Self-driving Cars University of Tartu

Overview

On-site in Tartu 27 July - 7 August 2026

Autonomous driving represents a transformative shift in modern transportation, combining cutting-edge advancements in machine learning, robotics, and real-time systems engineering. By enabling vehicles to navigate and operate independently, this technology aims to enhance safety, reduce traffic congestion, and revolutionize mobility solutions. Central to autonomous driving is the development of algorithms and systems that allow vehicles to perceive their surroundings, interpret data from sensors, and make intelligent decisions. The field draws on interdisciplinary expertise, providing an exciting challenge for researchers and developers looking to shape the future of transportation.

The course ''Self-driving Cars'' introduces basic concepts of self-driving cars using the software developed at the University of Tartu Autonomous Driving Labs as an example. The students implement core components of the modular autonomy stack from scratch in the Python programming language. They will test their software in the virtual Tartu simulation, which is a decimetre-level digital twin of the real city. The course ends with a demo ride in a self-driving Lexus vehicle that uses the very same software covered in the course

Learning outcomes:

Upon completion of the course, a student will be able to:

• can understand the software implemented in Robot Operating System (ROS);
• can describe the modular architecture of the autonomous driving systems;
• can implement core modules for modular architecture: perception, planning, and control;
• can explain different approaches to the planning and control of autonomous vehicles;
• has an overview of possible validation and testing methods for autonomous driving.

Accreditation

Every seven years, all Estonian higher education institutions must undergo external evaluation – institutional accreditation. The latest assessment took place in 2022. The assessment council of the Estonian Quality Agency for Education decided to accredit the University of Tartu for the next seven years (2023-2029).