Shaping the future of AI and cyber security
While the fast developments in the field of digitalisation and AI are transforming industry, businesses need to embrace new technologies while tackling growing cyber threats. The MAS programmes in "AI and Digital Technology" and in "Cyber Security" at ETH Zurich equip professionals with the expertise to navigate this evolving landscape.
Digitalisation and the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) are shaping not only our everyday lives, but also the business world. Companies and organisations are faced with the challenge of integrating digital technologies into their processes and building interdisciplinary teams. Their task is to effectively implement software, networks and AI applications in business solutions. However, this development also brings risks: the increasing dependence on digital systems adds complexity and makes the scale of potential cyber-attacks larger.
To meet these challenges, a deep technical understanding of AI and cyber security is becoming increasingly important. This is where the Master of Advanced Studies ETH in AI and Digital Technology (MAS AID) and the Master of Advanced Studies ETH in Cyber Security (MAS in Cyber Security) come in.
Break out of the buzzword bubble: The MAS in AI and Digital Technology
The MAS AID is a technical programme designed specifically for managers who want to gain a solid understanding of machine learning, artificial intelligence and other digital technologies. The aim is to improve their ability to communicate and collaborate with technical teams. “Participants will acquire a solid technical foundation that will help them ask the right questions and make informed decisions,” explains Maria Rosaria Polito, programme manager of MAS AID.
The programme comprises two parts. The first part, consisting of three Certificates of Advanced Studies (CAS), teaches the scientific and technical foundations of computer science:
- CAS in Data & Machine Learning: Introduction to fundamental IT, data science and machine learning / AI training relevant to a wide range of industries and organizational areas.
- CAS in AI & Software Development: Education in software engineering and AI targeted to the needs of business managers.
- CAS in Cloud & Mobile Computing: Focused technical education in cloud, mobile and edge computing with AI.
This foundation is necessary in order to deal with more advanced topics in the second part of the programme. “We believe that a solid foundation is crucial to understanding both current and future developments in the field of artificial intelligence”, Polito continues. Only once these three CAS have been completed can the second part of the MAS programme begin.
“With the understanding of AI and digital technology gained from this programme, managers can break out of the buzzword bubble and have more informed and productive discussions. ”Professor Bernd Gärtner, Programme Director
This includes a practice-oriented project in the field of AI and various seminars covering the latest research findings and current industry challenges. The programme is capped off with a Master's thesis, which offers participants the opportunity to work on a topic directly related to their professional activities or personal interests. The MAS is primarily aimed at managers with little prior IT knowledge.
The MAS AID offers a unique value proposition for these managers, according to Prof. Dr. Bernd Gärtner, Programme Director: “With the understanding of AI and digital technology gained from this programme, managers can break out of the buzzword bubble and have more informed and productive discussions. This will help them and their companies to better incorporate current technology into their products and processes.”
Tailor-made continuing education: The MAS ETH in Cyber Security
The MAS ETH in Cyber Security, on the other hand, is designed for experienced IT specialists. This programme is aimed at experts in the fields of software and network engineering, information security, system analysis and cyber security consulting.
“Our target group has a common need - they want to integrate high safety standards and practices into their working environment and into their products," says Dr Siniša Matetic, Director of the MAS programme.
The programme begins with three courses that are compulsory for all participants:
- Introduction to Information Security: Introduction to the basics of information and cyber security from a technical perspective, supplemented by practical experiments to better understand the theory.
- System Security: Analysis of the challenges of digital system security, such as how compilers can be used to ensure software security guarantees.
- Network Security: Analysis of how the Internet and its components work with a focus on security aspects, including the Domain Name System (DNS). Again, practical exercises are used to deepen participants’ understanding.
In addition to the compulsory courses, there are over twenty courses from which students can choose. This allows each student to put together a personal programme tailored to their own interests. “Our MAS offers a unique educational programme. The possible combinations are almost unlimited”, says Dr Matetic.
“Our target group has a common need - they want to integrate high safety standards and practices into their working environment and into their products.”Dr Siniša Matetic, Programme Director
In addition, a Master's thesis offers participants the opportunity to focus on a topic of their choice and make a unique and relevant contribution to cyber security.
Upon completion of the MAS, graduates will be able to apply the theoretical and practical knowledge they have acquired directly to their day-to-day work. At the same time, they will have developed an in-depth technical understanding of the fundamental barriers to information security.
“One of the biggest challenges in cyber security is the widening skills gap, compounded by the rapid adoption of new technologies like AI that demand specialized expertise”, says Ruben Perez, an IT Security Officer and programme participant. “ETH Zurich is addressing these challenges exceptionally well by bridging the gap between policy and hands-on practice, continuous skill development, and promoting a security culture that unites people, processes, and technology”, he adds.
While the MAS in Cyber Security is targeted at experienced IT specialists, the CAS in Cyber Security, which is also being offered, doesn’t require a strong background in computer science. This programme is aimed at professionals from fields such as business, industry, finance, administration or telecommunications. By gaining a deeper understanding of key concepts, terminology, and fundamental aspects of information security, they will be able to engage with cyber security experts on an equal footing and make informed, strategic decisions for their organisations.
Gain a competitive advantage
The demand for professionals with technical understanding of AI and cyber security is growing rapidly. Managers and IT experts who expand their skills in a targeted manner will gain a clear competitive advantage. The MAS AID and the MAS in Cyber Security offer exactly this opportunity - practical, interdisciplinary and scientifically grounded.
Meet the Managers of the MAS-Programmes
Next Saturday, 29 March 2025, the Department of Computer Science will open its doors as part of the Informatiktage (Computer Science Days). The programme managers of both MAS programmes will be available to answer questions from 10.45 to 13.45.
More information
Continuing Education at ETH Zurich
Continuing education at ETH enhances workplace success and supports your career growth. Many of our alumni go on to hold leadership roles in business, government, and society. The School for Continuing Education (SCE) serves as the central hub for lifelong learning at ETH Zurich, offering a diverse range of programmes and courses.
More information: https://sce.ethz.ch/en/
Contact
ETH Zurich
Department of Computer Science
Andreasstrasse 5
OAT Z 22.1
8092
Zurich