requirements: BSc degree in Computer Science or related field with excellent grades
- The MSc project or thesis needs to be related to AI.
- Degree: MSc in Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence emphasis
MSc in Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence emphasis |
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| Mandatory courses |
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| AI-related electives At least 1/3, of course, credits need to be from AI-related courses (20 ECTS for the research-based track and 30 ECTS for the course-based track). |
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Cybersecurity (SEC)
M.Sc. in Computer Science with an emphasis in Cybersecurity
Jointly with HI we offer an emphasis line in Cybersecurity, expected to become a full M.Sc. within two years. The Cybersecurity M.Sc. offers a practically based education in the challenges of modern Cybersecurity, with unique courses in Cyber Defense, Machine Learning, Ethical Hacking and Applied Cryptography.
Students will gain a strong foundation in the practical and theoretical skills needed to defend networks, computers, applications and organizations from cyber-crime or state-level sponsored attacks. Courses will be practically oriented, using our laboratory facilities which will expose you to real-world scenarios and practical experience with security issues.
To graduate with the emphasis line in cybersecurity, students must complete a research thesis on a relevant cybersecurity topic, either for 30 ECTS or 60 ECTS.
Cybersecurity courses at RU
- T-742-CSDA Computer Security: Defense Against the Dark Arts 8 ECTS
- T-710-MLCS Machine Learning in Cybersecurity 8 ECTS
- T-748-REMA Reverse Engineering and Malware Analysis 6 ECTS
- T-737-TDAC Emerging Topics in Digital Health, AI, and Cybersecurity 6ECTS
- T-777-BLMR Exploration of ethical issues in emerging technology through the lens of Black Mirror 6 ECTS
Cybersecurity courses at the University of Iceland
- TÖL605M Fundamentals of Ethical Hacking
- TÖL213M Applied Cryptography
- TÖL212F Governance of the Internet
- TÖL113F Quantum cryptography
Software Engineering
MSc Computer Science with Software Engineering Emphasis
Course Credit Requirements
To ensure a robust grounding in Software Engineering, students are required to earn at least one-third of their total course credits from specialized Software Engineering courses. The credit requirements vary depending on the chosen academic path within the MSc program:
Research-based Track (60 ECTS thesis): A minimum of 20 ECTS must be obtained from Software Engineering courses.
Course-based Track (30 ECTS thesis): A minimum of 30 ECTS must be obtained from Software Engineering courses.
Mandatory Software Engineering Courses (16 ECTS)
Students are required to complete the following courses to build core competencies in Software Engineering:
T-707-MOVE Modelling and Verification 8 ECTS (Spring)
T-741-ERSE Empirical Research in Software Engineering, Information Systems, and Human-Computer Interaction 8 ECTS (Spring)
Elective Courses in Software Engineering
To fulfill the remaining Software Engineering course ECTS requirements, students may choose from the following elective courses:
T-733-ICAP Introduction to Computer-Assisted Proof 6 ECTS (3-week course)
T-533-VIHU Software Maintenance (BSc Advanced, Spring):
T-631-SOE2 Software Engineering II (BSc Advanced):
T-764-DATA Big Data Management (Spring 2025):
T-749-INDS Independent Study Focused on Software Engineering (Spring/Fall, up to 16 ECTS):
T-742-CSDA Computer Security: Defense Against the Dark Arts (Spring)
T-603-THYD Compilers 6 ECTS
Thesis Requirement - Software Engineering Focus
To graduate with an emphasis in Software Engineering, students must complete a research thesis on a topic relevant to Software Engineering. The thesis can be pursued either for 30 ECTS or 60 ECTS, based on the student's selection.
Double Degree
Double Degree with the University of Camerino
The Department of Computer Science at RU and the Faculty of Science and Technology of the University of Camerino (UNICAM) offer a two-year Double Degree Programme in Computer Science.
Upon successful completion of the Double Degree Programme students are awarded with the following titles:
- Master in Computer Science (MSc) from the Department of Computer Science at Reykjavik University.
- Laurea Specialistica/Magistrale in Informatica (Master in Computer Science) from the Faculty of Science and Technology of UNICAM.
