Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Overview

The Computer Science (Joint Degree UvA–VU) – Big Data Engineering specialization at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam equips you with the skills to design and manage systems for processing and analyzing vast amounts of data. This collaborative program leverages the strengths of both UvA and VU, emphasizing both technical expertise and practical engineering challenges.

• Level: Master’s (MSc)
• Specialisation: Big Data Engineering
• Joint degree: UvA–VU (Computer Science)
• Credits: 120 ECTS
• Duration: 1–2 years (depending on your study pace)
• Delivery: On-campus (Amsterdam)
• Language of instruction: English

What you'll study

The curriculum integrates fundamental Computer Science courses with specialized training in big data engineering, software, and systems. Course offerings may vary, but key areas of focus include:

• Big Data Engineering
• Computer Systems and Infrastructure
• Software Engineering and Green IT
• Computer Security
• Mathematics
• Societal Perspectives of Computer Science

How you progress: You will complete the required courses for your specialization, creating a cohesive technical profile that spans data engineering, systems, and software. You may also have the opportunity to select electives and undertake a capstone or thesis project as part of the MSc requirements.

Entry requirements

Academic background

• Your previous education must be equivalent to at least a Dutch academic Bachelor’s degree (research university), typically lasting 3 years.
• You must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a closely related discipline.
• You should have at least 120 ECTS in Computer Science subjects, including:

• Mathematics (e.g., Linear Algebra, Discrete Mathematics, Statistics)
• Foundations of Computer Science (e.g., Algorithms, Logic, Automata, Graph Theory)
• Software Development (e.g., Programming, Software Testing, Software Engineering Methods)
• Computer Systems (e.g., Operating Systems, Computer Networks, Compilers)
• Data and Information Systems (e.g., Databases, Web Technology, Machine Learning)

English language requirements

• IELTS (Academic): minimum overall score of 6.5
• TOEFL iBT: minimum score of 92

Application documents (typical)

• Completed online application
• Academic transcripts and degree certificate (or proof of expected graduation)
• English test results (if applicable)
• Any additional documents requested for specific program assessment

Note: Application deadlines and document requirements may vary. Please verify the latest information on the official VU/UvA application calendar.

Career prospects

Upon completing your MSc in the Netherlands, you may qualify to work under the Dutch residence framework for graduates, subject to the regulations set by the Dutch Immigration Service (IND) and the specific conditions relevant to your nationality.