Natural Language Processing

Natural Language Processing (NLP) at the University of Bergen is a comprehensive master's degree programme designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in the field of computational linguistics and artificial intelligence. This interdisciplinary programme combines insights from linguistics, computer science, and machine learning to enable students to develop systems that can understand, interpret, generate, and respond to human language in a meaningful way. Throughout the programme, students will explore core topics such as syntax, semantics, discourse processing, machine learning, deep learning, and language technology applications. The curriculum includes theoretical foundations as well as hands-on training in programming languages like Python, data analysis, and the use of state-of-the-art tools and frameworks commonly applied in NLP research and industry. Students will engage with real-world challenges such as sentiment analysis, machine translation, speech recognition, and chatbots, learning to design and implement solutions that improve human-computer interaction. The programme emphasizes research-oriented skills, encouraging students to undertake independent projects and contribute to ongoing advancements in NLP. Collaboration with industry partners and participation in cutting-edge research projects provide valuable practical experience and networking opportunities. Graduates from the programme will be well-prepared for careers in academia, technology companies, linguistic research institutes, and other sectors where natural language processing is pivotal. The University of Bergen's NLP programme is tailored to foster analytical thinking, technical proficiency, and innovative problem-solving skills necessary for leading developments in the evolving landscape of language technology.

The Master's degree programme in Natural Language Processing (NLP) at the University of Bergen offers students an in-depth understanding of the computational techniques and theories behind language analysis and synthesis. This interdisciplinary programme combines insights from linguistics, computer science, artificial intelligence, and cognitive science to equip students with the skills necessary to develop advanced language processing systems. Throughout the programme, students will explore core topics such as language modeling, syntax and semantics analysis, machine learning for NLP, and deep learning methods tailored for language data. They will also gain practical experience by working on real-world projects involving text and speech data, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge to solve complex language processing problems in various domains including healthcare, media, and automation.

The curriculum integrates both foundational courses and specialized electives, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests and professional goals. Core courses include Introduction to Natural Language Processing, Machine Learning for NLP, Linguistic Foundations for NLP, and Deep Learning for Text and Speech. Electives may cover areas such as Dialogue Systems, Sentiment Analysis, Information Extraction, Machine Translation, and Speech Recognition. Students will develop essential skills in programming (especially Python), data analysis, and system development, preparing them for careers in industry, research, or doctoral studies.

The programme emphasizes research-oriented learning and encourages students to participate in cutting-edge projects and collaborative research activities. Throughout their studies, students will also have opportunities to engage with industry partners and participate in internships, gaining practical experience in deploying NLP solutions in real-world settings. The faculty's expertise and active involvement in international research initiatives ensure that students are trained with the latest knowledge and technologies in NLP. Graduates of this programme will be well-equipped to contribute to innovative developments in language technology, including advancements in voice assistants, translation systems, and accessible communication tools. Overall, the Master's in Natural Language Processing at the University of Bergen prepares students for a dynamic and rapidly evolving field, offering a rigorous academic framework combined with practical experience and research opportunities.

The Master's programme in Natural Language Processing at the University of Bergen requires applicants to hold a Bachelor's degree or equivalent with a solid foundation in computer science, linguistics, or related fields. Prospective students should have completed coursework in programming (such as Python or Java), linguistics, machine learning, and statistics. The programme emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical skills, so applicants are expected to demonstrate basic knowledge of algorithms, data structures, and probabilistic models.

Applicants must submit their academic transcripts, curriculum vitae, a statement of motivation outlining their interest in NLP, and proof of English proficiency (such as TOEFL or IELTS scores) if applicable. Prior research experience or relevant projects in natural language processing, computational linguistics, or machine learning are considered advantageous. The programme also values interdisciplinary backgrounds, including degrees in linguistics, computer science, or cognitive science.

The admission process is competitive, and the university assesses candidates based on academic performance, relevant experience, motivation, and potential for research. There may also be interviews or additional tests if deemed necessary by the admissions committee. The programme is designed to prepare students for careers in academia, industry, or research institutions focusing on language technology, machine translation, speech recognition, and other NLP applications.

