University of Ljubljana MSc Computer and Information Science 2026 Guide

University of Ljubljana FRI Overview

The Faculty of Computer and Information Science (FRI) at the University of Ljubljana stands as Slovenia’s premier institution for computer science education and research. Situated in the south-west part of Ljubljana near Rožnik hill, the campus occupies a green environment that is rapidly evolving into a technology and natural science hub — a fitting setting for one of Central Europe’s most dynamic computing faculties.

Founded as part of the University of Ljubljana — Slovenia’s oldest and largest university — FRI has built a reputation for producing graduates who excel in both industry and academia. The faculty’s motto, “Challenging the Future,” reflects its commitment to pushing boundaries in artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, and computational methods. With accessible city bus connections (routes 14, 14B, 18, and 18L) and bike-friendly trails, the campus blends urban convenience with a research-focused atmosphere.

For international students, FRI’s International Office (led by Ms. Vesna Gračner) provides dedicated support throughout the application and enrolment process. The faculty’s growing international profile is evidenced by its English-taught master’s programmes and strategic partnerships with institutions across Europe, including the prestigious Graz University of Technology in Austria.

MSc Computer and Information Science Programme Structure

The MSc Computer and Information Science at FRI Ljubljana is a two-year (four-semester) second-cycle programme that serves as the logical next step from bachelor-level studies in computing. What sets this programme apart is its remarkable flexibility: the course syllabus is tailored to students’ wishes, motivations, and preferences, with a wide range of elective content covering diverse fields and emerging technologies.

In the first year, students select two specialisation modules (four courses each) alongside a mandatory Mathematics I course and one general elective. This structure ensures a solid theoretical foundation while allowing deep exploration of chosen domains. The second year continues with one additional specialisation module, further elective courses, and culminates in a master’s thesis that demonstrates original research capability.

The programme is designed not only to equip students with cutting-edge technical skills but also to enable direct involvement in research and scientific work. This dual focus — on practical application and academic inquiry — gives graduates the versatility to pursue careers in industry, research institutions, or entrepreneurial ventures. If you are exploring other European master’s programmes, Ljubljana offers a compelling combination of quality and affordability.

Specialisation Modules and Curriculum Breakdown

FRI Ljubljana offers seven carefully designed specialisation modules, allowing students to craft a deeply personalised educational experience. Each module contains four courses that build expertise in a specific domain of computer science:

Module I: Intelligent Data Analysis

This module covers Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Network Analysis, and Introduction to Bioinformatics. It is ideal for students targeting careers in AI research, data-driven decision making, or computational biology.

Module II: Media Technologies

Focusing on Computer-based Sound Production, Web Information Extraction and Retrieval, Interaction and Information Design, and Advanced Computer Graphics, this module prepares students for roles in multimedia, UX design, and digital media engineering.

Module III: Computer Systems and Computing

Students explore Computer Systems, High-performance Computing, Unconventional Computing, and Cloud Computing — essential knowledge for careers in systems engineering, cloud architecture, and infrastructure optimisation.

Module VI: Computational Methods

Covering Topological Data Analysis, Numerical Mathematics, Collective Behaviour, and Discrete Mathematics, this module appeals to students interested in mathematical foundations and algorithmic theory.

Module VII: Computer Perception Methods

This module spans Image-based Biometry, Natural Language Processing, Biomedical Signal and Image Processing, and Advanced Topics in Computer Vision — cutting-edge areas at the intersection of AI and real-world perception systems.

Additional second-year modules include Computer Networks and Security (Module IV) with courses in Cryptography, Wireless Sensor Networks, and Digital Forensics, and Algorithms and Software (Module V) featuring Functional Programming, Approximation Algorithms, and Human-Computer Interaction. Beyond module courses, students can choose from standalone electives including Big Data, Deep Learning, and Research Seminars.

Data Science Track at FRI Ljubljana

For students with a strong quantitative background, FRI offers a dedicated Data Science track within the MSc Computer and Information Science programme. This highly selective path is designed for those with solid foundations in mathematics, computer science, and applied statistics, and it prepares graduates to become leading data science professionals, researchers, or educators.

