Aquincum Institute of Technology
About AIT Budapest
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Aquincum Institute of Technology (AIT) offers a unique English-language study abroad program tailored to North American undergraduates majoring in computer science, software engineering, and related fields. Rooted in Hungary's rich tradition of innovation in computing, AIT provides a distinctive educational experience where students can explore the origins of pioneers like John von Neumann, Andy Grove, and Charles Simonyi, who laid the foundation for modern computing during their studies in Budapest.
Continuing this tradition of pioneering education, AIT assembles a world-class faculty of globally recognized scholars, designers, and entrepreneurs. The academic program emphasizes interactivity and creativity, with small class sizes typically ranging from 10 to 20 students. To ensure individualized attention and maintain the highest quality of instruction, AIT enrolls no more than 100 students per semester.
Founded in 2007 by accomplished Hungarian software entrepreneur Gábor Bojár, AIT aims to provide an exceptional study abroad experience for North American undergraduates majoring in IT fields. AIT's curriculum seamlessly integrates fundamental computer science courses with advanced applications, creative design, entrepreneurship, and humanities courses that delve into Hungary's cultural heritage.
Distinguished Faculty
AIT boasts a distinguished faculty that includes luminaries such as:
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Ernő Rubik (Inventor of Rubik's Cube)
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Péter Csermely (Vice President of the Hungarian Biochemical Society, Ashoka Fellow, and corresponding member of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences)
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Gábor Bojár (Founder of Graphisoft, the most successful global software company from Central Europe)
Global Perspective on IT Education
While the United States leads the world in IT, AIT provides a unique opportunity for North American students to gain insights into how small companies can successfully enter the global IT market. Often, small U.S. companies overlook the global IT market, assuming it's reserved for industry giants. However, in today's interconnected world, every company, regardless of size, is global thanks to the internet. Small to medium-sized companies, which employ 80% of computer science graduates in the U.S., must understand and embrace cultural diversity to thrive globally.
In Hungary, where the domestic market is limited, even the smallest firms must learn to be global competitors. Hungary's historical and geographical position at the crossroads of four distinct cultures - Byzantine, Slavic, Latin, and Germanic - equips it with unique cultural adaptability skills. These skills are invaluable for companies seeking success in the global marketplace. AIT, drawing from Hungary's proud intellectual heritage, is excited to impart these skills to computer science majors from North American institutions.
Budapest: A Vibrant Academic Hub
Situated in Budapest, AIT's campus lies adjacent to the ancient Roman town of Aquincum, at the epicenter of European culture. Nestled along the picturesque Danube River, Budapest offers a rich cultural tapestry that enriches the academic experience.
AIT's campus is part of Graphisoft Park, a state-of-the-art science park hosting over 70 R&D and pharmaceutical companies, including Microsoft, SAP, Servier, Canon, and Graphisoft. This ecosystem enhances learning by fostering close collaboration with industry leaders.
AIT Campus
AIT's campus is a historical factory building thoughtfully repurposed to meet the needs of a contemporary educational institution. Designed with students in mind, the campus provides a friendly environment with facilities such as a student lounge, kitchen, study rooms, textbook access, Wi-Fi, and showers. All AIT classes take place within this building, creating a "second home" where students can study, socialize, and relax between classes.
On-Campus Facilities and Services
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Within Graphisoft Park, students have access to numerous facilities and services, including:
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8 Cafeterias and snack bars
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Bike storage
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Visitor parking
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ATMs
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Shuttle bus service
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Nearby large supermarkets
Academic Excellence at AIT
AIT offers semester-long programs specifically designed for North American computer science and software engineering undergraduates in their sophomore through senior years. Courses are taught in English by eminent Hungarian professors, many of whom have taught in North American universities. The academic program emphasizes depth of understanding through small, intimate classes, collaborative student-faculty interactions, and hands-on group projects.
The curriculum is divided into four course groups:
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Foundational Courses in Computer Science
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Advanced Applications
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Creative Design and Entrepreneurship
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Humanities Courses Related to Hungary's Cultural Heritage
Students can select courses from these groups to create a personalized academic plan. Classes are designed to foster creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
Summer Programs at AIT
AIT offers a 5-week summer program where students can earn 6 AIT credits. Courses offered during the summer focus on mobile application development and Budapest Studies. These courses provide students with practical skills and cultural insights.
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Mobile Software Development: This course blends theory and practice, allowing students to develop, design, and implement their own mobile apps.
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Budapest Studies: This course delves into Budapest's past and present, offering cultural and historical perspectives.
Tuition Costs
Tuition costs for in-class education at AIT are as follows (in USD):
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2023 Spring Semester: $17,500
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2023 Summer Term: $4,500
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2023 Fall Semester: $17,500
Tuition covers participation in AIT courses, individual faculty mentoring, and personal support from the AIT staff, including services like airport pick-up, orientation, and housing assistance.
An Enriching Study Abroad Experience
AIT Budapest offers an enriching study abroad experience that combines academic excellence, cultural immersion, and practical skills development. Join AIT and explore the world of computer science in one of Europe's most vibrant and culturally diverse cities. Your transformative educational journey awaits!
