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Tampere University Student’s Guide

Course unit, curriculum year 2025–2026
COMP.CS.530

Fine-tuning Large Language Models (LLM), 5–10 cr

Tampere University
Teaching periods
Active in period 3 (1.1.2026–1.3.2026)
Active in period 4 (2.3.2026–31.5.2026)
Course code
COMP.CS.530
Language of instruction
English
Academic years
2024–2025, 2025–2026, 2026–2027
Level of study
Advanced studies
Grading scale
General scale, 0-5
Persons responsible
Responsible teacher:
Pekka Abrahamsson
Responsible organisation
Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences 100 %
Coordinating organisation
Computing Sciences Studies 100 %

This course provides a detailed exploration into the practical application, ethical considerations, and open-source landscape of fine-tuning large language models (LLMs) for students with basic programming skills. Beginning with foundational data management techniques, the curriculum emphasizes the critical role of high-quality, privacy-conscious dataset preparation, specifically tailored to enhance open-source LLMs. Through detailed instruction on the architecture and functionality of these models, students will gain insight into the vast potential and challenges of working with open-source AI technologies. Throughout the course, participants will engage in practical exercises and projects that apply fine-tuning techniques to open-source LLMs, emphasizing the creation of AI systems that are not only technologically advanced but also ethically sound, transparent, and secure. This hands-on experience is designed to equip students with the technical skills necessary to contribute to and innovate within the open-source AI community.

Learning outcomes
Prerequisites
Further information
Learning material
Studies that include this course
Completion option 1
5 ECTS for completing core modules and practical labs

Participation in teaching

07.01.2026 25.02.2026
Active in period 3 (1.1.2026–1.3.2026)
Completion option 2
Choose Assessment Item 2, if you want to complete both parts: 5 ECTS for completing core modules and practical labs, and an optional additional 5 ECTS for an in-depth project focused on applying trustworthiness principles in LLM fine-tuning, totaling 10 ECTS.
Completion of all options is required.

Participation in teaching

07.01.2026 25.02.2026
Active in period 3 (1.1.2026–1.3.2026)

Independent study

18.02.2026 31.03.2026
Active in period 3 (1.1.2026–1.3.2026)
Active in period 4 (2.3.2026–31.5.2026)
Open University completion options
The course is also available at the Open University