The first year features six mandatory courses: Mathematics 1, Mathematics 2, Machine Learning for Data Science 1, Principles of Uncertainty, Introduction to Data Science, and a hands-on Project. Students also choose one specialisation module from the same seven options available in the main programme, ensuring breadth alongside depth.

The second year offers further specialisation through Group A electives (Bayesian Statistics, Deep Learning, Machine Learning for Data Science 2, Big Data) and Group B electives spanning a broad range from Natural Language Processing to High Performance Computing. Prerequisites for the Data Science track include working knowledge of calculus, linear algebra, probability, algorithms and data structures, and programming in a general-purpose language.

The faculty acknowledges that most incoming students will have gaps in at least one prerequisite area — this does not preclude acceptance, but students are expected to catch up during or prior to the first year. Recommended preparatory texts include Cormen’s Introduction to Algorithms, Strang’s Introduction to Linear Algebra, and Ross’s A First Course in Probability.

Admission Requirements and Selection Process

Admission to the MSc Computer and Information Science programme follows a structured selection process. Eligible applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information science, or a related natural and technical field including mathematics, physics, electrical engineering, chemistry, mechanical engineering, or construction.

Graduates from other disciplines can also qualify, provided they have completed specific prerequisite courses at FRI: Programming 1, Discrete Structures, Introduction to Digital Circuits, Computer Systems Architecture, and Introduction to IT Systems — or have covered equivalent material during their undergraduate studies.

The selection criteria weight bachelor’s GPA at 40% and performance on a selection exam at 60%. The exam covers mathematics, programming, algorithms, and computer systems, and is held in September following the application deadline. This emphasis on demonstrated competence rather than purely academic grades ensures that motivated students from diverse backgrounds have a genuine pathway into the programme.

For the Data Science track, the same admission criteria and selection exam apply. The Multimedia interdisciplinary programme places even greater emphasis on exam performance (80% weight) and covers additional topics including communication systems, internet protocols, and multimedia content properties. All international applications are processed through the University of Ljubljana’s central office, with dedicated support from Ms. Tanja Žužek and Ms. Alenka Šuligoj.

Double Degree with Graz University of Technology

One of FRI Ljubljana’s most distinctive offerings is its double degree partnership with Graz University of Technology (Technische Universität Graz) in Austria. With 10 available places, this programme allows students to earn master’s degrees from both universities simultaneously.

Students enrol in the double degree programme during their second year, spending at least one semester in Graz. The master’s thesis is prepared under the supervision of mentors from both universities, and credit points earned at either institution are mutually recognised. The entire programme is delivered in English.

The double degree deepens knowledge in key areas including algorithms, software technology, intelligent systems, information security, image processing, computer graphics and visualisation, media, and multimedia systems. Graz itself is an attractive study destination — Austria’s second-largest city with a population of 300,000, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, and a vibrant student community of over 40,000 across six universities. The university hosts more than 12,500 students, including over 100 from Slovenia.

Interdisciplinary Programmes at FRI

Beyond the core MSc Computer and Information Science, FRI offers several interdisciplinary programmes that broaden students’ horizons while maintaining rigorous computer science foundations. These joint programmes leverage expertise across multiple University of Ljubljana faculties.

The Computer Science and Mathematics interdisciplinary programme, offered jointly with the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, focuses on development with new technologies and research in mathematics and theoretical computer science. It requires two mandatory courses (Algorithms and Functional Programming) plus extensive electives in both computer science and mathematics, preparing graduates for roles across information and communication technologies.

The Multimedia programme, co-delivered with the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, combines computer science with telecommunications. Students learn to plan and implement multimedia systems, develop software for multimedia content analysis, and design user experiences. Career paths include multimedia services creator, UX designer, multimedia content analyst, and systems engineer.

