Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne EPFL

Program Overview

The Bachelor in Computer Science at EPFL is designed for students who want to understand how technology works at its core — from software and algorithms to data systems and intelligent computing. It’s ideal for analytically minded students who enjoy mathematics, logical problem-solving, and building digital solutions that power today’s world.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Foundational Cycle):
Your first year builds strong scientific and analytical foundations. You study essential modules such as Advanced Information, Computation and Communication and Analysis I, developing mathematical reasoning and understanding how data and information are processed by computer systems. This year prepares you for the rigorous computing and engineering focus that follows.

Year 2:
In the second year, you dive into core computer science principles. Courses such as Algorithms I, Software Construction, and Computer Architecture teach you how efficient programs are designed, how software is built professionally, and how hardware and software interact. Supporting subjects like Probability and Statistics strengthen your ability to work with data and uncertainty.

Year 3:
In your final year, you explore advanced and specialized computing topics. You choose from courses such as Computer Security and Privacy, Data-Intensive Systems, Making Intelligent Things, and Computer Language Processing, allowing you to apply your knowledge to modern challenges in cybersecurity, big data, and intelligent applications.

Focus Areas

Algorithms, software engineering, computer architecture, data-intensive systems, cybersecurity, computational mathematics, intelligent systems.

Learning Outcomes

Ability to design and build software systems, apply mathematical reasoning to computing problems, develop efficient algorithms, work with complex data infrastructures, and engage with advanced computer science applications.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

EPFL is a Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, part of the ETH Domain, and internationally recognised for excellence in engineering and computer science education.

Reputation (Employability Context)

EPFL consistently ranks among Europe’s top technical universities, with graduates highly sought after by global technology companies, research institutes, and innovation-driven industries.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At EPFL, Computer Science students learn by doing from the very beginning. Alongside strong academic foundations, you gain real practical experience through software projects, research activities, and collaborative problem-solving that reflect how computer scientists work in industry and research. EPFL’s culture of innovation means you study in an environment filled with laboratories, tech facilities, and research groups — giving you early exposure to advanced computing tools and real-world experimentation:

Semester research projects, where students work under faculty supervision on real computing challenges and present their findings at the end of term
Project-based coursework, including software development and intelligent systems projects that build teamwork and engineering skills
“Summer in the Lab” program, offering paid summer research internships inside EPFL’s computer science laboratories
Structured internship opportunities, including short summer placements and longer professional internships with industry partners
Excellence Research Internship Program (ERIP) for high-performing students to join advanced research labs
Access to EPFL’s world-class computer science research laboratories, working in areas such as artificial intelligence, data systems, cybersecurity, software engineering, and computational theory
Collaborative project courses, such as Making Intelligent Things and Software Enterprise, simulating real tech product development teams
High-performance computing facilities and digital infrastructure supporting programming, simulations, and data-intensive work
EPFL Innovation Park and startup ecosystem, connecting students with tech entrepreneurship and industry networks
Comprehensive academic libraries and digital research databases, supporting independent study and technical exploration

This combination of research exposure, technical projects, internships, and advanced computing facilities ensures EPFL students graduate with strong portfolios, hands-on experience, and confidence to succeed in top technology or research careers.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor in Computer Science at EPFL leave with strong technical expertise, problem-solving ability, and research exposure that make them highly attractive to global employers. Alumni typically progress into roles such as Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Specialist, and AI / Systems Engineer, working in leading technology firms, research centres, startups, and innovation-driven industries. EPFL’s reputation as one of Europe’s top technical universities means students graduate with a degree that opens doors worldwide:

EPFL Career Services and Employability Center, offering CV workshops, interview preparation, networking events, and direct access to recruiter platforms
Structured internship opportunities, helping students gain industry experience during or after their studies
Strong graduate employment outcomes, with EPFL reporting that over 90% of graduates are employed or in further study shortly after graduation
Close links with industry and research partners, connecting students with innovation projects, tech companies, and startup ecosystems through EPFL’s Innovation Park
Internationally recognised Swiss Federal Institute degree, valued by employers and universities worldwide
Research-driven environment, allowing students to build portfolios through lab projects and applied computing work

This blend of academic excellence, research exposure, and career support ensures EPFL graduates step confidently into competitive technology and research careers.

Further Academic Progression

After completing the bachelor’s degree, students can progress directly to Master’s programs in Computer Science or related specialisations at EPFL, including artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, and systems engineering. Many graduates continue into PhD research at EPFL or other leading global universities, while others pursue advanced professional certifications in software, cloud computing, or AI — preparing for future leadership roles in technology and innovation.