Why study for a machine learning engineer degree?

The simple answer is that the industry is growing explosively. Precedence Research points out that the machine learning market was worth $38.11 billion (approx. €35 billion) in 2022. By 2032, it’ll be worth $771.8 billion (approx. €712 billion). That means the machine learning industry will grow by an average of 35.09% per year between now and 2032.

That growth means one thing:

The industry is going to be looking for people with a machine learning engineer education.

If you pursue a machine learning engineer degree with an accredited institution – such as OPIT – you stand to be at the forefront of one of the fastest-growing industries in the world.

Machine Learning Engineer Education: The Foundation of Your Career

You’ll require a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field – such as computer science, at the very minimum, to start a career in machine learning. However, most roles ask for more. A master’s degree in a field like data science or software engineering will make you a more attractive candidate.

Those requirements also indicate the core subjects you’ll study when working toward a degree for machine learning engineer roles. Math, computer science, statistics, and computer science are all fundamentals that are vital to the industry.

As you move onto the master’s track, you’ll start learning more advanced machine-learning concepts, such as algorithms and data analysis.

Degree for Machine Learning Engineer: Choosing the Right Program

Signing up for the first machine learning engineer bachelor’s degree you find is rarely a wise course of action. You need to weigh your options carefully before choosing a course, with the following factors coming into play:

  • Course Content and Curriculum – Look for degrees that include machine learning-specific components – such as feature engineering and model evaluation – ideally with a practical aspect that gives you real-world experience.
  • Course Faculty – The “real-world experience” point also applies to your course’s faculty. The best programs are created by those who have experience in the machine learning industry. They understand what employers want to see, as well as the likely applications for the technical knowledge you’ll develop.
  • Institution Accreditation – A lack of accreditation hurts the credibility of your machine learning engineer degree. Look for a program that’s accredited by a relevant authority, such as the European Qualifications Framework (EQF).
  • The Cost – Master’s degrees in Europe can cost anywhere between €8,000 and €45,000, with the total you’ll pay being a determining factor for which degree you choose. Try to find a balance between the cost and the credibility of the organization offering the degree.

OPIT’s degree programs offer the ideal blend of these factors. They’re affordable – with tuition costing as little as €2,250 per term – and designed by faculty with real-world experience in the machine learning and computer science sector. They’re also accredited by the previously mentioned EQF.

Best Online and Offline Master Programs for Machine Learning Engineering

With the above factors considered, your next choice comes down to location:

Do you study offline or on?

The online course format delivers flexibility, though it means you don’t get to enjoy the on-campus lifestyle. Regardless of which you prefer, the following are the five top machine learning engineer degree courses available in Europe:

OPIT – MSc in Applied Data Science & AI

Beyond excelling in all of the above factors, OPIT’s MSc course offers a mix of live and pre-recorded content to make the online learning experience more interactive. There are no final exams – a relief for students who hate pressure-filled situations – with the course instead focusing on practical assignments with real-world applications.

University of Oxford – MSc in Advanced Computer Science

Offered by one of the U.K.’s leading universities, this MSc takes a broad approach to the AI sector, with machine learning as one of several components. It also covers cybersecurity and the emergence of AI in the medical field. A typical week involves 35 hours of study, eight of which are lectures, with another four covering practical sessions.

University of Cambridge – MPhil in Machine Learning and Machine Intelligence

An 11-month program, this master’s degree covers machine learning, as well as computer vision and robotics, speech and language processing, and how humans interact with computers. Practical exercises also give you a chance to work with Ph.D. students in the machine learning field.

KU Leuven – MSc of Artificial Intelligence

A multidisciplinary program, this master’s degree accepts students with backgrounds in subjects like psychology and economics. As such, it’s a good choice for those who have completed a bachelor’s degree in a non-tech subject and don’t want to restart their education careers. It covers the fundamentals but practically-minded students should beware – the course emphasizes technical knowledge.

Technical University of Munich – Data Engineering and Analytics MSc

Another on-campus degree, TUM’s course covers machine learning, along with key data science techniques such as computer vision and scientific visualization. But the focus is on Big Data – the driving force in everything from machine learning to self-driving vehicles.

