
Pre-Master Program on the Foundations of IT – Specialization in AI and ML
Schaffhausen, Switzerland
DURATION
16 Weeks
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Part time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
10 Feb 2025*
EARLIEST START DATE
17 Feb 2025
TUITION FEES
CHF 5,000 **
STUDY FORMAT
Distance Learning
* rolling admission basis
** fees paid for the pre-master program can be deducted from the first-year tuition for those who enrol in the msc
Introduction
About the Pre-Master program (FIT)
The Foundations of Information Technology (FIT) program, will bring you up to date on your missing knowledge. Coursework in the FIT includes topics like algorithms, data structures, theory of computing, logic, concurrency, databases, linear algebra and statistics.
The FIT program prepares you for advanced studies in Computer Science, Software Engineering, and Quantum Technologies, and for work in the IT industry. The program is tailored for individuals who have a strong science, math or engineering background and programming enthusiasm - but who may be missing the essential components of Computer Science from their prior education.
Get FIT to pre-qualify for the Master of Science: if you successfully complete the program with a minimum overall grade of 5 or higher*, you automatically qualify for admission into one of Constructor Institute of Technology master programs (Computer Science, Software Engineering and Leadership – CSSEL, and Quantum Software Engineering and Computer Science – QSECS), along with a tuition reduction. The fees you pay for the online pre-master will be applied directly toward the first year's tuition of the MSc after you earn admission (overall grade of 5/6). So there's no additional cost to the MSc for those who begin with the pre-master program.
*Grades for the pre-master program follow the Swiss grading system, where 6 is Excellent, 5.5 is Very good, 5.0 is Good, etc. An overall grade below 5.0 will still earn the FIT Certificate, yet will not automatically pre-qualify students for the MSc.
Why is the Pre-Master a good FIT for you?
Many professionals in the field have acquired specific programming tools and techniques but encounter limitations in their career development due to a lack of essential foundations in computer science and software engineering. The Pre-Master (FIT) Program addresses these deficiencies and equips its graduates for successful further study and exciting careers in advanced IT projects, utilizing modern techniques of software engineering, quantum computing, and artificial intelligence.
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Ideal Students
The Pre-Master Program on the Foundations of IT is designed for aspiring professionals and students eager to advance in cutting-edge fields such as computer science, software engineering, quantum computing, physics, mathematics, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).
This program is ideal for individuals who:
- Have a BSc degree in a related but not exact discipline and seek to transition into one of these specialized fields.
Lack formal academic training in IT but wish to develop a strong foundational understanding before pursuing a master’s degree or career change. - Are looking to enhance their professional skill set and stay competitive in the fast-evolving tech landscape.
- The curriculum provides a rigorous and structured introduction to key concepts, methodologies, and practical applications in information technology. Participants will gain a solid grounding in computational thinking, mathematical modeling, and coding, preparing them for further academic or professional advancement.
Admissions
Join our Open Hour Sessions
Constructor Institute of Technology invites you to our exclusive Open Hour sessions every Wednesday from 16:00h -17:00h (CET). Join us anytime you want and have a one-to-one consultation and invest in your tech future.
Curriculum
Program structure
The schedule for the Pre-Master Program 2024 is divided into two blocks:
- Block A: Foundations
4 Courses (3 ECTS*** each) - Block B: Applications
4 Courses (3 ECTS each)
The total program comprises 24 ECTS credits.
Assessment
- Continuous grading during each course
- Final exams
*** Credit points in the European Credit Transfer System
Curriculum
Block A (mid-Feb to early April)
- Logic & discrete math
- Theory of Computing
- Math for AI and ML
- Object-Oriented Programming
Block B (mid-April to mid-June)
- Algorithms and Data Structure lab
- Operating systems & concurrency
- Information systems
- Machine learning
Program Outcome
Outcome 1: Automatic entry into the Master of Science (CSSEL or QSECS) programs at Constructor Institute of Technology upon completion with a minimum overall grade of 5** or higher.
Outcome 2: Career readiness. Those who get "FIT" and choose not to enrol in the MSc will be well-equipped for immediate roles in the tech industry.
