Computational Science and Engineering

CSE is a multidisciplinary application-driven field that deals with the development and application of computational models and simulations. Intricate, e.g., multiscale and multiphysics, problems arising in engineering analysis and the study of natural phenomena can often only be simulated using high-performance computing facilities. Understanding the strengths and limitations of such high-end computing platforms is necessary when designing efficient and robust algorithms that return solutions with controllable accuracy. Advanced numerical methods, systematic software design, documentation and validation of the solution method and the associated code are all equally important in the development of reliable and maintainable computational models.

The CSE minor offers an opportunity for excelling students to deepen their knowledge and understanding of computational modeling, numerical methods, computer science and scientific programming. The program spans several departments within the Delft University of Technology and dozens of research areas. This minor aims to be a stepping stone towards MSc programs focused on computational science and engineering or having a strong CSE component.

The minor gives a coherent introduction to Computational Science and Engineering. A priority concern of the CSE minor is the development of a coordinated curriculum that follows a multidisciplinary approach and serves computationally-oriented graduate students throughout science and engineering.

After successful completion of the minor the student is able to:

• Understand and apply numerical methods to approximate solutions of deterministic and stochastic partial differential equations and analyze the errors in such approximations.
• Parallelize existing algorithms and be able to explain how the properties of an algorithm and a parallel computer influence the computational efficiency.
• Implement a given numerical algorithm in a systematic way using thorough testing, debugging, profiling and documenting procedures.
• Develop computer programs based on the objected-oriented programming approach and apply modern meta-programming techniques, like function overloading and compile-time parametrization of classes to achieve high code efficiency and maintainability.
• Review and reflect on current and future literature in computational engineering. Document and write reports on numerical solution methods, including validation, testing and numerical experiments.
• Quickly immerse into a new research field, applying the skills and competences acquired in the minor courses while doing the Final Project.

Registration for this thematic minor is on a first-come, first-served basis and available places. (No lottery draw).

For whom?

• BSc Students from the following departments of Delft University of Technology are considered to satisfy the prior knowledge requiremements: Aerospace Engineering (AE), Applied Sciences (AS), Civil Engineering and Geosciences (CEG), Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) and Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering (3mE).

• For BSc students from other Universities, it is important to know that the CSE minor is only intended for students with a strong background in calculus, linear algebra and basic numerical mathematics, who have some prior programming experience as well. Students are strongly advised to carefully study the requirements of the individual courses in the program of the CSE minor. This minor is challenging and requires your full commitment.

Student at Leiden University, TU Delft or Erasmus University Rotterdam?
Check the eligibility matrix to see if your bachelor’s degree programme offers access to this and other minors at https://www.tudelft.nl/minor

Student at another educational institution?
External students cannot register via EduXchange. Interested in this minor, read the whole registration procedure at https://www.tudelft.nl/minor

For information about the courses, visit the TU Delft study guide.
For additional information on this minor, visit the TU Delft minor page.

The CSE minor consists of five courses and an integrating Final Project. Typically, the courses feature lectures, graded supervised or take-home practical assignments, and an exam (see the Study Guide for details about each specific course).

In the Final Project students working in groups of 3-7 people apply their newly attained skills to solve a real-life computational problem posed by one of the member departments of the TU Delft Institute for Computational Science and Engineering (DCSE).
The final project is split up into two phases - Part A and Part B. In the first phase the students will perform a literature study that will lead to a set of properly posed and focused research questions and a feasible time schedule. In the second phase the students will perform the actual research, report and present their findings. The final projects are supervised by experienced staff from the DCSE member departments.

Check the detailed overview of courses, learning activities and study load at https://www.studyguide.tudelft.nl/