At a time when artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming nearly every industry, the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Rijeka has taken a major step towards the future of education. The Faculty Council has initiated the accreditation process for two new study programmes: “Umjetna inteligencija u inženjerstvu” (taught in Croatian) and “Artificial Intelligence in Engineering” (taught in English).
These study programmes are the first undergraduate programmes at a university in Croatia to combine traditional engineering disciplines with advanced AI technologies. The new programmes build upon the Faculty’s existing degrees in Computing, Mechatronics and Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Naval Architecture. In doing so, the Faculty of Engineering expands its position as a leader in modern technical education, preparing experts for the industries of tomorrow.
The curriculum is structured to provide students with a multidisciplinary engineering foundation during the first two years. The third year offers the opportunity to specialize in one of five highly attractive fields:
Smart Energy and Sustainable Systems,
Digital Manufacturing,
Computational Environmental Engineering,
Product Development, and
Applied Computer Systems.
Each module focuses on an area currently shaping global technological development. The Applied Computer Systems module focuses on deep learning, network technologies, embedded systems, and software engineering. For students interested in the energy sector, the Smart Energy and Sustainable Systems module covers green energy, smart grids, and data-driven energy systems. The Computational Environmental Engineering module merges advanced modelling with digital technologies to address environmental protection and climate change.
The remaining two modules specifically target future-oriented industries. The Digital Manufacturing module provides students with expertise in advanced CAD, CAM, and CNC systems, quality control, and the digital transformation of manufacturing processes. The Product Development module covers modern digital product development methods, robotics, mechatronic systems, and predictive materials engineering.
A core focus of these programmes is practical experience, allowing students to work on projects and build the exact skills demanded by the job market. Collaboration with the industry partners will provide early career opportunities for students, often while they are still studying.
By launching these study programmes in both Croatian and English, the Faculty of Engineering in Rijeka is directly responding to rapid technological shifts and the growing global demand for experts who can both understand and build AI-driven systems. Offering an English-taught degree strengthens the Faculty’s international profile and attracts international students, reinforcing its goal of becoming a regional hub of excellence in AI and engineering.
While the global demand for AI experts continues to grow, the Faculty of Engineering in Rijeka is already providing a solution.
