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Free University of Bozen-Bolzano

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Master in

Software Engineering

In this programme, you will learn how to leverage next-generation technologies such as Cloud Computing, Internet of Things, and Analytics to create, connect, optimise and engineer innovative systems moving to the pragmatic application and commercialisation on a rapid and large scale.

Course description

The software engineering landscape is evolving rapidly, with AI-based tools such as ChatGPT and Copilot transforming the way we develop software and automate business processes. Modern organisations require advanced IT solutions that necessitate a profound grasp of operational environments and business contexts, rendering software development a discipline that demands proficiency in contextual analysis, AI integration, and customisation. There is an increasing need for a new generation of software technologies to ensure robust, safe, secure and real-time operations, particularly in AI-driven environments where software reliability and sustainability are critical concerns. The programme also covers the responsible development of software.  

Our programme features a study plan that tackles the AI revolution head-on. Rather than treating AI as an add-on, we have integrated it into multiple courses to demonstrate how this technology is transforming every aspect of software engineering, just as it is doing in the real world. 

On this programme, you will learn to conceive, design, implement, customise and maintain modern software systems by applying advanced software engineering principles enhanced with AI capabilities. The curriculum provides advanced, contemporary software engineering knowledge and software development practice. You will develop and test prototypes that reflect today's AI-driven reality, preparing you to address the challenges that new technological advances present to software engineering.

We will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career as a software engineer in an AI-empowered world.

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At a glance

Master class: LM-18
ECTS credits: 120
Duration of the course: 2 years
Courses will be taught in English
Places available: 30 + 30 non-EU
Campus: NOI Techpark Bozen-Bolzano
Tuition fees: ca. € 1200 per year 

Structure of the course

The study plan is structured to offer both a solid foundation and flexible opportunities for specialisation. It consists of three main components that combine theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and research experience.

  • Mandatory courses (60 ECTS credits): These courses cover topics providing both foundational and advanced knowledge of software engineering. They aim to standardise the knowledge of students from different educational backgrounds and further develop their professional competencies as software engineers.  
  • Optional and free-choice courses (24 ECTS credits): These courses cover various topics related to software engineering that students can choose from to extend their knowledge. Examples include algorithms for parallel computing, responsible software engineering and entrepreneurial software engineering. These courses cover topics that reflect current trends in software engineering, extending students' knowledge horizontally. They cover a broader range than classical software engineering programmes, providing students with contemporary, interdisciplinary knowledge.  
  • Internship and Thesis (36 ECTS credits): These two elements are open to all students, who can use them to gain professional experience in a business area of their choice and to explore a specific area of software engineering through conducting empirical research. 

Part-time enrolment 

Part-time enrolment 

Part-time enrolment allows you to reduce your study load, giving you more time for other activities such as work, sports, or personal or familiar commitments. You will take a reduced number of courses per year while still having access to all the services provided by the university. Students choose this option after enrollment (in October) and not during the application.

More info

People

Degree Course Director: Prof. Xiaofeng Wang
Student Representative in the Course Council: Marco Panizzo

Exchange programmes and internships

Currently we offer exchange programmes with partner universities all over the world and we are part of a large network of collaboration with employers in Italy and abroad where you can undertake an optional internship with a maximum of 300 hours.

Career Opportunities

Typical job profiles are Software Engineer: Analysis, design, implementation, customisation, overhaul, and maintenance of intelligent solutions with high reliability and performance , by fully exploiting inventions and software technologies for pragmatic application and rapid commercialisation, in real time and on a large scale. Such software systems include: ICT, business, industrial automotive, automation and control, scientific and data processing, the management of complex infrastructures, cyber-physical systems;

On the website of  AlmaLaurea you can check our outstanding statistical data about the satisfaction of our graduates, and their employability.

Go to the survey (in Italian)

Highlights

Studying at unibz

Living in South Tyrol, Housing, Scholarships, Single Subject Courses and more

Coming to unibz from abroad

Everything you need to know as a degree-seeking applicant or as an incoming exchange student

Application and Admission

You can find all you need to know in order to apply and gain admission to this study programme by browsing through the information below.

Subject to accreditation of the Ministry.

Early Bird Application

Application: 03/03 - 06/05/2025 (by noon local time)
Language exams (online): 17/03/2025 (registration: 03 – 09/03/2025) and 16 -17 - 22 - 23/04/2025 (registration: 24/03 – 08/04/2025)
Publication of ranking lists: by 27/05/2025
Payment of the 1st instalment of the tuition fees: by 05/06/2025 (by noon local time)
Enrolment: from 11/07 - 14/10/2025 (by noon local time) 

Late Application (only for EU citizens)

Application: 28/05 - 09/07/2025 (by noon local time)
Language exams (online): 23 - 27/06/2025 (registration: 28/05 – 15/06/2025)
Publication of ranking lists: by 29/07/2025
Payment of the 1st instalment of the tuition fees: by 05/08/2025 (by noon local time)
Enrolment: from publication of the ranking list until 14/10/2025 (by noon local time) 

Super Late Application Session (only for EU citizens)

Application: 17/09 - 26/09/2025 (by noon local time)
Publication of ranking lists: by 10/10/2025
Payment of the 1st instalment of the tuition fees: by 17/10/2025 (by noon local time)
Enrolment: from publication of the ranking list until 17/10/2025 (by noon local time) 

Preparatory courses and Freshers Days

Freshers Days: 29 - 30/09/2025

1st semester

Classes: 29/09 - 23/12/2025
Holidays: 24/12/2025 - 06/01/2026
Classes: 07/01 - 24/01/2026
Exams: 26/01 - 21/02/2026

2nd semester

Classes: 02/03 - 02/04/2026
Holidays: 03 - 06/04/2026
Classes: 07/04 - 13/06/2026
Exams: 15/06 - 11/07/2026

Autumn session

Exams: 24/08 - 26/09/2026

The Advisory Service provides support regarding your choice of study. In many cases a simple call or a short request is enough to get the relevant information (Tel. +39 0471 012100).

Study Course Page - Common Links - Engineering

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