The VUB is unpacking the new English programme 'Applied Informatics'. Within this programme at the Faculty of Science and Bioengineering, master's students can choose one of the following profiles: Artificial Intelligence or Big Data. The Master of Science in Applied Informatics will already start in the 2023-2024 academic year. With this, the VUB is also expanding its offer within lifelong learning and for working students. 

Artificial intelligence and Big Data Technology are increasingly gaining importance, both in industry and in general life. It is therefore necessary to train both new talent and employees already working in ICT for this purpose. That the course is in English is no coincidence. ICT is pre-eminently an international field of activity. Thanks to this English-language variant of the programme, the VUB is no longer targeting only Dutch-speaking students, but also an international audience.

"We note a growing interest in big data technology and artificial intelligence (AI) worldwide. The VUB established the first AI Lab in continental Europe in 1984 and is still internationally important in the research field. Therefore, we want to translate and apply our expertise for students who want an intensive hands-on education to prepare them to be employed in the Flemish, Belgian, but especially internationally oriented AI sector of companies, industries and service sectors," said Steven Van Luchene, head of the Department of Educational Quality and Innovation.

Lifelong learning

The master's programme is also suitable for working students. Therefore, the VUB offers the programme through both conventional and evening classes, and it is partly available via distance learning. Furthermore, classes use a wide range of instructional techniques, such as group and individual projects, seminars, workshops and research training.