What are digital twins and why are they a key technology today?
A digital twin is an exact virtual replica of a physical object, process or system. This replica is fed by real-time data from connected sensors ( IoT ) and, thanks to technologies such as artificial intelligence and Big Data and cloud computing, it is capable of simulating, analysing and predicting the behaviour of the real-world asset without jeopardising production.
The global market for digital twins is growing at an estimated annual rate of 40 per cent until 2032 and is projected to exceed 40,000 million dollars by 2035, according to data from the technology sector. In 2025 alone, publications, patents and projects related to this technology increased by 42 per cent compared with the previous year.
In Spain, demand for professionals specialising in digital twins has soared in sectors such as manufacturing, defence, aeronautics, energy and smart cities. The shortage of professionals who combine traditional engineering with data analytics and AI has made these experts one of the most sought-after resources in the technology market.
How is the Master’s in Digital Twins and AI for Industry structured?
The programme is organised as a single-year course divided into two four-month terms, with a total of 60 ECTS credits. It is delivered 100 per cent online, with live classes and 24-hour access to recorded sessions, allowing you to balance your studies with your professional commitments.
The Master’s programme is spearheaded and led by Talgo, in collaboration with Siemens, which provides its software and real-world use cases from the industrial sector. This direct link with industry is one of the programme’s distinguishing features: you learn using the very same tools employed in real professional settings.
| Term | Modules | ECTS credits |
| First term | 5 compulsory + 2 supplementary | 30 compulsory + 12 supplementary |
| Second term | 5 compulsory modules (including work placements and final-year project) | 30 |
| Total | 10 modules + 2 supplementary modules | 60 ECTS |
In addition, the programme incorporates micro-credentials in Generative AI (using tools such as ChatGPT and Copilot) and in Leadership and Soft Skills, designed to round out your professional profile beyond technical knowledge.
Which modules are studied in the first term?
The first term lays the technological foundations of the master’s programme. Here, you will acquire the fundamentals of simulation, industrial connectivity, applied artificial intelligence and cybersecurity , which are the pillars upon which digital twin systems are built.
Multiphysics Simulation and Digital Twins (6 ECTS)
This is the core module of the Master’s programme. You will learn to model complex physical systems that combine different disciplines (mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism) within a single simulation environment. The aim is for you to be able to create accurate virtual replicas of a real-world asset, whilst understanding the mathematical and computational principles underpinning them.
Cloud Architectures and Big Data for Industrial Environments (6 ECTS)
Digital twins generate and consume large volumes of data. This module trains you in cloud infrastructures (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) and in Big Data required to store, process and utilise this information efficiently in industrial contexts.
Smart Sensors, IoT and Industrial Communications (6 ECTS)
Without real-time data, a digital twin is not possible. In this module, you will study the types of sensors used in industry, industrial communication protocols (OPC-UA, MQTT, Modbus) and the architecture of IoT networks that connect the physical world with the digital world.
Artificial Intelligence and Predictive Maintenance in Industry 4.0 (6 ECTS)
Predictive maintenance is one of the most valuable applications of digital twins. This module teaches you how to apply machine learning algorithms to anticipate machinery failures, reduce unplanned downtime and optimise maintenance cycles based on real data.
Industrial Cybersecurity in Smart Systems (6 ECTS)
Connecting an industrial plant to the internet brings new risks. This module addresses the specific threats to OT (Operations Technology) environments, the vulnerabilities of industrial control systems (SCADA, PLC) and strategies for protecting digital assets without compromising production operations.
What are the complementary modules of the Master’s programme?
The curriculum includes two supplementary modules designed to bring students up to speed who are entering the Master’s programme from disciplines that are not strictly technical or who need to strengthen their foundations in physical engineering:
- Industrial Electronics and Automatic Control for Digital Twins (6 ECTS): covers the principles of power electronics and the automatic control systems that govern industrial processes, which are essential for modelling them correctly in a virtual environment.
- Applied Mechanics, Design and Testing of Machinery for Digital Twins (6 ECTS): this module covers the fundamentals of structural mechanics, machinery dynamics and physical testing techniques that enable the construction of accurate digital models of industrial equipment.
These modules are not compulsory for all students: their inclusion in your study programme will depend on your entry profile and the recommendations of the programme’s academic team.
Which modules make up the second term?
The second term focuses on practical application. Here, you will apply everything you have learnt to real-world projects, delve deeper into data-driven industrial decision-making, and round off your training with a work placement and your Master’s Thesis.
Data Analytics in Digital Twins (6 ECTS)
This module trains you in advanced data analysis techniques for data derived from digital twins themselves: time series, regression models, anomaly detection and visualisation of results. The aim is to enable you to extract actionable insights from the data generated by connected industrial systems, applying principles of data science.
Intelligent and Decision-Making Systems in Industry (6 ECTS)
Beyond the data, the value lies in the decision. This module covers expert systems, process optimisation and decision-support models that enable industrial managers to act in a more agile and informed manner.
Industrial Applications of Digital Twins and Artificial Intelligence (6 ECTS)
This is the most comprehensive module in the programme. Through real-world case studies from sectors such as manufacturing, energy and logistics, you will learn to design and implement end-to-end digital twin solutions using AI, from data capture through to the generation of business value.
External Academic Placements (6 ECTS)
The placements allow you to apply all the knowledge you have acquired in a real professional environment. Thanks to the programme’s agreements with companies in the industrial and technology sectors, you will have access to projects that have a direct impact on real production processes.
Master’s Thesis (6 ECTS)
The Master’s Thesis is the project that demonstrates your maturity as a specialist. You will design and develop a comprehensive digital twin solution or AI application for industry, tackling a real-world problem under the guidance of industry experts. It is your definitive calling card for the job market.
Who is this Master’s programme aimed at?
The programme is aimed at technical professionals with a university degree in engineering (industrial, mechanical, electrical, computer science, aeronautical, telecommunications) or in related fields such as science or mathematics. It is also highly suitable for working professionals in the industrial sector who wish to lead digital transformation projects within their organisations.
No specific prior experience in digital twins is required: the curriculum itself is designed to build on the necessary technological foundations and develop them progressively over the course of the two four-month terms.
Summary
The UAX Master’s Degree in Digital Twins and AI for Industry is a 60 ECTS-credit programme, delivered 100 per cent online and lasting 9 months. Its modules cover the full lifecycle of digital twin technology: from multiphysics simulation and IoT connectivity to advanced data analytics, applied artificial intelligence and industrial cybersecurity. The programme is endorsed by Talgo and Siemens, incorporates micro-credentials in Generative AI and concludes with a work placement and a Master’s thesis. It is aimed at technical professionals and engineers who wish to specialise in one of the fastest-growing fields in today’s technology industry, with salaries ranging from 40,000 to 90,000 euros gross per annum, depending on role and experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ECTS credits does the Master’s programme have? The programme comprises 60 compulsory ECTS credits, to which up to 12 additional ECTS credits from supplementary modules may be added, depending on the student’s entry profile.
How long does the Master’s programme last and when does it start? The programme lasts 9 months and is scheduled to start in October.
Is it necessary to know how to programme to enrol on the Master’s programme? It is not a strict requirement, although a basic knowledge of programming (Python, Matlab or similar) is recommended given the technical nature of the programme. The supplementary modules allow students with a weaker technical background to catch up.
What software is used on the Master’s programme? Thanks to our partnership with Siemens, the programme utilises real professional tools from the industrial sector that are used in digital twin projects on a global scale.
Is the Master’s degree officially recognised? As it is an official university Master’s degree, the qualification is valid throughout Spain and is recognised by the university system of the European Higher Education Area.
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