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Overview

Millions of people are using AI in their working lives. So how do you stand out in this fast-moving field?

In this conversion course, you'll learn the skills required to harness the potential of AI. We'll help you build confidence in the latest tools and techniques, and where and how to apply them.

We have a proud track record of training students to become confident practitioners in AI and data science. You'll discover how to collect and interpret data, and design approaches which deliver the right results.

We'll begin by discussing the origins and development of AI. You'll learn about its strengths as well as common pitfalls. You'll build practical skills in programming, prompt engineering and AI development.

You'll then expand on this knowledge by investigating concepts such as:

• deep learning
• generative AI
• computer vision
• natural language processing
• generative AI

Our curriculum is built on the latest research and advances. Â鶹´«Ã½ is home to the UK's National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD), as well as innovative researchers at the National Edge AI Hub. We will discuss real examples of how AI is being used in various industries, and why projects succeed and fail.

As AI becomes more widely-used worldwide, organisations need people who understand how to tailor it to their needs. You'll graduate with the skills to build AI into pragmatic solutions that truly make a difference.

This conversion course is designed for applicants who do not hold a degree in computer science or a related computational field.

Quality and ranking

Professional accreditation review and recognition of professional qualifications in Europe

Professional accreditations are reviewed regularly by professional bodies to ensure they meet the latest industry practices and regulatory standards. This keeps your degree rigorous, relevant, and highly valued by employers, providing a clear pathway into your chosen career.

If you are studying an accredited degree and considering a career in Europe after graduation, it is important to stay informed about international standards. The best resource for current information is the .

This official resource provides essential details on:

• whether your profession is regulated in another country.
• the specific steps you need to take to practice abroad.
• which organisations you should contact to begin the process.

What you'll learn

Phase one: An introduction to Artificial Intelligence

Initially, you’ll be introduced to the history of artificial intelligence. You’ll explore how to use AI to solve problems, as well as the potential pitfalls.

You’ll be given a firm grounding in:

• mathematics
• programming
• statistics
• prompt engineering

You’ll learn how to handle and interpret data, and discuss data protection, privacy, security and equality.

You’ll develop skills in programming languages such as Python and R, and discover how to apply them appropriately.

Phase two: Applying AI

You’ll then take a deeper look at more advanced AI concepts, including: 

• deep learning
• large language models (LLMs)
• generative AI
• natural language processing (NLP)
• agentic AI

One skills-based module is led by the UK’s National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD), which works closely to solve problems for major partners using data. In this module, you’ll apply tools, programmes and techniques to real industry challenges.

Phase three: Capstone project

This in-depth project may consist of:

• a dissertation on an AI topic
• a research project focusing on a real AI challenge

You may use this project to explore an AI problem in your own field, or one that supports your career goals.

Modules

The module information on our course pages is intended to provide an example of what you will study.

Our teaching is informed by research. Course content changes periodically to reflect developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.

Full details of the modules on offer will be published through the Programme Regulations and Specifications ahead of each academic year. This usually happens in May.

Some courses have optional modules. Student demand for optional modules may affect availability.

Artificial Intelligence MSc modules

Compulsory Modules	Credits
Programme and Machine Learning	20
Foundations of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence	20
Data Science and AI in Practice	20
Deep Learning and Computer Vision	20
Natural Language Processing and Generative AI	20
Frontier Topics in Artificial Intelligence	20

 

You'll then choose one of the following optional modules:

Optional Modules	Credits
Case Study Project (Applied)	60
Individual Project in (Applied)	60

 

Module information for 2027 entry

The modules listed here show our planned 2027 curriculum, but the links connect to our live 2026 modules (as the 2027 ones are not yet live). Consequently certain new modules may not be viewable yet and some titles may differ. The updated 2027 module details will be published ahead of the academic year.

