Linguistic Computing

/ Overview

The Graduate Degree Programme in Linguistic Computing is a two-year Master of Science (MSc) programme at Università Cattolica in Milan. It combines an interdisciplinary approach to theoretical and computational linguistics with technologies for automated language processing.

As part of the Linguistics degree class, the programme offers a specifically linguistic and methodological perspective, distinguishing it from related programmes with a stronger focus on computer science.

The programme focuses on the analysis and processing of linguistic data, with particular attention to artificial intelligence and language models. Students develop the skills needed to understand how language-processing systems work and use them in an informed way, learning not only how to use these tools but also how to guide their processes and outputs.

The programme is taught entirely in English and has a strong international outlook, supported by the presence of international students, participation in academic networks and collaboration with European and international universities.

Teaching follows a blended learning approach, combining face-to-face and online activities, opportunities for direct interaction and flexible learning tools. Recordings of lectures and practical sessions also provide important support for consolidating particularly complex theoretical and applied content.

The programme follows a progressive structure: in the first year, students acquire the theoretical, methodological and technical foundations of automated linguistic analysis, while in the second year they further develop their skills through workshops, applied projects and development activities, with a strongly practical and project-based approach.

A further distinctive feature of the programme is the combination of advanced language skills and computational skills, enabling students to work with linguistic data in digital and multilingual contexts. This interdisciplinary profile responds to the growing demand for professionals able to analyse, interpret and make effective use of linguistic information in artificial intelligence-based systems.

The programme does not require advanced computing skills on entry, but gradually supports students in developing a methodological and computational approach focused on a critical understanding of language technologies.

Why choose Linguistic computing at Università Cattolica?

The programme prepares professionals to understand and use language technologies and artificial intelligence systems in an informed way, combining humanities and computational skills through a highly interdisciplinary approach.

Artificial intelligence and language models

Understanding of language-processing systems and informed use of AI tools.

Linguistics and digital technologies

Integration of language study, communication and computational approaches.

Interdisciplinary skills

Skills applicable in business, communication, healthcare, legal and technological contexts.

International dimension

English-taught programme with a strong international academic and professional outlook.

Field experience

Participation in internships, projects and collaborations with companies and organisations.

Analytical and project-based approach

Development of analytical, problem-solving and project design skills applied to linguistic data.

The programme prepares professionals to interpret and manage the complexity of contemporary digital communication, with increasingly strategic skills for AI-driven contexts.

95

%

Overall student satisfaction with the degree programme

100

%

Positive evaluation of the language skills acquired

83

%

Positive evaluation of the writing skills acquired

Source: Satisfaction among students who completed the degree programme, as measured in the latest survey of graduating students, calendar year 2025.

/ Study Plan

Programme structure

The Graduate Degree Programme in Linguistic Computing progressively integrates linguistic, methodological and computational skills, combining theoretical foundations, practical applications and project-based activities.

First year

The first year provides the theoretical and methodological foundations of automated linguistic analysis and language-processing technologies.

Computational linguistics: introduction to the main models of language analysis and representation.
Natural Language Processing: study of methods and tools for the automated processing of linguistic data.
Language models and artificial intelligence: understanding how AI systems applied to language work.
Computational skills: progressive development of methodological and technical tools for data analysis.
Multilingual dimension: further development of language skills in international and digital contexts.

Second year

The second year focuses on the practical application of the skills acquired through laboratories, projects and professionally oriented activities.

Laboratory and applied projects: practical use of tools and methodologies for automated linguistic analysis.
Development of digital tools: design of applications and solutions for language processing.
Linguistic data analysis: management and interpretation of textual data in multilingual and digital contexts.
Professional experience: internships and collaborations with companies, institutions and organisations in the sector.
Final project and research: development of project and research activities with a strong applied component.

The programme combines theoretical learning with practical experimentation, preparing professionals to work in an informed way in the fields of language technologies and artificial intelligence.

View the study plan

Teaching approach

The Graduate Degree Programme in Linguistic Computing combines theoretical learning, applied activities and direct engagement with professional and research contexts, with a strong focus on internationalisation and language technologies.

Internships and field activities: practical experience in companies, institutions and organisations operating in the technology, healthcare, legal and digital sectors.
Laboratory and applied projects: practical activities focusing on linguistic data analysis, language models and applications of artificial intelligence.
Collaboration with industry and professional organisations: direct engagement with companies and organisations involved in developing and using language technologies.
Research involvement: participation in scientific conferences and presentation of research projects and activities in national and international contexts.
International experiences: visits, activities and collaborations with European research centres and universities active in computational linguistics.
European academic networks: participation in international collaborations and programmes such as Erasmus Mundus in the field of Linguistic Data Science.

The teaching approach supports the development of technical, analytical and project skills, preparing students to work in international and highly innovative technological contexts.

