The Writing Machine: Language Models and Artificial Intelligence

The University of Coimbra, founded in 1290 and located in the historic city of Coimbra, is one of Europe’s oldest universities and a UNESCO cultural landmark. With about 25,580 students, including roughly 4,351 international students, the university blends centuries of academic tradition with a vibrant, international campus life. Its historic colleges, libraries and concert halls coexist with modern research centers across disciplines from law and humanities to engineering and biomedical sciences.

Coimbra offers a broad academic portfolio with strong research output, international exchange programs and multidisciplinary centers that foster innovation. The university is especially well known for its law, arts, social sciences and health faculties, and it participates actively in Erasmus and global partnerships that facilitate study abroad and collaborative research. Students benefit from structured academic advising, language support and numerous cultural activities tied to the city’s student traditions.

Student life is shaped by rich traditions, lively academic societies and a compact city layout that makes it easy to combine study and cultural exploration. International students enjoy access to modern facilities, research opportunities and a welcoming community with a strong focus on academic excellence and cultural exchange. For those seeking a historically rich European university experience with robust research networks and an active international student community, the University of Coimbra offers a compelling academic and cultural environment.

The Writing Machine is a non-degree course offered by the University of Coimbra in Portugal, focusing on Language Models and Artificial Intelligence. It's a 3-year program taught in Portuguese, suitable for individuals with or without a degree in STEAM areas. The main advantage is gaining practical insights into Large Language Models and their implications in society.

The curriculum explores the principles behind LLMs, including hands-on experience with AI-based tools like ChatGPT and prompting techniques. Students will critically evaluate AI-generated responses and address ethical considerations like bias and privacy. The course prepares students to navigate the complexities of AI in real-world scenarios.

Graduates can pursue roles such as AI Consultant, Data Analyst, Content Creator, and Digital Marketing Specialist. They will work in industries like technology, education, and creative sectors, and integrate AI responsibly into their professional practices. The skills acquired are transferable across industries, enabling graduates to work effectively in various fields.