Teaching at ISIMA aims to cover, if not exhaustively, at least very representatively, all the techniques, notions, and concepts used in computer-related fields. In constant evolution, computer science is both a field in its own right and an interface to many applications. ISIMA is therefore required to address both aspects.
This approach, strongly emphasized at ISIMA, aims to facilitate the best possible communication between Designers and Users, encompassing in the same framework:
- The use of Computer Science as a tool for calculation and scientific development, integrating into multidisciplinary design processes.
- The use of Computer Science as a means for storing and communicating information, and consequently, as a tool for management and decision-making in enterprises.
- The design and maintenance of the Computer Science tool at the basic software level (Networks, Systems, …).
- The design of this tool at its physical level and its integration into automated production systems, embedded systems, or Telecommunications systems.
In practice, the program is delivered over three years. The first year is a common core year. The following two years are based on a strong common core, and students specialize in one of the following five options (based on their first-year results and preferences):
- F1 – Interactive Systems Computing for Embedded Systems, Robotics, and Virtual Reality.
- F2 – Software Engineering and Computer Systems.
- F3 – Information Systems and Decision Support.
- F4 – Optimization and Artificial Intelligence
- F5 – Networks and Computer Security.
Optional courses are also offered in the field of entrepreneurship.
A 4 to 6-month internship in a company (in France or abroad) separates the second and third years. Another 5 to 6-month internship concludes the program. A curriculum through a professionalization contract is also possible in the third year.
An international experience is mandatory to validate the ISIMA diploma.
This experience can take various forms: a semester of study or a double degree abroad, an internship in a foreign company or laboratory, and more.
During their third year, students can also enroll in one of the following programs:
- Master’s in Computer Science.
- Master’s in Mathematics.
- Master’s in Robotics.
- Master’s in Management and Business Administration.
- Master’s in Industrial Engineering.
- Or at one of the 13 universities with which ISIMA has agreements: Harbin (China), Oklahoma (USA), Quebec, and more. Please refer to the International section for details.
Students will benefit from reduced course loads compared to the standard curriculum.
Lastly, they can extend their studies with an optional fourth year of specialization.
This can be summarized by the following diagram:
Assessment
Assessment is carried out every year, based on a regular session consisting of exams and assessments, supplemented by a second session (September). Students pass their year if, at the end of this process, they have achieved an average score of 10 or higher in theoretical exams and have successfully defended their internship (for the second and third years). If the conditions are not met, students may consider repeating the year.
Languages Taught
Two languages are mandatory at ISIMA: English as LV1, and German, Spanish, Mandarin, or Japanese as LV2. LV1 and LV2 are studied in parallel and equally over the three years. A level test in LV1 and LV2 (German or Spanish) is conducted at the beginning of the first year, during the orientation week, to form language groups. It is possible for students to take an LV3. To validate their ISIMA diploma, students must obtain a score of 800 or more on the TOEIC English test.