The Future of Technology: Machine Learning Applications

You’ve seen the expected industry growth for the machine learning industry, but what about the applications of the knowledge you’ll gain from your machine learning engineer degree?

Simply put – the degree will apply to almost every industry, with a handful of examples including:

  • Facial recognition technology development
  • Financial fraud detection
  • Enhanced analytics for the healthcare sector
  • Predictive analytics
  • Generative AI programs, such as ChatGPT

Online Education Advantages: Flexibility and Accessibility

Let’s assume you’d like to study to become a machine learning engineer but don’t want the on-campus experience for whatever reason. Are online degrees as valuable as their traditional counterparts?

They are, as long as the program is provided by an accredited institution like OPIT. Plus, studying online provides more flexibility in your learning schedule – giving you autonomy in how you complete your studies – and isn’t as individualistic an experience as it seems. For instance, OPIT schedules live video lectures, offers pre-recorded sessions, and creates opportunities for students to work together on real-world projects.

OPIT’s Master’s and Bachelor’s Programs That Help You Become a Machine Learning Engineer

There’s one more thing left to do:

Choose a machine learning engineer degree. OPIT offers three courses that set you on the path to a career in machine learning.

BSc in Modern Computer Science

Think of this course as a foundational machine learning engineer bachelor’s degree. You’ll combine learning about AI with the fundamentals of computer science – programming, data science, and database management, all included.

MSc in Responsible Artificial Intelligence

For those concerned about the ethical implications of AI, the MSc in Responsible Artificial Intelligence covers the machine learning bases. But it also shows you how to use what you’ve learned ethically to create sustainable AI systems.

MSc in Applied Data Science & AI

A more traditional degree for prospective machine learning engineers, this course builds on the previously mentioned BSc, with a specific focus on overcoming real-world problems using machine learning.

Choose OPIT

With the machine learning sector set for such pronounced growth, earning a specialized degree in the field now could set up your career for decades to come. Trust OPIT to provide that degree – it’s an EQF-approved online institution with exceptional degree programs.

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Everything You Need to Know to Join OPIT
OPIT - Open Institute of Technology
OPIT - Open Institute of Technology
Oct 13, 2025 6 min read

OPIT – Open Institute of Technology offers an innovative and exciting way to learn about technology. It offers a range of bachelor’s and master’s programs, plus a Foundation Year program for those taking the first steps towards higher education. Through its blend of instruction-based and independent learning, it empowers ambitious minds with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed.

This guide covers all you need to know to join OPIT and start your educational journey.

Introducing the Open Institute of Technology

Before we dig into the nitty-gritty of the OPIT application process, here’s a brief introduction to OPIT.

OPIT is a fully accredited Higher Education Institution under the European Qualification Framework (EQF) and the MFHEA Authority. It offers exclusively online education in English to an international community of students. With a winning team of top professors and a specific focus on computer science, it trains the technology leaders of tomorrow.

Some of the unique elements that characterize OPIT’s approach include:

  • No final exams. Instead, students undergo progressive assessments over time
  • A job-oriented, practical focus on the courses
  • 24/7 support, including AI assistance and student communities, so everyone feels supported
  • A strong network of company connections, unlocking doors for graduates

Reasons to Join OPIT

There are many reasons for ambitious students and aspiring tech professionals to study with OPIT.

Firstly, since all the study takes place online, it’s a very flexible and pleasant way to learn. Students don’t feel the usual pressures or suffer the same constraints they would at a physical college or university. They can attend from anywhere, including their own homes, and study at a pace that suits them.

OPIT is also a specialist in the technology field. It only offers courses focused on tech and computer science, with a team of professors and tutors who lead the way in these topics. This ensures that students get high-caliber learning opportunities in this specific sector.

Learning at OPIT is also hands-on and applicable to real-world situations, despite taking place online. Students are not just taught core skills and knowledge, but are also shown how to apply those skills and knowledge in their future careers.

In addition, OPIT strives to make technology education as accessible, inclusive, and affordable as possible. Entry requirements are relatively relaxed, fees are fair, and students from around the world are welcome here.