Girls in the cloisters of the University

/ Admission

The admission process

Find admission information based on whether you hold an Italian or international qualification*

To apply for the Graduate Degree Programme in Linguistic computing, you must meet the academic entry requirements and follow the admission procedures and deadlines.

Here are the main steps to follow:

01

Check admission dates and procedures

Academic year 2026/27

You can still apply for this programme for the 2026/27 academic year.

View admission procedures

Academic year 2027/28

The admission procedures for 2027/28, including information on how and when to apply, will be available soon.

02

Prepare the required documents

Make sure you have all the documents you need to submit your application.

More information: Required documents

Passport-style photograph – Accepted formats: JPG, JPEG. Maximum file size: 10 MB.
Identity document – Identity card, passport or driving licence. Accepted formats: PNG, JPG, JPEG, TIFF, PDF. Maximum file size: 10 MB.
Italian fiscal code (codice fiscale) – Accepted formats: PNG, JPG, JPEG, TIFF, PDF. Maximum file size: 10 MB.
English language certificate – Level B2 or above.
Residence permit (if required) – Accepted formats: PNG, JPG, JPEG, TIFF, PDF. Maximum file size: 10 MB.
Self-certification of degree and examinations taken, including SSD and CFU.
Baptism certificate – If you do not have one, you will receive further information about the alternative documentation you can submit.

03

Register or log in to the Enrolment Portal

If you don't have an account yet, register on the Enrolment Portal. If you already have one, log in using your credentials.

04

Check whether you meet the academic entry requirements

For the verification of curricular requirements, enter the details of the undergraduate degree you have completed or are currently completing in the Enrolment Portal.

Include the courses/modules in your study plan, specifying the scientific-disciplinary sector (SSD) and credits (CFU) for each one. For exams you have passed, also provide your grades and exam dates.

The outcome will indicate whether you meet the academic requirements for admission to the programme and provide information on the next steps.

05

Reserve your place

If the check confirms that you meet the academic entry requirements, you can reserve your place by paying the first instalment of tuition fees through the Enrolment Portal.

You can do this even before you have completed your undergraduate degree.

06

Complete pre-enrolment or enrolment

If you have not yet completed your undergraduate degree, you must first pre-enrol. Once you have graduated, you can complete the enrolment process.

At this stage, you will need to provide a self-certification of your degree and examinations taken, along with a certificate of baptism. If you do not have a certificate of baptism, you can submit alternative documentation as specified in the Enrolment Portal.

You must enter your income details by the end of November using the "Income statement" (Compila Redditi) application, available on your personal iCatt page.

* The information provided is subject to the approval of the competent bodies and may be subject to change

Useful information

Practical information to help you enrol and get started at Università Cattolica.

English Test

Admission to certain degree programmes, or the inclusion of courses/modules taught in English in your study plan, requires an adequate level of English language proficiency.

You can demonstrate your proficiency by submitting one of the recognised language certificates listed in the relevant admission procedures or by taking the English Test organised by the Language Centre of Università Cattolica.

Applicants with disabilities or Specific Learning Disorders (SLD)

Students with disabilities or Specific Learning Disorders (SLD) can access learning aids and adjustments to study and assessment arrangements. Full details are available in the University's Services for Inclusion section.

Learn more about Services for Inclusion

Transfers, programme changes, second degrees and resuming studies

Applicants wishing to change programmes within Università Cattolica, transfer from another university, pursue a second degree or resume their university studies must meet the entry requirements.

Find out more

Notices

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English Test

More information: English Test

/ Fees and funding

Tuition fees and financial support

Tuition fees and scholarships

Starting university often involves questions about fees, deadlines and the support available. Clear information about financial support and accommodation options helps students plan their studies with confidence, allowing them to focus on their academic progress and personal development.

Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, through EDUCatt, offers income- and merit-based scholarships and graduation awards, providing financial support to help students continue their studies.

Visit the dedicated section for information on tuition fees and other costs, use the online fee simulator, and find out about available financial support.

Find out more

Students take notes during an outdoor study activity.

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Student accommodation

Università Cattolica offers a range of housing options to support students throughout their studies.

On campus residences

Nine residences are located on or near Università Cattolica campuses. They offer an educational experience that goes beyond accommodation, with cultural activities, meetings and workshops that complement university study. Residence life also provides opportunities to be part of an active community, exchange ideas and share experiences.

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Residences in the city

Residences located across the city are well connected to Università Cattolica campuses. They offer students greater independence in their day-to-day life, while providing comfortable accommodation and the flexibility to balance study, social life and personal time.

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/ International experiences

Study, internships and volunteering abroad

During your studies at Università Cattolica, you can gain international experience as part of your academic journey. Studying, doing an internship or volunteering abroad gives you the chance to experience new academic, professional and cultural environments, improve your language skills and develop an international perspective that can enrich your studies and support your future career.

