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FDD3024 Research preparation course in programming languages and formal methods 10.0 credits

The course introduces theory, methods, and tools that are prerequisites for research in the areas of programming languages and formal methods at the division of theoretical computer science.

Information per course offering

Course offerings are missing for current or upcoming semesters.

Course syllabus as PDF

Please note: all information from the Course syllabus is available on this page in an accessible format.

Course syllabus FDD3024 (Spring 2020–)
Headings with content from the Course syllabus FDD3024 (Spring 2020–) are denoted with an asterisk ( )

Content and learning outcomes

Course disposition

The course consists of a number, minimum 4, of modules given by members of faculty and postdocs over a full term = two periods. Each module consists of 3-6 lectures with homework. At the end of the course a take-home exam is given over two days consisting of one problem set per module. Each problem set defines a minimum required pass level. To pass the course at least four problem sets must be completed at pass level. This allows students to focus their attention of a selection of course modules appropriate for their research topic.

Course contents

Basic program verification techniques (symbolic execution, abstract interpretation, VC generation, type systems); program logics; inter/intraprocedural flow analysis; Concurrency models, concurrency semantics and verification techniques; Systems modelling and refinement; Modelling, specification, and verification of security properties.

Intended learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student should be able to

  • Apply several theories and methods covered in the course on sample problems of limited scope and size
  • Evaluate the suitability of a given theory/method within a given problem domain
  • Define and execute a first own research project within the students research area
  • Account for choice of approach
  • Relate own work to the state of the art in the area

Literature and preparations

Specific prerequisites

See ”prerequisites”.

Recommended prerequisites

Mathematical maturity and computer science background commensurate with a masters exam in computer science, electrical engineering, math/physics, or similar masters level education.

Equipment

Nothing particular

Literature

Selected surveys, papers, slides, course notes, as suitable for each module.

Examination and completion

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

Grading scale

P, F

Examination

  • EXA1 - Examination, 10.0 credits, grading scale: P, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

The examination is done through the take-home exam as detailed above.

Other requirements for final grade

Passed take-home exam.

Opportunity to complete the requirements via supplementary examination

No information inserted

Opportunity to raise an approved grade via renewed examination

No information inserted

Examiner

Ethical approach

  • All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
  • In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
  • In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.

Further information

Course room in Canvas

Registered students find further information about the implementation of the course in the course room in Canvas. A link to the course room can be found under the tab Studies in the Personal menu at the start of the course.

Offered by

Main field of study

This course does not belong to any Main field of study.

Education cycle

Third cycle

Add-on studies

No information inserted

Contact

Mads Dam (mfd@kth.se)

Postgraduate course

Postgraduate courses at EECS/Theoretical Computer Science