Natural Language Processing

Education facts

Code: 5DV218

This course is an introduction to Natural Language Processing (NLP) for students already proficient in programming and machine learning. The aim is to provide a solid background in theory and techniques used to accomplish different NLP tasks such as understanding and generating natural language. As NLP technologies are used by many people every day, and inform many other "AI" systems, special focus will be given to questions of ethics, equity, and the social impact of these technologies. The course covers a mix of techniques, including rule-based, statistical, and machine learning methods for NLP. Since language data is at the core of many modern NLP techniques, the course will additionally cover assessment of data quality, as well as developing an understanding of complex issues of representation and data ownership. Basic concepts and methodology from linguistics are introduced, including aspects of how language is constructed and used, and the importance of context. These are used to ground an understanding both of how effective solutions to NLP tasks are constructed, and the challenges of doing so for various languages. Beyond this theoretical grounding, there will be practical exercises and assignments focusing on applying various techniques to address tasks within NLP. The coursework also includes actively participating in seminars and writing reports. The programming language Python is used, but the language is not taught during the course.

Entry requirements

At least 90 ECTS, including 60 ECTS Computing Science, or at least 120 ECTS within a study programme. At least 7.5 ECTS data structures and algorithms; 7.5 ECTS discrete mathematics; 7.5 ECTS formal languages and 7.5 ECTS machine learning. Proficiency in English equivalent to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.

Education offerings

Each offering has its own dates and conditions. Closed offerings are retained as history and do not mean that a new application is open.

• Natural Language Processing

  Umeå University

  Umeå

  Start date: 31 August 2026

  End date: 1 November 2026

  Pace of study: 50 %