What You Need to Know About Joining OPIT

Now you know why it’s worth joining OPIT, let’s take a closer look at how to go about it. The following sections will cover how to apply to OPIT, entry requirements, and fees.

The OPIT Application Process

Unsurprisingly for an online-only institution, the application process for OPIT is all online, too. Users can submit the relevant documents and information on their computers from the comfort of their homes.

  1. Visit the official OPIT site and click the “Apply now” button to get started, filling out the relevant forms.
  2. Upload your supporting documents. These can include your CV, as well as certificates to prove your past educational accomplishments and level of English.
  3. Take part in an interview. This should last no more than 30 minutes. It’s a chance for you to talk about your ambitions and background, and to ask questions you might have about OPIT.

That’s it. Once you complete the above steps, you will be admitted to your chosen course and can start enjoying OPIT education once the first term begins. You’ll need to sign your admissions contract and pay the relevant fees, then begin classes.

Entry Requirements for OPIT Courses

OPIT offers a small curated collection of courses, each with its own requirements. You can consult the relevant pages on the official OPIT site to find out the exact details.

For the Foundation Program, for example, you simply need an MQF/EQF Level 3 or equivalent qualification. You also need to demonstrate a minimum B2 level of English comprehension.

For the BSc in Digital Business, applicants should have a higher secondary school leaving certificate, plus B2-level English comprehension. You can also support your application with a credit transfer from previous studies or relevant work experience.

Overall, the requirements are simple, and it’s most important for applicants to be ambitious and eager to build successful careers in the world of technology. Those who are driven and committed will get the best from OPIT’s instruction.

Fees and Flexible Payments at OPIT

As mentioned above, OPIT makes technological education accessible and affordable for all. Its tuition fees cover all relevant teaching materials, and there are no hidden costs or extras. The institute also offers flexible payment options for those with different budgets.

Again, exact fees vary depending on which course you want to take, so it’s important to consult the specific info for each one. You can pay in advance to enjoy 10% off the final cost, or refer a friend to also obtain a discount.

In addition to this, OPIT offers need-based and merit-based scholarships. Successful candidates can obtain discounts of up to 40% on bachelor’s and master’s tuition fees. This can substantially bring the term cost of each program down, making OPIT education even more accessible.

Credit Transfers and Experience

Those who are entering OPIT with pre-existing work experience or relevant academic achievements can benefit from the credit transfer program. This allows you to potentially skip certain modules or even entire semesters if you already have relevant experience in those fields.

OPIT is flexible and fair in terms of recognizing prior learning. So, as long as you can prove your credentials and experience, this could be a beneficial option for you. The easiest way to find out more and get started is to email the OPIT team directly.

Join OPIT Today

Overall, the process to join OPIT is designed to be as easy and stress-free as possible. Everything from the initial application forms to the interview and admission process is straightforward. Requirements and fees are flexible, so people in different situations and from different backgrounds can get the education they want. Reach out to OPIT today to take your first steps to tech success.

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The Foundation Year Program at the Open Institute of Technology: All You Need to Know
OPIT - Open Institute of Technology
OPIT - Open Institute of Technology
Oct 13, 2025 6 min read

With the proliferation of the internet, the rise of smart devices, and the emergence of AI, the world has become increasingly technological. Unsurprisingly, then, many young and ambitious minds are eager to engage with technology on a professional scale, planning careers in the field. But to succeed in the complex, evolving world of tech, it helps to have a strong foundation of core skills.

That’s where the Foundation Year Program at the Open Institute of Technology (OPIT) comes into play. This program gives students the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Covering digital business, computer science, mathematics, and other important topics, it prepares tech leaders of tomorrow for the next steps in their development.

Introducing OPIT

The Open Institute of Technology is a fully accredited Higher Education Institution under the European Qualification Framework (EQF) and the MFHEA Authority. It offers both bachelor’s and master’s degrees, in addition to the Foundation Program. OPIT’s mission is to provide high-quality, inclusive, and affordable technology education.