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
Constructor Institute of Technology’s master of science programs allow you to graduate with the skills needed to drive innovation in industry, academia, or through your own startup. Through interdisciplinary learning and the development of strong skills in various functional areas, the knowledge gained throughout the master’s program will not only guide you to the career of your choice but will allow you to stand out as an exceptional candidate to employers. With scientifically up-to-date course content, the skills and knowledge required by the industry needs of today and tomorrow are expertly met. The students profit from unique opportunities such as employment through our network, participation in research projects, and opportunities to access the European job market.
Future leadership jobs
- Chief Architect (CA): A crucial and active horizontal role to drive the technology delivery roadmap across the organization.
- Chief Product Officer (CPO): A strategic leader, visionary, and team supervisor of new-generation product management in which computer science, business, and innovation are combined.
- Chief Program Officer (CPO): A new leader who focuses on program value flow and delivery, stakeholder communication, cadence and planning, cross-team collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Chief Development Officer (CDO): A strategic leader who shapes an enabling engineering environment — people, structure, agile processes, and tools.
- Chief Security Officer (CSO): A transformational leader who takes a "bodyguard" approach rather than a "gate-keeper" one.
Facilities
Student Testimonials
Why study at Constructor Institute of Technology
Why Study at Constructor Institute of Technology?
1. Located in Switzerland
- Situated in the heart of Europe, Switzerland is renowned for its high quality of life, safety, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
- As a global hub for innovation, Switzerland provides access to cutting-edge research facilities and thriving industries in technology, finance, and beyond.
- The industrial revolution in Switzerland began from the canton of Schaffhausen and its strategic geographic position allow great mobility and an international network.
2. World-Renowned Professors
- The institute is home to a distinguished faculty of internationally recognized professors and experts in their fields.
- Students benefit from learning directly from thought leaders, researchers, and innovators shaping the future of technology.
3. Strong Research Community
- The Constructor Institute fosters an exceptional research environment, enabling students to work on impactful projects alongside leading researchers.
- The institute is actively involved in advancing fields such as Computer science, Software Englineering, Quantum Technologies, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Cyber Security, making it a hub for pioneering discoveries and research.
4. Innovative Curriculum
- Programs are carefully crafted to blend theoretical foundations with real-world applications.
- The focus on emerging fields ensures graduates are equipped with future-proof knowledge and skills.
5. Industry Connections
- Collaborations with global tech leaders provide students with networking opportunities, internships, and career pathways.
- The institute’s ties to industry ensure that graduates are highly employable and ready to meet market demands.
- The institute is part of own eco-system (Constructor Group )of education institutions and tech related businesses that allows members to network, exchange knowledge and pracises as well as to develop professionally.
6. International Environment
- A diverse student body and faculty foster cross-cultural collaboration and global perspectives.
- Programs are aligned with international standards, preparing students for careers anywhere in the world.
7. Research-Driven Learning
- Students gain access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources for hands-on learning and innovative research projects.
- The emphasis on research ensures graduates are prepared to contribute to groundbreaking technological advancements.
8. Flexible Learning Options
- Online and hybrid learning modes allow students to balance their education with other commitments.
- Programs like the Pre-Master in IT offer a tailored pathway for students to strengthen their foundations and prepare for advanced studies.
- Our small, international study groups allow students to interact very closely with faculty and peers.
9. Pathway to Excellence
- High-achieving students in preparatory programs gain automatic admission to prestigious master’s programs, along with tuition reduction incentives.
- Rigorous academic standards ensure students graduate with the skills and credentials to excel in their chosen fields.
10. Supportive Community
- Accessible faculty, strong mentoring programs, and a vibrant alumni network provide continuous guidance and support.
- Career services help students navigate their professional journeys with confidence.
By choosing the Constructor Institute of Technology, students will benefit from Switzerland’s innovation-driven ecosystem, an internationally acclaimed faculty, and a thriving research community—ensuring a transformative education and career development.
Program delivery
This program is entirely delivered online. You can expect 10-20hrs workload a week from mid February until mid June.
The 5000 CHF tuition fee is deducted from the regular MSc, should the student complete successfully the Pre-master program and enrolls for a MSc degree with us.