Software and AI Engineering Master's Programme

Modern society depends on advanced software systems. Software is used to manage everything from electricity grids and communication systems to vehicles, industrial processes, and digital services. At the same time, the way software is developed is changing. Traditional programming is increasingly combined with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), creating new opportunities as well as new challenges.

As systems become more advanced, the demands placed on the engineers who develop them also increase. Knowledge is needed of how software is planned, developed, tested, and maintained, as well as of how AI-based solutions can be integrated safely, reliably, and effectively. Software Engineering focuses on methods and practices for developing high-quality software, while AI Engineering focuses on the development and use of AI- and ML-based systems.

The programme combines human-centered and technology-centered perspectives within Software Engineering and AI Engineering. Its aim is to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills to develop, analyze, and improve modern software systems, and to use new tools, methods, and development practices within the field.

The programme is intended for students who already have a foundation in software development or a related area and who wish to deepen their knowledge of Software Engineering while specializing in AI Engineering.

The programme is offered in close collaboration with research and industry. Courses, projects, and guest lectures give students opportunities to work with current problems and become familiar with recent developments in the field.

A Bachelor's degree of 180 credits in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, Informatics, Computer Engineering, or an equivalent field is required for admission to the programme.

Applicants must also have:

• at least 12 credits in programming,
• at least 12 credits in software engineering or software design,
• at least 6 credits in artificial intelligence or machine learning, and
• at least 6 credits in mathematics

Applicants must also demonstrate knowledge of English equivalent to English 6/English Level 2 from Swedish Upper Secondary School, or an equivalent level demonstrated through an internationally recognized test, such as TOEFL or IELTS.

Upon completion of 120 credits, the student meets the requirements for a Degree of Master of Science (120 credits) with a major in Software Engineering (Filosofie masterexamen med huvudområdet Software Engineering).

The programme comprises 120 credits in Software Engineering and related areas. To meet the degree requirements, at least 90 credits, including a 30-credit independent project (Master's Thesis), must be completed within the main field of Software Engineering.

The remaining courses are selected by the student based on individual interests. These courses may be taken within Software Engineering or in other subject areas relevant to the programme.

The courses build on one another and are recommended to be taken in the intended order. The programme begins with courses that provide a common foundation in Software Engineering and AI Engineering. Students then have opportunities to deepen their knowledge in different parts of the field through elective courses. In this way, students develop an understanding and ability to work with complex software systems.

Teaching takes the form of lectures, seminars, exercises, supervision, and project work in which theory and practice are combined.

The academic year is divided into two semesters and four study periods. Each study period normally comprises 15 credits, and students usually take two courses in parallel.

Local Outcomes

For a Degree of Master (120 credits) with a major in Software Engineering, the student shall:

Knowledge and understanding

• have advanced knowledge of Software Engineering and AI Engineering, including a broad understanding of the field,
• understand the similarities and differences between traditional software and AI-based solutions, including their technical requirements and challenges, and
• have knowledge of research methods used in research and development within Software Engineering and AI Engineering.

Competence and skills

• be able to plan, analyze, develop, test, and improve software systems, both independently and in collaboration with others,
• be able to identify, formulate, and address complex problems within Software Engineering and AI Engineering,
• be able to contribute to research and development within the field,
• be able to analyze and address complex situations, including when the available information is limited,
• be able to design and improve processes for developing AI-based software systems,
• be able to develop, analyze, and critically evaluate technical solutions for software development,
• be able to communicate results, conclusions, and technical reasoning in spoken and written English,
• be able to develop software products, processes, and systems with consideration for user needs and the principles of sustainable development, and
• be able to collaborate and contribute actively in different types of teams and project groups.

Judgement and approach

• be able to make well-founded technical and ethical assessments within both Software Engineering and AI Engineering,
• be able to identify the need for further knowledge and take responsibility for continued professional development, and
• be able to reflect on the possibilities and limitations of research and technology, their importance to society, and the responsibility associated with the development and use of new technology.

The study programme will be followed up and evaluated in accordance with the applicable Policy for the Quality Assurance and Continuous Quality Improvement of Education at the University of Gothenburg (Policy för kvalitetssäkring och kvalitetsutveckling av utbildning vid Göteborgs universitet).

Students who follow the prescribed study programme are guaranteed admission to the programme courses. The programme is subject to limited guaranteed admission, meaning that students are guaranteed a place in the compulsory courses of the programme, provided that the specific entry requirements are fulfilled and that applications are submitted within the prescribed application period. Failure to register within the prescribed registration period may result in the loss of the course place, regardless of guaranteed admission.

For elective courses offered within the programme, admission to a student's first choice course cannot be guaranteed.

For courses taken outside the programme, ordinary admission and selection regulations apply, and no guaranteed admission is provided.

For optional courses outside the study programme local admission regulations are valid and there is no guaranteed admission.