Algorithms

Introduction

Objectives and content

A Master's degree in informatics with a specialization in algorithms has a focus on the development and improvements of algorithms and computer programs, so that problems and challenges can be solved in the best and fastest way on computers. The aim is to find the best and most effective methodology, either through analysis, or through practical testing.

This Master's degree programme also includes fundamental aspects of algorithms, such as identification of problems that are hard to solve on computers. In these situations, development of alternative solutions is the main focus.

What you Learn

Learning Outcomes

A candidate who has completed his or her qualification should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge skills and general competence:

Knowledge:

The candidate

• Can analyze code and algorithms
• Can implement algorithms
• Can assess the suitability of an algorithm
• Can develop efficient algorithms for problems that can be solved in polynomial time
• Can use techniques to handle difficult problems

Skills:

The candidate

• Can analyze code and algorithms to find bottlenecks, and then know how to handle them.
• Can implement algorithms rapidly and efficiently.
• Can decide if a given algorithm is suitable for its intended purpose.
• Can distinguish between problems that can and those that most likely cannot be solved in polynomial time.
• Can develop efficient algorithms for problems that can be solved in polynomial time.
• Can use the most common techniques for handling difficult problems.

General competence:

The candidate

• Is able to work independently and in groups with others.
• Has a critical and analytical view of his/her own work and that of others.
• Is able to evaluate ethical aspects of his/her own projects.

Study Period Abroad

Study period abroad

You can plan study periods abroad in consultation with your supervisor as a part of the master agreement.

How to Apply

Semester

For applicants residing in Norway: autumn and spring

Admission Requirements

The master's programme builds on a bachelor's degree from the Department of Informatics, or a bachelor's degree and at least 80 ECTS of Mathematics and Informatics/Computer science.

Bachelor's degrees from UiB that qualify:

• Bachelor's degree from Department of Informatics, UiB (BAMN-BINF, BAMN-DSIK, BAMN-DTEK, BAMN-DVIT, BATF-IMØ, BAMN-INF)
• Bachelor's degree in Information and Communication Technology (IKT) with at least 15 ECTS (at least two courses for at least 7,5 ECTS each) of elective Mathematics
• Bachelor's degree in Cognitive Science (BASV-KOGNI) with specialization in Informatics
• Bachelor's degree in Artificial Intelligence (BASV-AIKI) qualifies, if you have at least 80 ECTS of Mathematics and Informatics/Computer Science. Out of these 80 ECTS, at least 40 ECTS must be in Informatics/Computer science, and at least 15 ECTS must be in Mathematics. One course in Statistics can count towards Mathematics (except STAT100). MNF130 and equivalent counts as Informatics. INF-courses and INFO-courses with credit reduction towards INF-courses count as informatics.

Bachelor's degrees that qualify

• Bachelor's degree in Computing from HVL (Western Norway University of Applied Sciences)
• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology from HVL
• Bachelor's degree in Communication Systems from HVL

Other bachelor's degrees might qualify if you have at least 80 ECTS of Mathematics and Informatics/Computer Science. Out of these 80 ECTS, at least 40 ECTS must be in Informatics/Computer science, and at least 15 ECTS (at least two courses with 7,5 ECTS each) must be in Mathematics. If both INF100 and INF109 are part of the Bachelor's degree, the applicant will only get credits for INF100. One course in Statistics can count towards Mathematics (except STAT100). MNF130 (and equivalent) counts as Informatics.

For international self-financing applicants:

The Master's programme is not available for international applicants residing outside of the Nordic countries, the European Union/EEA and Switzerland.

You also need to document:

• Average grade of minimum C (equivalent to Norwegian grade C)
• Proficiency in English