Computational Science and Engineering

Computer simulation has revolutionized the research tools of engineeers and is nowadays, besides theory and experiments, essential to many scientists. While the development of high performance computing (HPC) started many decades ago and has provided powerful computing capabilities, it has recently been recognized that integrating HPC to mathematical modeling, numerical algorithms and large scale data bases of observations will lead to a new paradigm in science and engineering.

Program's Objectives

This Master's is an inter-disciplinary program which is designed to provide the students a combination of skills in areas such as high performance computing, numerical mathematics, multiscale and multi-physics modeling together with a wide range of elective application courses.

Graduates will gain an outstanding combination of computer simulation, modeling and applied mathematics techniques and enhance their knowledge in chosen application area, enabling them to address tomorrow's computational challenges in industry. The Master in CSE is also an ideal preparation for various PhD programs in Basic Sciences and Engineering.

Core courses in computational mathematics, modeling and HPC: (30 ECTS)

• I.   Computational Mathematics
• II.  High Performance Computing (HPC)
• III. Stochastic / Visualization
• IV. Introduction to Modeling

Applications courses in modeling for continuum and discrete mechanics, multiscale physics, numerical methods and algorithms for high performance computing: (30 ECTS)

• Computational Modeling Based on Differential Equations ≥8 ECTS
• Computational Methods Based on Discrete Systems ≥8 ECTS
• Numerical Methods, Algorithms, High Performance Systems ≥8 ECTS

Projects: (30 ECTS)

• The Master in CSE is open to holders of a Bachelor's degree in natural sciences or engineering with strong interest to combine skills in applied mathematics, computer programming and scientific and engineering applications.
• Your resumé (curriculum vitae)
• Copy of your University degree(s) or Bachelor's degree. If you don't have your degree yet, you will bring it to the Registrar's Office upon registration at EPFL*.
• Legalized transcripts from each university you have attended.
• A statement of purpose. See hereunder for a more detailed explanation.
• Three recommendations (except holders of any EPFL Bachelor's degree applying in another field than their original field and except for candidates from another Swiss university applying to a Master in the same field of study as their Bachelor).
  During the electronic application process, you will have to give the details of three referees, who will then be requested to produce recommendation letters for you directly to EPFL. See hereunder for a more detailed explanation.
• Your identity card or passport.
• For foreigners who already live in Switzerland: your residence permit.
• Extra documents such as TOEFL or GRE scores, research publications or other portfolios of your previous work, are welcome but not compulsory. We will only consider documents uploaded in your online application form. (No documents sent by postal mail).
• Application fee CHF 150.

The financing of the Computational Science and Engineering program at the École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) is designed to support students throughout their academic journey, ensuring access to high-quality education without financial burdens. EPFL offers a range of scholarships, grants, and financial aid options for both international and Swiss students enrolled in this program. Scholarships are primarily awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or a combination of both. For outstanding students, EPFL provides merit-based scholarships that can cover tuition fees partially or fully, and sometimes include stipends to assist with living expenses.

In addition to university-specific scholarships, students can also apply for external funding from Swiss government programs, international organizations, and private foundations. The Swiss government offers mobility grants and excellence scholarships that are sometimes available to international students demonstrating exceptional academic performance or research potential. EPFL also encourages students to seek external sponsorships and fellowships, which can significantly offset the costs associated with the program.

Moreover, many students finance their studies through part-time work, internships, or research assistantships provided by EPFL, which often include remuneration and practical experience related to their field of study. International students can also benefit from the possibility of working part-time during their studies, adhering to Swiss legal regulations regarding work hours.

Student loans are another option for those who require additional financial support. Various banks and financial institutions in Switzerland offer loan programs for students, often in collaboration with educational institutions. These loans usually have favorable conditions, such as low-interest rates and flexible repayment plans.

The university also offers a range of support services to help students navigate the financial aspects of their education, including financial aid counseling and planning resources. Overall, the financing options at EPFL are designed to make the Computational Science and Engineering program accessible to talented students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that financial constraints do not impede their educational and research aspirations.

The Master in Computational Science and Engineering (CSE) at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) is a highly interdisciplinary and comprehensive program designed to prepare students for advanced research and professional careers in the rapidly evolving field of computational sciences. This program emphasizes the mastery of both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of computational methods across various scientific and engineering domains. The curriculum integrates principles from applied mathematics, computer science, physics, and engineering, enabling students to develop sophisticated algorithms and models for simulating complex systems.

Students in the CSE program have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge topics such as high-performance computing, numerical analysis, data science, machine learning, and scientific visualization. The program promotes a strong emphasis on hands-on experience through project-based learning, laboratories, and collaborations with industry partners. This approach prepares graduates to address real-world challenges in sectors like aerospace, energy, biomedical sciences, and environmental modeling.

The program is typically designed to be completed in two years, with coursework complemented by research projects, internships, or master’s theses. Students benefit from EPFL’s state-of-the-art research infrastructure and close ties with industry stakeholders, facilitating an applied and innovative learning environment. The faculty involved in the program are internationally recognized researchers and practitioners in computational science and engineering fields.

Graduates of this program will be equipped with strong problem-solving skills, advanced computational techniques, and an understanding of the scientific principles underlying the systems they study or develop. They are well-positioned for PhD studies, research positions, or roles in industry where computational expertise is crucial. The program fosters critical thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the ability to adapt to the fast-changing landscape of computational modeling and simulation.

In summary, the Master in Computational Science and Engineering at EPFL aims to produce highly skilled professionals capable of applying computational methods to tackle complex scientific and engineering problems, thereby contributing to innovation in academia, industry, and society at large.