The institute distinguishes itself from other educational establishments as follows:

  • Exclusively online education, delivered in English
  • A team of top professors from leading universities around the globe
  • No final exams, but a system of progressive assessment to track students’ progress organically
  • European-level accreditation
  • Round-the-clock support
  • Affordable prices

Education at OPIT is flexible, focused, and built for career success. Its hands-on approach to learning can unlock countless doors of opportunity for those who enroll.

Learning Methodology for the OPIT Foundation Year

Technology is a rapidly evolving field. However, higher education in technology has stagnated somewhat. That was the view of Riccardo Ocieppo, and it was the reason he founded OPIT. He wanted to provide an innovative, online, and international institution to prepare students for careers in technology in the best ways possible.

OPIT delivers on this mission through an innovative approach to learning. This approach is centered around competence-based teaching. In other words, OPIT not only teaches students foundational skills but also demonstrates the practical, real-world applications of those skills.

In addition, despite being entirely online, the Foundation Program aims to foster a sense of community. Students have continuous access to their peers, tutors, and professors. This way, they always feel part of a team, and they never feel cut off or isolated from their educational community.

An Overview of the Foundation Program

The Foundation Program is OPIT’s sole pre-bachelor program. As its name implies, it focuses on foundational knowledge and skills. It equips students with the education they need to springboard onwards into further education, like a bachelor’s degree. This is invaluable, as too many students have the drive to begin degrees in technology, but lack the required MQF or EQF Level 4 qualification.

The Foundation Program provides a pathway for students in that situation and others. It eases their entry into the professional technological world. Core aims of the program include:

  • Strengthen technical proficiency
  • Development of an understanding of ethical and social responsibility relevant to technology
  • Promotion of a human-centered approach to technology
  • Improvement in core skills like mathematics, English, and computer literacy
  • Creation of an EQF Level 4-tier academic base, so students can proceed into a bachelor’s degree

The Foundation Program lasts for six months and is fully online. It is comprised of two terms, lasting 13 weeks each. Students complete three courses per term, each worth 10 ECTS credits, for a total of 60 credits.

The instruction is delivered in several formats. These include video lectures, learning materials such as e-books, and weekly live sessions. Students must also complete two to three assessments during the course. These, too, can take multiple formats, like tests, essays, and projects.

By the end of the course, students will have a stronger understanding of technology. They will also have gained or improved upon numerous essential skills needed to move on with their education. They will be better prepared to succeed, no matter which direction they choose to follow next.

Student Support Systems

To ensure no student feels isolated or lacking assistance, OPIT offers a strong support system.

For example, the institute’s professors regularly check in with students, answer queries, and provide vital guidance. OPIT also provides an AI assistant that has been specially trained to help students succeed. The OPIT AI Copilot answers questions instantly, finds resources, sums up complex topics, and more. Students can also chat with one another over Slack, so no one will ever feel alone.

Future Prospects

The OPIT Foundation Program is all about preparation. It’s about getting students ready for the next steps, and it unlocks a lot of doors. For those who haven’t got a formal Level 4 qualification, for example, the Foundation Program creates a path to bachelor’s degrees. It lets students move on to a BSc in Digital Business or a BSc in Modern Computer Science, for example.

What’s more, those who intend to continue their education with OPIT receive several big benefits. These include a 25% scholarship reduction in tuition fees for any OPIT bachelor’s program. Plus, those who follow the Foundation Program will become familiar with OPIT’s modes of education and the OPIT community. So, transitioning onward into a degree should be easy and seamless.

Admissions Information and Requirements

For those who are interested in pursuing a foundation year with OPIT, there are certain requirements:

  • Applicants must hold a High School Leaving Certificate in any discipline.
  • They must also demonstrate a certain level of English language ability.

The application process is entirely online. Applicants will have to provide some information and supporting documents. They will be invited to a 30-minute interview to discuss their background and ambitions. Once admitted, it’s simply a matter of signing the relevant paperwork, paying the fees, and officially entering the OPIT community.

A Solid Foundation Year for Future Success

The OPIT Foundation Program breaks the barriers that have prevented ambitious technology enthusiasts from pursuing their dreams. In this exciting sphere, it leads the way towards higher education and gives students the knowledge they need to succeed. It is the ideal way to begin your journey towards a long and fulfilling career in technology.

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