How you'll learn

Delivery and teaching methods

You'll be taught using a range of methods, including:

• lectures
• small group tutorials
• computer labs
• workshops
• data ‘bootcamps’
• flipped learning
• practical sessions
• drop-in surgeries
• supervisor meetings
• guided independent study
  
  

This course is hands-on, giving you the chance to apply the methods and techniques you’ve learned, supported by academics. You’ll gain experience using industry-standard software in a learning environment where you can ask for extra help and support.

Assessment methods

Depending on your modules, you'll be assessed through a combination of:

• Case study
• Computer assessment
• Dissertation
• Oral examination
• Practical lab report
• Portfolio
• Problem-solving exercises
• Report
• Research proposal
• Written examination

Additional assessment information

Some assessments will involve our specialist software, Numbas.

As part of the module delivered by NICD, you’ll collaborate with a group to complete an assignment and deliver an oral presentation, which will contribute to your assessment.

You’ll demonstrate your software coursework for the AI modules, giving you the chance to showcase your practical abilities and how you’ve applied your learning.

Wellbeing advisor support

The School of Computing has a dedicated Wellbeing Advisor who understands the needs of our students.

They can be a confidential listening ear and provide guidance on a range of wellbeing issues.

Student Support

Data Science resources

Before the course begins, you’ll receive a set of resources designed to support your transition into data science. These materials provide a fast-paced refresher on key mathematical concepts, helping bridge the gap between what you’ve learned previously and what you'll encounter on the course. You’ll start your course with confidence and be able to refer to the resources as your learning progresses.

Practical sessions

The course is made up of a large number of practical sessions, allowing you to try out different skills and techniques with the support of academic staff and demonstrators.

Numbas learning software

You'll have access to specialist learning software called Numbas. Developed at Â鶹´«Ã½, it's now used by mathematicians and statisticians worldwide. This innovative software allows you to work on interactive code worksheets, so you can test and refine the mathematics skills you’ll need for data science.

Maths-Aid

Students can make use of Maths-Aid, a team of experts who provide support and advice on all aspects of maths and statistics.

Statistics and Data Science clinic

During your capstone project, you’ll be supported by our Statistics and Data Science Clinic. You can book one-to-one sessions with our expert data scientists. Whether you need support with a technical issue or refining your analysis, tailored support is available to help your project progress. This support is in addition to your project supervisor.

Our staff

The course is delivered by the School of Computing.

You’ll work alongside academics who are at the forefront of research and industry collaboration, including:

• Centre for Data Science and AI: Driving the development and application of new methods for extracting the value from data.
• Statistics and Data Science: World-class research in modern statistics and data science.
• Scalable Computing: Internationally renowned for tackling research challenges in high-performance systems, data science, machine learning and data visualisation.
• National Edge AI Hub: Delivering world-class research on how innovative AI can address challenges in fields from healthcare to power-efficient electronics.

Your development

Through a module delivered by the NICD, you’ll develop key professional skills by working through real innovation processes. You’ll take a problem from initial conception through to a practical, client-focused solution.

You’ll also strengthen your teamwork and communication skills by working on a group project. You’ll learn how to present your findings clearly to non-specialist audiences.

Research skills

You’ll learn how to formulate and deliver in-depth and data-driven research projects. Key skills will include formulating robust hypotheses, selecting appropriate analytical methods, analysing data and communicating findings in a clear and compelling way. 

Practical skills

This course provides you with the foundation to tackle a variety of workplace challenges, including:

• collecting, managing and interpreting data
• using programming languages and statistical software to present data to different audiences
• building confidence in industry-standard AI toolkits such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, NLTK and Hugging Face
• understanding different machine learning techniques, and how to apply them appropriately to challenges
• harnessing AI to address problems in different fields, while using computational resources efficiently

Work experience opportunities

While this course does not include a formal placement, you will gain practical experience through working with our industry partners on real-world projects. 

Our Careers Service also offers support in securing work experience and placements.

Your future

Our Careers Service

Our expert Careers Service is here to help you take the next steps in your professional life. We will support you while you’re studying with us and for up to three years after you graduate.

