Computer Science

Why Computer Science?

The field of Computer Science is concerned with obtaining knowledge about notions, methods, and skills connected with the operation and applications of computers.

The Computer Science programme at VU University Amsterdam offers eight specializations. You will learn about the techniques behind computer systems, programs, and the Internet. This depends on the specialization that you have chosen. In the specialization ‘Internet and Web Technology’ you will for example explore what is technically feasible on the Internet and what is not, both now and in the future. In ‘Technical artificial intelligence’ you will learn to design intelligent computer programs. Programs like these could be used by your local supermarket chain to extract your customer profile from a vast array of customer information, and propose targeted discounts for new products you might like.

Current research topics

The software behind mobile phones
New types of mobile phones with all kinds of novel features seem to appear every day. But the software inside is not redesigned and rewritten every time. The programs can simply be expanded by adding new “building blocks” from time to time. But just how do you go about doing that?

The technology behind P2P
What kind of technology makes BitTorrent work? Nowadays, millions of people use P2P programs. These networks have to manage their structure autonomously, regardless of the number of people joining or leaving the system at any time.
Are these transactions secure? What kinds of technologies are at work here?

Digital social networks
Social networks are very important in most people’s lives. Nowadays, there are also lots of digital social communities, like Facebook or Hyves. How are these social networks built up, what specific technologies make them tick?

Further information

Events and activities (Dutch)/Events (English)
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