The University of Camerino - UNICAM
Camerino is a historic hill-top town in the Apennine mountains located 200 kilometres northeast of Rome, midway between Ancona and Perugia. The University of Camerino was established in 1336 and thus has over six and a half centuries of history.
Today more than 10,000 students attend the University distributed throughout its 5 faculties (Architecture, Pharmacy, Law, Veterinary Medicine, Science and Technology). There are 297 teachers (1 teacher for every 34 students) and 312 technical-administrative clerks.
UNICAM has an important tradition in didactics and in scientific research: there are numerous and innovative degrees being offered in the different faculties including Masters degrees, and many of its professors have received prestigious national and international recognition.
Nordic Master in Intelligent Software Systems
Nordic Master in Intelligent Software Systems
Students enrolled in the MSc programme in Computer Science and the MSc programme in Software Engineering have the opportunity to earn a "Nordic Master in Intelligent Software Systems" degree, a double degree with Mälardalen University and Åbo Akademi University. The programme involves a term or a year at a guest university and includes financial support during the stay abroad. See more info at: www.nordicmaster-niss.org/ for details.
The application deadline is April 1, please apply online at www.nordicmaster-niss.org/admissions
Admission
Admission requirements
- A Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science or a closely related field.
For those in the final year of study, satisfactory completion of the degree will be a condition for entry.
Entry requirements for applicants with a non-CS background
Applicants with a background in a related field but without a formal degree in computer science may still be eligible for our MSc in Computer Science program, provided they have completed certain foundational courses at the undergraduate level. Below is an outline of the necessary courses:
Programming foundation 24 ECTS required
Applicants must demonstrate substantial coursework in programming, including foundational topics such as: Basic programming concepts, data structures, algorithms.
Systems Knowledge 18 ECTS required
Applicants should have completed courses covering key system-related topics. A selection of three out of the following areas is necessary: Computer architecture, operating systems, computer networks, databases.
Mathematical Foundation 18 ECTS required
A strong mathematical background is essential covering the following areas: Discrete mathematics,calculus , linear algebra, probability & statistics.
Software Development 18 ECTS required*
Relevant courses with a focus on developing software, e.g., subjects such as: Project-based courses (e.g., final year projects), software engineering
*Work experience can be considered as an alternative.
Additional Notes for Applicants Missing Prerequisites:
Candidates who are missing three to four required courses may still apply. Accepted students will have the opportunity to complete these prerequisites at the bachelor's level before formally starting the MSc program.
English language requirements
For students whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency must be provided.
- Minimum English language scores: TOEFL: 577 (PBT) or above OR IELTS: 6.5 or above.
Exemptions from English language requirements.
- Students who have completed one year of university level education and the medium of instruction was English, do not need to submit English language test scores.
- Native English speakers, (Australia, Great Britain, Ireland, New Zealand, USA)
- Countries exempted from English skills requirements: Due to equal national admission requirements for universities in countries as in Iceland: Finland, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Denmark
Supporting documents
- CV/resume
- Official university transcript/s
You should submit a detailed record of your higher education up to the present, including programmes of study taken and grades achieved. If you have not yet completed your undergraduate degree, you should provide an official interim transcript detailing grades achieved to date. - English language test score certificate (non-native speakers only)
You should upload a scanned copy of the original English language test certificate. If you do not have test results at the time of applying, you should submit your application without these scores and send them to us separately once available. - Language test waiver (if required)
The requirement to provide English proficiency scores may be waived in cases where you have successfully completed, or are currently completing, a full-time degree-level course of a minimum of nine months at a recognized institution where the medium of instruction and assessment is entirely in English. If you wish to apply for a waiver of the English language test requirement, you will need to upload a letter with your application outlining the reasons why you should be exempted.
- Letter of motivation (approx. 300 words)
Should include reasoning for pursuing graduate work and academic goals. - Two academic references
You should select two referees who can provide an informed view of your academic or professional ability and suitability for your chosen programme of study. The letters of recommendation should be sent directly to td@ru.is
Apply
Contact us
For any inquiries regarding the courses provided by the School of Computer Science at Reykjavik University, please do not hesitate to contact us at td@ru.is.
