Programme objectives

Embedded Systems is the most common form of computer systems, i.e., those that are built into machines, devices and power and manufacturing plants, and therefore is not perceived as a computer system. Today, around 98% of all manufactured processors are used in embedded systems application, from sewing machines, to respirators, TV, power consumption measurement equipment and satellites. The common denominator for these embedded systems is high demands on functionality and reliability. The embedded systems are often real-time systems in the sense that they closely interact with the surrounding world that they control.

The enormous price/performance development for electronics coupled with the flexibility and programmability that the technology brings, means that new products and new functionalities in existing products are strongly increasing. This conveys large opportunities for innovation, company development and new enterprises.

The industry is at the same time experiencing severe problems with sustaining competence within the area and is also facing large challenges in managing the integration of software and hardware, to define suitable system architectures and to verify the products.

The purpose of the Master program is to give a broad education within Embedded Systems with a possibility to enter deeply and specialize within the areas (Embedded Platforms, Embedded Software, and Embedded Control) covering theoretical as well as practical aspects for development of products based on Embedded Systems. Special weight is put on engineering skills, integration of software and hardware, system design, integration and verification, and the management of the design process.

Upon successful completion of the program the students shall

• Be able to design and evaluate the properties of an Embedded System.
• Have good knowledge of current research and development and industrial trends.
• Have good knowledge of processes, methods, and tools for development of Embedded Systems.
• Have a good foundation in Natural and Technical Science with a deepened understanding on an advanced level in one of the profiles of the program.

Upon successful completion of the program the students will be able to

• Show an ability that with a holistic approach be able to integrate knowledge, in an independent way and with a critical eye, identify and constrain, formulate and handle complex problems within the area.
• Show an ability to create technical solutions that fulfill human and societal needs.
• Show an ability to independently or within a group, plan and with adequate methods and tools, create relevant products and systems within given time frames, and evaluate this work.
• Through his/her evaluation capability and style of being, be a good ambassador for KTH in industry and the world.

Upon successful completion the students will be able

• to critically read technical reports and design documents;
• to assess its strong and weak points;
• to formulate their assessment in concrete and constructive terms.