UNIVERSITY OF GOTHENBURG · SWEDEN
Complex Adaptive Systems, Master's Programme
Master's · Taught in en · UCAS GU-11001
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€26k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 2 yearsDuration
- 120 creditsECTS
- CampusStudy Form
- Göteborg, SwedenLocation
- EnglishLanguage of Instruction
The Master's Programme in Complex Adaptive Systems investigates fundamental aspects of complex systems found in nature and society. It equips students with skills in using modern algorithms and computational tools for simulation and problem-solving, building upon existing mathematical knowledge. This interdisciplinary program, offered by the Department of Physics, provides a comprehensive introduction to the theory and applications of complex systems from a physics perspective, while also incorporating elements of information theory, machine learning, computer science, optimization, ecology, and genetics.
Curriculum
The program structure provides foundational knowledge in the first year, with opportunities to tailor education to individual interests. The second year is dedicated to a Master's thesis, which can be undertaken in collaboration with industry or academic research groups. Students can specialize in informal tracks focusing on physics/statistical physics, robotics and adaptive systems, or machine learning with applications.
- Year 1, Semester 1
- Neural Networks
- Stochastic Optimization Algorithms
- Simulation of Complex Systems
- Dynamical Systems
- Year 1, Semester 2
- Computational Biology
- Information Theory of Complex Systems
- Autonomous Robots
- Intelligent Agents
- Stochastic Processes in Physics, Chemistry and Biology
- Advanced Machine Learning with Neural Networks
- Year 2, Semester 1
- Humanoid Robotics
- Game Theory and Rationality
- Year 2, Semester 2
- Master's Thesis
Careers
Graduates receive a Master of Science degree with a major in Complex Adaptive Systems. The program's training in modeling and analyzing complex systems opens diverse career paths in software development, consulting, research and development, management, and the financial sector. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in rapidly advancing fields like machine learning and artificial intelligence, or for doctoral studies.
- Software Developer
- Consultant
- Researcher
- R&D Specialist
- Manager
- Financial Analyst
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- For Autumn 2026 entry, the full tuition fee is 290,000 SEK. For Autumn 2027 entry, it is 294,000 SEK. The first installment is due by May 1st for newly admitted students.
- What are the entry requirements for the Master's Programme in Complex Adaptive Systems?
- You need a Bachelor's degree equivalent to 180 ECTS credits in Natural, Engineering, or Mathematical Sciences, with at least 30 credits in mathematics and programming. Programming knowledge in languages like Python, Java, or C++ is also required.
- What is the duration of the programme and in what language is it taught?
- The programme lasts for 2 years and is taught entirely in English. The study form is campus-based in Göteborg, Sweden.
- What career opportunities are available for graduates?
- Graduates can pursue careers as Software Developers, Consultants, Researchers, R&D Specialists, Managers, or Financial Analysts. The programme also prepares students for doctoral studies.
- How do I apply and what are the deadlines?
- Applications are submitted online through universityadmissions.se between October 16th and January 15th for the autumn intake. An application fee of 900 SEK is required for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degree or equivalentEquivalent to 180 Swedish credit points (p) or 180 ECTS credits. Degree must be in Natural, Engineering, or Mathematical Sciences. Requires at least 30 credits in mathematics (including linear algebra and analysis) and programming.
English 6/BSwedish Upper Secondary School level or equivalent international test (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS)
Programming knowledge in Python, Java, C++, or similar general-purpose languages is required. Selection is based on the number of credits from previous university studies, up to a maximum of 165 credits.
Fees
Tuition (international)Full education cost: 290,000 SEK (for Autumn 2026 entry) or 294,000 SEK (for Autumn 2027 entry). First payment is 72,500 SEK or 73,500 SEK respectively.
Tuition (home)No fees are charged for EU/EEA citizens, Swedish residence permit holders, and exchange students.
Living—
An application fee of 900 SEK is required for citizens outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland. Tuition fees must be paid before the start of studies. Payment can be made via bank transfer or card. For non-EU/EEA students, the first tuition installment is due by May 1st for newly admitted students.
How to apply
1. Check Eligibility and RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language proficiency requirements. Have a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field with sufficient mathematics and programming credits. Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or Swedish English 6/B) is necessary.
2. Apply OnlineSubmit your application via universityadmissions.se during the application period (16 Oct - 15 Jan for the following autumn intake).
3. Pay Application FeeIf you are a citizen of a country outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland, you must pay a SEK 900 application fee at universityadmissions.se.
4. Await Selection ResultsSelection is based on academic credits from previous studies. Notification of selection results will be sent to the email address associated with your universityadmissions.se account.
5. Pay Tuition FeeFee-paying students must pay their tuition fee before the start of studies. The first installment is typically due by May 1st for newly admitted students for the autumn semester. Payment instructions will be sent via email after receiving the selection notification. Payment can be made via bank transfer or card.
6. Prepare for ArrivalOnce admitted and fees are settled, begin preparations for your move to Gothenburg, including applying for a residence permit if necessary.
Scholarships
Scholarships for fee-paying students—
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
For Autumn 2026 entry, the full tuition fee is 290,000 SEK. For Autumn 2027 entry, it is 294,000 SEK. The first installment is due by May 1st for newly admitted students.
What are the entry requirements for the Master's Programme in Complex Adaptive Systems?
+
You need a Bachelor's degree equivalent to 180 ECTS credits in Natural, Engineering, or Mathematical Sciences, with at least 30 credits in mathematics and programming. Programming knowledge in languages like Python, Java, or C++ is also required.
What is the duration of the programme and in what language is it taught?
+
The programme lasts for 2 years and is taught entirely in English. The study form is campus-based in Göteborg, Sweden.
What career opportunities are available for graduates?
+
Graduates can pursue careers as Software Developers, Consultants, Researchers, R&D Specialists, Managers, or Financial Analysts. The programme also prepares students for doctoral studies.
How do I apply and what are the deadlines?
+
Applications are submitted online through universityadmissions.se between October 16th and January 15th for the autumn intake. An application fee of 900 SEK is required for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.