Starting from the new academic year, the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI and Yandex Practicum (an online learning service launched by Yandex) are launching two master's degree programs in information technology: Cybersecurity and Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. It is planned that more than 300 students will be accepted for these two programs.
The Master's Degree in Cybersecurity trains specialists capable of protecting digital systems from modern threats. Students choose one of the following areas: "Network Security" — to protect infrastructure and prevent attacks, Application Security (AppSec) — to find and eliminate vulnerabilities in software, or DevSecOps — to integrate security into development processes. Additionally, undergraduates are given the opportunity to participate in the CTF course and subsequent competitions. "In today's world, cyber threats are becoming more difficult, and the demand for qualified security specialists is only growing. Our Master's degree program provides not just knowledge, but practical skills necessary to protect digital systems, analyze attacks, and implement secure solutions. Students learn how to work with real-world cases, master advanced tools and interact with leading industry experts," says Konstantin Kogos, Head of the Institute for Intelligent Cybernetic Systems at the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI.
The Master's Degree in Data Science and AI trains specialists in key areas of artificial intelligence. There are also several tracks within this program: "Data-Engineering", namely, familiarization with the methods and metrics of business analysis, system analysis and data preparation, as well as the track "Data Science", that is, mastering machine learning, working with algorithms and developing in Python. The second area, in turn, is divided into three more specializations for a deeper study of one of them: "Machine Learning", where they teach how to create and implement ML models, immerse themselves in domain areas dedicated to recommendation systems and Uplift modeling.; "CV", where they teach how to develop AI models for working with images and videos, as well as "NLP" for applying natural language processing practices to solve business problems.
"The program provides all the necessary technological stack for working as an ML and Data engineer, Data Analyst. You will be able to choose for yourself the area of AI in which you want to develop. The program includes the study of both the mathematical basis for all AI technologies, as well as a large practical part in the field of development, solving business cases and practical tasks, which will allow students to build a career in leading technology companies," says Pavel Ryabov, head of the program, Deputy Director of the Institute of Laser and Plasma Technologies at the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI. Plus, students will have the opportunity to get acquainted with the work of the university's Research Center for Artificial Intelligence in the field of logistics and transport.
Applicants to the joint MEPhI and Yandex Practicum programs receive, on the one hand, all the advantages of full-time education: a deferral from the army and student benefits, and on the other hand, they can study without interrupting their usual lives, since lectures take place in the evenings, and everything else is at a convenient time for students. At the same time, students get remote access to the university's cloud infrastructure and supercomputers, world-class laboratories, coworking spaces and university spaces.
As Konstantin Kogos explains, about half of the subjects in the framework of joint programs will be taught by MEPhI teachers, and the other half by Yandex specialists. MEPhI teachers are primarily responsible for fundamental and theoretical training, while representatives of the partner company are responsible for applied disciplines. At the same time, not only bachelor's degree graduates can enroll in the educational program — they can be anyone with higher education, working in the field of information technology, and those who want to change their subject area or improve their competencies in relevant areas. Considering that there may be people with different levels of knowledge among applicants, the program provides "leveling" courses that should help new students fill in the missing knowledge.
"Students will have the opportunity to write a master's thesis both at the university and at partner companies, including Yandex as the main educational partner of the program. Graduates will work in relevant fields," explains Konstantin Kogos.
As Forbes magazine previously reported (external link), Yandex Practicum plans to train almost 10,000 specialists in AI professions by the end of 2027.
