Student profiles, prerequisites
The Master CCA targets students who have a strong background and taste for Computer Science and/or Mathematics. Students recruited in the first year of the Master degree have generally obtained their Bachelor's Degree either in Computer Science, or in a dual/double program in Informatics and Mathematics, or in a Mathematics program which includes courses on algorithms and programming. Students recruited in the second year come mostly from engineering schools but also from other Master degrees whose course offering in the first year has substantial connections to that of CCA.
In this degree, it is assumed that the students already have the following prerequisite background, which is mainly about general knowledge from undergraduate Computer Science:
- in algorithms and data structures on the one hand, and programming on the other hand (due to the studied notions, some skills in C language is beneficial, but it is not necessary — it can be acquired during the Master).
- a good knowledge of basic math: notably in arithmetics, algebra (particularly linear algebra which is intensively used in several teaching units of the program), calculus, and some basic understanding of probabilities.
Having been introduced to cryptology will surely help, but is not necessary.
A good understanding and expression in English (around A2 and B1 level at least) is a requirement, since several courses have lectures in English (tutorial and practical sessions remain offered in French as well).