Perhaps most intriguingly, the Cognitive Science programme brings together FRI with the Faculty of Education, Faculty of Arts, and Faculty of Medicine. This programme researches mentality through an interdisciplinary lens spanning neuroscience, artificial intelligence, biology, linguistics, anthropology, philosophy, and psychology. Notably, all graduates of academic bachelor programmes are eligible regardless of their field of study, making it uniquely accessible. For students interested in how business programmes compare, this demonstrates the breadth of FRI’s academic offering.

Research Opportunities and Faculty Expertise

FRI Ljubljana’s strength lies not just in teaching but in active research that feeds directly into the curriculum. The faculty’s research groups span the full spectrum of modern computer science, from fundamental algorithms and computational theory to applied domains like bioinformatics, natural language processing, and digital forensics.

Students in the MSc programme have the opportunity to engage in research from their first year, with courses like Topical Research Themes I and II and Research Seminar designed specifically to immerse students in ongoing faculty projects. The master’s thesis itself represents a significant original research contribution, often leading to co-authored publications in international journals and conferences.

Key research strengths include machine learning and artificial intelligence, where FRI researchers contribute to global advances in deep learning and neural network architectures. The computer vision and biometry group works on cutting-edge image analysis and recognition systems. The cybersecurity cluster covers cryptography, digital forensics, and information security — areas of growing importance in Europe’s evolving regulatory landscape.

The Data Science track is particularly research-intensive, with mandatory project work that connects students directly with faculty research agendas. FRI’s position within the emerging technology hub around Rožnik hill also facilitates partnerships with industry and other research institutions, creating a fertile environment for translational research that bridges theory and practice. The Slovenian Research Agency (ARRS) actively funds collaborative projects at the faculty.

Student Life in Ljubljana and Career Outcomes

Ljubljana consistently ranks among Europe’s most liveable small capitals, and for students, it offers an exceptional quality of life at remarkably affordable costs. The city’s compact size, extensive cycling infrastructure, and vibrant cultural scene make it an ideal study destination. The FRI campus, nestled near Rožnik hill with its walking trails, provides a green retreat minutes from the city centre.

The student community at FRI is tight-knit and internationally diverse. An active alumni network (Alumni klub FRI on LinkedIn) connects current students with graduates working across European and global tech companies. Social activities and the faculty’s presence on social media platforms foster connections that extend well beyond the classroom.

Career outcomes for FRI graduates are described as exceptional, with employment opportunities spanning Slovenia and the global market. The programme’s emphasis on both practical skills and research capability positions graduates for diverse roles: software engineering at major tech firms, data science positions at consulting companies and startups, AI research at laboratories and universities, cybersecurity roles in the growing European digital security sector, and entrepreneurial ventures leveraging Slovenia’s supportive startup ecosystem.

Slovenia’s digital transformation initiatives and the country’s membership in the European Union provide additional career advantages, with FRI graduates well-positioned to contribute to regional tech growth and to access opportunities across the entire EU labour market.

How Ljubljana Compares to Other European CS Masters

When evaluating the MSc Computer and Information Science at the University of Ljubljana against peer programmes across Europe, several distinctive advantages emerge. First, the programme’s combination of English-language instruction and Slovenian tuition rates offers exceptional value — students gain access to high-quality European education without the steep fees associated with programmes in the UK, Netherlands, or Switzerland.

The seven-module specialisation system provides greater flexibility than most European CS master’s programmes, where students typically choose from two or three predefined tracks. At FRI, mixing modules across years allows for truly customised learning paths — a student can combine Intelligent Data Analysis with Computer Networks and Security, for example, creating a unique cybersecurity-meets-AI profile.

The double degree option with Graz University of Technology adds an international dimension that many competitors cannot match, particularly at this price point. The Shanghai Academic Ranking recognises both universities’ research output, validating the programme’s academic rigour.

Compared to larger programmes at institutions like other universities in our guide, FRI’s smaller cohort sizes mean more direct interaction with faculty and greater opportunities to contribute to meaningful research projects. For students who prioritise research involvement, affordability, and flexibility over brand recognition alone, the University of Ljubljana represents one of Europe’s strongest choices for a master’s in computer science.