Today it is undisputable that the independence and development of a country depend upon its capacity to be autonomous technologically. Areas such as computing, telematics and informatics have inevitably become of primary importance, whether for their relevance as elements in support of other services or for their direct contribution towards the systems which increasingly regulate the lives of everyone. Computers, telecommunications networks, booted systems and mobile phones are just some leading examples of this.

The Integrated Master's in Computer and Telematics Engineering of the University of Aveiro aims to offer a solid training in basic sciences and a wide range of options in the technologies of computing, information and telecommunications which have assumed a dominant role in the industrial sector and are the main dynamo of development in all advanced economies.

The tradition of the University of Aveiro in this area is strong. Here for example, the Portuguese Search Engine (SAPO) was devised.  The choice of Aveiro as the first Digital City reflects the fact that it is the capital of know-how in this area, and not just the University but also other institutions in the city. In the next few years, projects which have been developed here in connection with the Digital Cities Programme will certainly furnish an excellent arena for the training provided by the Integrated Masters in Computer and Telematics Engineering.

The Department of Electronics, Telecommunications and Informatics has overall responsibility for this study programme.  Founded in 1974, this department has a prestigious record in the areas of computing and telecommunications. The curriculum of this degree programme draws upon the competences acquired since its inception to construct an institutional profile which supplies a solid general training in the area of Informatics Engineering.

Masters graduates in Computer and Telematics Engineering are prepared to play a key role in the new areas which make up the information technologies, the science and engineering of computing and telecommunications.

Thus, they can carry out duties in public and private organisations which engage in research activities, the development and integration/utilisation of new technologies of information and communication for the setting up of new services connected with the digital economy, information systems or for equipping projects.

They will be technically responsible for projecting, adapting or managing solutions in complex systems and information networks.  Their job opportunities are many, from the service sector - where one might mention banking, insurance, tourism, culture and multimedia - to the industrial sector, not forgetting central, local and regional public administration.