You will have access to expert one-to-one advice and guidance through our campus careers centre and online, along with digital resources, workshops, networking opportunities, and careers and recruitment events.

We’ve been awarded 5 QS Stars for Student Employability (2025). Many of our degrees are shaped by strong links with national and international businesses. We are committed to helping you access real-world experience opportunities and develop key skills through paid work placements and internships.

Visit our Careers Service website

Facilities

Urban Sciences Building

The School of Computing is based in the £58 million Urban Sciences Building (USB), a flagship development located on the £350 million Â鶹´«Ã½ Helix regeneration site in the heart of Â鶹´«Ã½. Â鶹´«Ã½ Helix brings together:

• academia
• the public sector
• communities
• business and industry

The USB is a living laboratory and has over 4,000 sensors that record detailed research data, which can be used in student projects.

Helix is home to both the and the , making it a vibrant space for AI and data science exploration and partnerships.

As a student, you'll have access to facilities including:

• 300+ PCs
• large, flexible computer clusters
• collaborative spaces for study or group projects
• dedicated practical space for postgraduate students
• Urban Café

The School of Computing also has state-of-the-art technology enabling research into data visualisation. This includes:

• a stereoscopic wall display
• a large touchscreen display
• eye trackers
• hand-tracking devices
• VR headsets

As postgraduate students, you will have access to specialist teaching spaces and facilities in the USB.

Wellbeing and inclusivity are at the heart of our School. The USB has several wellbeing spaces for students, including a prayer room for all faiths and none. This space can be used for prayer or quiet reflection.

Explore the Urban Sciences Building

Learn more about the Â鶹´«Ã½ Helix

Find out more about our wellbeing and computing facilities

Urban Sciences Building

The School of Computing is based in the £58 million Urban Sciences Building (USB), a flagship development located on the £350 million Â鶹´«Ã½ Helix regeneration site in the heart of Â鶹´«Ã½. It brings together:

• academia
• the public sector
• communities
• business and industry

Postgraduate student facilities

As a Master's student, you'll have access to specialist teaching spaces and facilities in the USB. These are only available to postgraduate students.

Wellbeing and inclusivity are at the heart of our School. The USB has several wellbeing spaces for students, including a prayer room for all faiths and none. This space can be used for prayer or quiet reflection.

Fees, Funding and Scholarships

Tuition fees for 2027 entry (per year)

Tuition fee increases

As a general principle, you should expect the tuition fee to increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, subject to government regulations on fee increases and in line with inflation.

EU, other EEA and Swiss nationals - tuition fee status

Depending on your residency history, if you’re a student from the EU, other EEA or a Swiss national, with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you’ll normally pay the ‘Home’ tuition fee rate and may be eligible for Student Finance England support.

EU students without settled or pre-settled status will normally be charged fees at the ‘International’ rate and will not be eligible for Student Finance England support. You may be eligible for a scholarship worth 25% off the international fee. Search our funding database. 

Scholarships

We support our EU and international students by providing a generous range of Vice-Chancellor's automatic and merit-based scholarships. See our searchable postgraduate funding page for more information. 

Search for funding and scholarships

Find funding available for your course

Select your country

What you're paying for

Tuition fees include the costs of:

• matriculation
• registration
• tuition (or supervision)
• library access
• examination
• re-examination
• graduation

Find out more about:

• living costs
• tuition fees

Deposit

If you are an international student or a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland and you need a visa to study in the UK, you may have to pay a deposit.

You can check this in the How to apply section.

Funding deadlines

If you're applying for funding, always check the funding application deadline. This deadline may be earlier than the application deadline for your course.

For some funding schemes, you need to have received an offer of a place on a course before you can apply for the funding.

How to apply

Open days and events

Find out about how you can visit Â鶹´«Ã½ in person and virtually

Overseas events

We regularly travel overseas to meet with students interested in studying at Â鶹´«Ã½.

Visit our events calendar for the latest events