Master's degree in Software: Science and Technology

Joint Degree Programme between the IMT School of Advanced Studies Lucca and the University of Florence.

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES

The Master's Degree trains experts in the design, implementation, validation, and maintenance of highly complex, high-quality software systems, meeting critical requirements such as performance, security, and reliability. The programme provides strong theoretical and practical skills in developing computing solutions and hands-on application of theories and methodologies through real-world projects and case studies.

Graduates will acquire the computer science and engineering knowledge needed to apply rigorous methodological approaches to software development. Key application areas include critical systems & infrastructures, internet of Things (IoT), systems-of-systems, cloud computing, microservices, blockchain and, resilient systems.

Multiple courses – both core and related subjects – will incorporate laboratory activities and project work to apply acquired theoretical knowledge. Notably, intensive bootcamp-style courses will be delivered in collaboration with companies of all sizes.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

The Master's Degree programme prepares graduates to become Software Systems Designers with the following competencies:

  • Design, implement, integrate, test, and maintain software components and systems that meet functional and non-functional requirements;
  • Establish quality policies (performance, correctness, reliability, resilience, etc.) and verify, validate, and certify compliance in developed systems;
  • Apply methodologies for the analysis, verification, validation, and certification of software-intensive critical systems;
  • Manage software projects from conception to delivery, ensuring adherence to quality standards;
  • Implement secure-by-design development through cybersecurity techniques and practices;
  • Design sustainable applications and computing systems;
  • Utilize and configure modern computer networks.

Graduates will possess skills demanded by public and private, national and international companies in IT or complex software development. The programme also prepares graduates for advanced research (after PhD training or additional education), secondary school teaching (with sufficient credits in relevant areas, as per current legislation), professional licensure as an Information Engineering Specialist (Section A of the Italian Engineering Board, after passing the State Examination).

All courses are offered and delivered entirely in English.

Admission requirements and the complete course list are available on the University of Florence website and degree programme page.