Computer Science -with Work (HMV) Diploma
What do I learn?
Taught in Icelandic. Proficiency in Icelandic is a requirement.
The Diploma in Computer Science with Work (HMV) is comparable to the first two years of a BSc in Computer Science. The diploma can be completed by attending a local day school or working. After completing the programme, students can decide to continue and add one additional year of study or 60 credits and graduate with a BSc in Computer Science.
Work-based studies
The student sets up a study plan based on time and ability, but most complete the programme in four years while working. It is possible to complete the programme in a shorter or longer time, but the student must meet the prerequisites for each course and the rules on maximum study time. In most cases, working students can watch lectures online but must attend evening classes at RU, on average, about once a week, except for programming and data structure, which require attendance twice a week
Teaching methods
Students access lectures online and attend case studies in the afternoon. Certain courses require on-site attendance, and students must be ready to sit a final exam during working hours.
Career
After completing their studies, students can continue studying for one more year and graduate with a BSc degree in computer science, giving them the right to use the legally protected professional title of computer scientist. Graduates work in system analysis and design, web and interface design, programming, quality testing and more.
Computer science is a mix of mathematics, art, and language. I can write a single line of code, and it instantly changes the colour on my screen! There’s so much to explore, so much happening—you can even create your own path within the field.
I find studying computer science to be incredibly diverse and challenging, yet 100% worth it. The social life also gets full marks and I’ve made so many great friends.
Structure
Below is an example of a sensible arrangement of compulsory courses based on a four-year study plan. Note that in this setup elective courses are included, but students may distribute their electives across the fall and spring semesters as best suits them.
Please note that that the courses Verklegt námskeið 1 og Verklegt námskeið 2 are taught onsite, requiring students to attend to classes for three consecutive weeks during working hours.
Elective courses
Students select 30 ECTS credits as electives. They may choose elective courses within the department (i.e., within the Department of Computer Science and technical subjects in the School of Technology and Engineering). For electives taken outside the department, the following applies: students may take up to 12 ECTS credits outside the department. If students select electives taught in a three-week session, those courses are offered only on campus in the daytime programme.
Pleae note that students aiming to finish a BSc in computer science can choose from:
- X-204-STOF Entrepreneurship and Starting New Ventures* (3. week- Spring)
- T-419-STR2 Discrete Mathematics II (Spring)
- T-501-FMAL Programming Languages (Spring)
- T-304-CACS Calculus for Computer Science (Fall)
- T-305-ASID Applied statistics and introduction to Data Science (Fall)
Sjá skipulag náms hér fyrir neðan
International accreditation
The BSc program in Computer Science with a minor in Business Administration at RU has the unique position in Iceland of having received international quality accreditation (ASIIN).
Facilities
Everything in one place
At Reykjavik University, all teaching and operations take place under one roof. Emphasis is placed on ensuring that everyone has easy access to the services within the building.
Further information: Campus | Háskólinn í Reykjavík
Living in Iceland
Many things must be considered before arriving in Iceland and during the first few weeks of your stay. Find everything you need about living, studying, and thriving in Iceland here:
New knowledge
RU is at the forefront of artificial intelligence research worldwide. Students who collaborate on projects and perform research with researchers from the Artificial Intelligence Center HR, CADIA, have access to the centre's facilities for experiments and unique development in the Black Hole, a multimedia experimental area. Some devices can be used to communicate between people and computers, including virtual reality devices (Oculus Rift and HTC Vive), giant screens (3m x 2m), computer vision (Kinect), directional microphones, computer-controlled LED lighting, speaker systems, and sound mixers, to name a few. The room can be reserved for project work or experiments.
Why should you choose a Diploma in Computer Science?
- The programme is practical and in active collaboration with industry.
- A university-level programme that offers the possibility of having credits transferred to other studies at RU.
- Teachers are experts in their fields.
- Final projects are carried out in collaboration with companies or the department’s research centres.