Discover the opportunities to study, undertake an internship or volunteer abroad:

Semester abroad

Double degrees

Language courses and certifications

Summer programmes

Internships abroad

International volunteering

Thesis abroad

Short programmes

Virtual programmes

You can include an experience abroad as part of your studies. For programmes involving exams abroad, you can check in advance whether they can be recognised, following the guidance provided by your Faculty and discussing this with the relevant academic staff.

Find out more

/ Internships and careers

Internships and career opportunities

The programme offers a range of internship opportunities, enabling students to apply the skills acquired in real-world professional settings.

Internships and professional training

The curricular internship is a training experience that allows students to apply in practice the skills acquired during their studies, while gaining experience in professional settings related to language technologies, data and artificial intelligence.

The internship may be undertaken in companies, institutions and organisations operating in a range of fields, including digital services, communication, healthcare, legal services and technology, and in many cases is integrated into the thesis project.

The internship workload varies according to the number of ECTS included in the study plan: 100 hours for 4 ECTS, 150 hours for 6 ECTS or 200 hours for 8 ECTS.

The programme also offers the opportunity to undertake internships abroad and, subject to the relevant requirements, to request recognition of relevant work experience undertaken during the programme. Each request is assessed on the basis of the tasks performed and the documentation submitted.

The internship provides an important opportunity for career guidance and direct engagement with practical applications of language technologies.

The Career Service supports students and graduates as they prepare to enter the job market, providing career guidance and resources to help them navigate different professional and organisational contexts. It supports the development of transversal skills, creates opportunities to meet employers and helps students develop an informed and coherent career path.

Every year, more than 20,000 students take part in events organised with over 100 partner companies, and more than 9,500 undertake an internship with support from the Career Service and internship tutors.

Find out more

Learning outcomes

By the end of the programme, graduates of Linguistic Computing develop advanced interdisciplinary skills that integrate linguistics, data analysis and computational methods, with a particular focus on applications of artificial intelligence to language.

Linguistic data analysis

Management, structuring and automated processing of textual and spoken data using Natural Language Processing tools.

Artificial intelligence and language models

Understanding how AI systems work and informed use of language models.

Design of digital solutions

Analysis of complex problems and development of solutions based on data, language and computational approaches.

Digital knowledge management

Organisation and effective use of linguistic information through digital resources and Semantic Web tools.

Content production and analysis

Design and interpretation of content for the Web and digital communication environments.

Advanced language skills

Use of at least two foreign languages in international and multilingual contexts.

Project management and interdisciplinary work

Teamwork and management of projects integrating linguistic, technological and organisational skills.

Analytical and interpretative skills

Assessment of complex problems and critical interpretation of data analysis results.

Computational thinking

Development of a structured approach to understanding digital language systems and designing effective solutions.

Career prospects

The Graduate Degree Programme in Linguistic Computing prepares professionals to work at the intersection of language, data and digital technologies, with skills applicable in public- and private-sector settings where artificial intelligence and linguistic data analysis are increasingly used.

Language technologies and artificial intelligence

Work involving automated language processing, language models and AI systems.

Linguistic data analysis

Management, interpretation and effective use of textual and spoken data in digital contexts.

Digital and web content

Design, production and analysis of content for digital platforms and environments.

Knowledge management and Semantic Web

Organisation of knowledge and development of information systems based on linguistic data.

Customer interaction and digital communication

Analysis of linguistic interactions to improve communication services and processes.

Digital transformation of organisations

Support for business processes and strategies using data and language technologies.

By combining theoretical learning, laboratory activities and internships, the programme enables students to develop skills that can be applied directly in professional settings, in a sector with growing demand for professionals specialising in artificial intelligence and language analysis.

Graduate employment rates

After 1 year

Source: The percentages relating to employment opportunities refer to graduates in 2024 (if 1 year after graduation), 2022 (if 3 years after graduation) and 2020 (if 5 years old)

Our Alumni

After graduation, alumni work for national and multinational companies operating in language technologies, artificial intelligence, digital services and data analysis.

The skills developed during the programme also prepare them to work in innovative fields related to digital communication, automated language processing, and content and information management in multilingual environments.

Employers include, for example, PwC Italy, Basta Urban Italian, Hewlett Packard Enterprise and Oracle.

View our Alumni on LinkedIn

Continuing your studies

The Graduate Degree Programme in Linguistic Computing provides advanced, interdisciplinary preparation, enabling students to continue their studies both in academia and through highly specialised professional pathways.

Doctoral Programmes: further study in areas related to computational linguistics, Natural Language Processing and language technologies.
Specialising Master Programmes and advanced training: specialisation in areas related to artificial intelligence, data analysis and digital communication.
International research: participation in scientific projects in national and international academic contexts.
Interdisciplinary pathways: further study of topics combining language, data and digital technologies.

By combining linguistic, computational and analytical skills, the programme provides a solid foundation for students to further develop their profile in scientific, technological and professional contexts.

/ Advising and support

Choosing your programme

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