Information and Communications Technology, Cyber-Physical Systems

Explore intelligent systems and become a highly skilled future professional

Autonomous robots, smart factories, and modern information systems only function when they are properly designed, secured, and monitored. Cybersecurity has emerged as one of the defining challenges of our time and the field has a growing need for the next generation of problem-solvers.   

In the Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) degree programme, you will explore intelligent systems and learn to protect the critical infrastructure of our society. AI security and reliability are central to the curriculum. Students get hands-on experience testing solutions through industry collaborations and laboratory work, building the skills that are genuinely needed in the field. 

The studies at Turku UAS typically contain several real-life research and development projects that are implemented together with local companies. By studying with us, you will participate in a lot of teamwork, laboratory work, and project work.

We value problem-based learning, and incorporate our students in hands-on projects from the beginning. The learning process is supported by lectures, laboratory exercises, virtual courses, seminar presentations, and individual tutoring. 

The degree programme is conducted as full-time studies, which means that studying requires participation in classes on campus and cannot be completed as full online studies.

Study contents

The programme proceeds in two phases. First, you build a solid foundation through basic studies. Then you develop your expertise through specialization in Dependable Devices or Networks and Cybersecurity. Throughout your studies – and especially in projects and your thesis – you bring these elements together in practice. 

The very idea of trust runs through every aspect of the programme. You will gain the skills to secure and develop dependable devices and systems.  

The extent of the degree programme is 240 ECTS credits and the planned duration of the studies is four years. The curriculum consists of 

• Basic and professional studies (180 ECTS)
• Optional studies (15 ECTS)
• Practical training (30 ECTS)
• Bachelor’s thesis project (15 ECTS). 

Basic studies contain the fundamentals of science and ICT, language and communication courses, and coaching in study skills. The basic studies take place during the first and the second study year, and they guide you into the topics of your future professional field. The goal is to build solid fundamental knowledge and skills required in the professional studies. 

Professional studies start in the second year and continue to the second last semester. 

In your optional studies you can include studies from your own or other degree programs, or from other universities. 

The aim of the practical training is to get acquainted with your future professional tasks and to learn how to apply your knowledge and skills to practice. The 30 credits correspond to about 21 calendar weeks of training. The training is supported by a teacher and an on-site supervisor. 

In your bachelor’s thesis, you develop and demonstrate your ability to apply your skills in a practical expert assignment related to professional studies. 

After graduation

Employers today are looking for professionals who understand the “big picture” – people who can combine technical skills with problem-solving, collaboration and understanding of real-world contexts. Upon graduation, you will be a highly skilled expert in devices and networks, developing and securing intelligent systems. 

Typical positions of graduates include for example: