MSc Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence

The Master of Science in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence at Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) is a full-time, postgraduate programme designed to prepare students to design, develop, and lead the next generation of intelligent software systems. The programme is offered in English and has a nominal duration of 2 years, comprising 120 ECTS. Students graduate with an MSc (Master of Science in Engineering).

The programme combines a strong foundation in computer science and software engineering with applied artificial intelligence. Students develop knowledge and skills in software architecture and quality, distributed and real-time systems, machine learning, robotics, data science, cryptography, natural language processing, computer vision, and cloud-based AI solutions. The programme focuses on applying artificial intelligence to real-world systems and developing the ability to make professional architectural and algorithmic decisions.

Study Options

Students can complete the programme through either a Single Degree or Double Degree option.

The Single Degree option allows students to complete the full programme at Tallinn University of Technology and receive a Master’s degree from TalTech.

The Double Degree option allows students to study their first year at TalTech in Tallinn and their second year at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) in the Netherlands. Upon successful completion, students receive two Master’s diplomas, one from each university.

Programme Structure

The programme consists of 120 ECTS distributed across several study modules:

• General Studies – 6 ECTS: Provides essential mathematical knowledge and skills for computer science, including mathematical principles underlying algorithms, data structures, and theoretical foundations.
• Core Studies – 18 ECTS: Develops knowledge of modern software engineering principles, software quality, agile methodologies, software project development and management, operating-system-level software, and architectural principles for complex distributed systems.
• Special Studies – 60 ECTS: Forms the central part of the programme, combining computer science with applied artificial intelligence. Students can specialise through electives covering algorithms, software engineering, intelligent robotics, machine learning, data science, cryptography, and computer vision.
• Free Choice Studies – 6 ECTS: Provides opportunities to broaden the student’s profile through areas such as entrepreneurship or interdisciplinary project-based learning.
• Graduation Project – 30 ECTS: Involves a substantial research or development project addressing a complex scientific or industrial challenge. For the Double Degree option, supervision takes place at one of the partner universities and assessment is conducted by a joint committee involving TalTech and TU/e members.

Entry Requirements

Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Information Technology or a closely related field, such as IT, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or an equivalent discipline.

Applicants must have achieved at least 60% of the highest possible CGPA. If the Bachelor’s average is below 60%, the requirement may be considered fulfilled under the stated conditions if the applicant has an average grade of at least 60% in previous Master’s studies. This alternative can only be applied when the Bachelor’s CGPA is not below 50%.

A GRE General Test result must be submitted because it is a preliminary requirement for applying. The source directs applicants to the programme information for the required threshold score and exemption criteria.

Entry qualification documents are accepted in English or Estonian. Applicants must upload official translations together with their original educational documents where applicable.

English Language Requirements

Applicants must provide adequate proof of English language proficiency. The accepted certificates and required results are specified on the university’s application information page.

English-language proof may only be waived for candidates who have completed on-site secondary education, a Bachelor’s degree, or a Master’s degree taught fully in English in one of the following countries: EU/EEA member states, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, or the United Kingdom.

Applicants who completed their English-taught studies outside the specified countries or not on-site are required to provide an internationally recognised English language test indicated by the university.

Additional Application Requirements

A motivation letter is required for the application. Applicants must provide an individual motivation letter for each programme requiring one. The letter should demonstrate clear written communication in English and explain the applicant’s motivation, study goals, previous education and work experience, and their relevance to the programme.

Applicants may also provide a link to a repository containing their most complex software project or projects, such as GitHub or GitLab.

The application also requires a CV through the online application form and an online interview.

The university states that sources used in the motivation letter must be properly cited and referenced. AI-generated text is not accepted because the motivation letter is intended to demonstrate the applicant’s genuine motivation. Failure to follow these requirements may result in disqualification.

Tuition Fees and Application Fee

The tuition fee for the programme is €7,000 per year. The source states that the programme is free for EU/EEA citizens.

An application fee of €100 is required per applicant. This is a one-time, non-refundable fee that allows an applicant to apply for two programmes.

Scholarship opportunities are also available through the university.

Career Opportunities

The programme prepares graduates for a range of roles combining software engineering and artificial intelligence. Potential career paths include:

• AI Engineer / Applied AI Specialist
• Software Architect
• Machine Learning or Data Scientist
• Robotics Software Engineer
• Cloud & DevOps Architect
• Technical Team Lead or CTO

Graduates can apply their expertise across areas including technology startups, global software companies, robotics, energy, healthcare, and research-intensive organisations. The programme also provides preparation for continuing to PhD studies in computer science or artificial intelligence.

Programme Start

The source states that studies commence on 31 August. It also states that the application period has ended.