u/Upstairs-Ad6127

Hey everyone!

I’m a 2nd-year Computer Engineering undergraduate student from Italy, and I’m currently looking ahead at my options for a Master’s degree in 2027. Chalmers is right at the top of my list.

I am highly interested in two specific programmes: Data Science and AI and Engineering Mathematics and Computational Science.

Since I want to get a realistic view of what life at Chalmers is like, I wanted to ask the community a few questions:

1. How are exams usually structured? In Italy, we have a lot of heavy theoretical oral and written exams at the end of the semester. How does it work at Chalmers? Is it more project-based, continuous assessment, or classic big exams?
2. How difficult/competitive is it to get into these two courses? For international applicants coming from a European engineering background, what does the selection usually look for the most (GPA, specific courses, motivation)?
3. What are the actual industry opportunities for each track? I know Gothenburg has an amazing tech and automotive ecosystem. Do students from both these tracks find it easy to secure master's thesis projects or internships with them? Does one track have a significant edge over the other in the local job market?
4. Are there hackathons or pitch-up events? I love getting hands-on and building things. Does the university, the student union, or the local ecosystem actively organize hackathons, pitch events, or similar competitions where students can showcase their skills and connect with startups?

Would love to hear from anyone currently enrolled in these programmes or recent alumni. Thanks a lot for your help!