Students are expected to complete coursework in core NLP topics such as syntax, semantics, discourse analysis, machine learning for NLP, and deep learning. The curriculum includes practical projects, seminars, and a master's thesis that involves original research. The university provides access to computational resources, datasets, and collaboration opportunities with industry partners. Successful graduates will possess a comprehensive understanding of natural language processing techniques and be capable of developing innovative language technology solutions.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Master’s programme in Natural Language Processing at the University of Bergen offers various financing options for enrolled students. Norwegian and European Union/European Economic Area (EEA) students generally do not pay tuition fees for master’s degree programmes at Norwegian universities, including the University of Bergen. This policy aims to promote accessible higher education and attract a diverse student body from across the globe. However, students should budget for living expenses, such as accommodation, food, transportation, and study materials. Living costs in Bergen can be relatively high compared to other cities, and students are advised to plan their finances accordingly.

International students from countries outside the EEA are required to pay tuition fees, which vary depending on the programme and are set annually by the university. For the Natural Language Processing master's programme, tuition fees are typically announced on the university’s official website, with the possibility of registration fees that cover administrative costs. Prospective students are encouraged to explore scholarship opportunities offered by the university, Norwegian government, and other organizations. The University of Bergen provides several scholarship schemes aimed at attracting talented students, including the Bergen Excellence Scholarships and various externally funded scholarships that can partly or fully cover tuition fees and sometimes living expenses.

Additionally, students may apply for external funding sources, such as government grants, private foundations, and international programs like Erasmus+, which support mobility and study exchange. It is essential for students to prepare a comprehensive financial plan well in advance of admission and to regularly check the university’s official notices for any updates regarding funding opportunities. Work permits allow international students to engage in part-time work during their studies, providing additional financial support, though this should not be relied upon solely for funding the entire educational cost.

In conclusion, the financing of the Natural Language Processing programme involves careful planning, awareness of tuition policies for different student categories, and exploration of scholarships and external funding options. Students should contact the university’s admissions office or visit its official website for the most accurate and current financial information related to their specific circumstances.

The Master's Programme in Natural Language Processing at the University of Bergen offers students an in-depth education in the computational and linguistic aspects of understanding, analyzing, and generating human language using advanced computer algorithms and methods. This program is designed for students interested in the interdisciplinary field that combines linguistics, computer science, and artificial intelligence to develop systems capable of processing large volumes of natural language data.

The curriculum typically covers core topics such as machine learning, statistical methods, and deep learning techniques tailored for language processing tasks. Students learn about language models, syntax and semantics, information extraction, sentiment analysis, and machine translation. Practical skills are emphasized through project work, coding assignments, and case studies, often utilizing popular tools and frameworks such as Python, TensorFlow, and PyTorch. The program aims to equip graduates with both theoretical understanding and practical expertise, enabling them to contribute to the development of cutting-edge NLP applications.

Students also explore the ethical considerations and societal impacts of NLP technologies, including data privacy, bias, and language diversity. The program may include options to specialize further in areas like speech recognition, dialogue systems, or multilingual processing, depending on current research strengths and industry demand.

The Master's in Natural Language Processing at Bergen prepares students for careers in academia, industry, and research institutions, where they can work on developing intelligent systems that understand and generate human language. Graduates often find opportunities in technology companies, research labs, government agencies, and startups focusing on language technology solutions. The program also provides a solid foundation for those interested in pursuing doctoral studies in computational linguistics, artificial intelligence, or related fields.

The University of Bergen’s strong research environment supports the program, offering access to specialized resources, ongoing research projects, and collaboration opportunities with international partners. Students benefit from Bergen's vibrant academic community and the university's commitment to innovation in language technology. The program duration typically spans two years, during which students undertake coursework, research projects, and a master's thesis. Overall, the Master's Programme in Natural Language Processing at the University of Bergen is an excellent choice for students passionate about advancing technology that bridges computers and human language, set within a collaborative and internationally oriented academic setting.