Computer science communication

Introduction

Objectives and content

Computer science has become an integral part of society and there is an increasing need for accurate knowledge and understanding about advanced computer science topics. A Master's degree in informatics with a specialization in computer science communication will equip you with the knowledge and skills to bridge knowledge gaps between experts and the general public.

You will simultaneously learn advanced topics in computer science and how to disseminate them to a variety of audiences, such as experts in other fields, the general public or students. The field of computer science communication includes research on how to develop high-quality computer science courses, presentations and activities, able to convey advanced concepts, both in education and outreach.

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

• understands advanced concepts in computer science and can effectively disseminate this knowledge
• knows important theories of computer science communication
• can apply methods from computer science communication research to share knowledge with audiences of various backgrounds
• can analyze societal impacts of misconceptions regarding computer science topics
• can analyze and participate in the academic discourse on computer science communication based on the subject's history and traditions.

Skills

The candidate

• can identify the core points from advanced topics in computer science that are relevant to a given audience,
• can use learning theory to independently design high quality computer science courses, presentations and activities,
• can analyze didactics research relevant to computer science, and independently evaluate and argue applicability of the results,
• can carry out an independent, limited research or development project in computer science communication under supervision and in line with applicable research ethics norms

General competence

The candidate

• can analyze relevant ethical issues such as biases in communication and education, knowledge divides and social inequalitie
• can communicate about academic issues, analyses and conclusions in computer science, both with specialists and the general public.
• has a critical and analytical view of their own and others¿ work.
• can apply their knowledge and skills in computer science communication to disseminate in depth new developments in computer science
• can communicate extensive independent work, and masters the forms of expression in the field of computer science communication
• is able to work independently and as part of a group, and can contribute to new thinking and in innovation processes

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 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 (except STAT100 and equivalent) mathematics. 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