Â鶹´«Ã½

Overview

Autonomous technology enables us to push the boundaries of research, innovation and exploration, from the deepest oceans to the human body.

In the age of advanced AI, how do we use this technology to develop safer and more intelligent innovations?

This course combines advanced AI training and the study of autonomous systems.

With the help of AI experts, you’ll discover which tools and techniques are best suited to certain challenges, and build on your knowledge of themes such as machine learning, deep learning and data science.

You'll then investigate how these technologies are being used in autonomous systems, including:

• how these systems build a picture of the world
• the sensors and cameras that make up a device, and how everything works together
• the decisions and ethics involved in creating autonomous systems
• the possibilities and pitfalls of introducing advanced and emerging AI technologies

Our career-focused curriculum also features industry-based projects which test your creativity, problem-solving and analytical abilities.

You’ll be taught by accomplished professionals, including specialists at the . Â鶹´«Ã½ is home to the , which is using the latest AI advances to solve global challenges. You'll also work with world-class experts at Future Mobility, who are investigating the future of sustainable, autonomous travel.

Learn what it takes to make a difference in this challenging yet fascinating field.

Who this course is for

This is a technical course for students with academic or work-related experience in a mathematics, computing or engineering subject.

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: Mastering Data Science and AI

You’ll begin by developing an advanced knowledge of data-driven systems and artificial intelligence. You’ll enhance your expertise in statistics and computer science, and explore themes such as machine learning, and deep learning with probabilistic modelling.

We will then introduce more advanced technical models, exploring aspects such as:

• professionalism
• legislation
• ethics

Phase two: AI in Autonomous Systems

You will then explore how autonomous systems work, and the various technologies that go into making them work effectively in the real world.

You will discuss facets of autonomous engineering such as world models and sensors, learn how to derive valuable insights from data, and discover how AI is integrated into autonomous models.

Phase three: Capstone project

This in-depth research project will allow you to showcase your understanding of both AI and autonomous systems. 

It may consist of: 

• a research dissertation on an AI and autonomous systems topic
• an individual project related to AI and autonomous systems. This could involve examining a real-world problem, or designing a prototype

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.

Advanced Artificial Intelligence with Autonomous Systems MSc modules

Compulsory Modules	Credits
Data Science and AI in Practice	20
Frontier Topics in Artificial Intelligence	20
Machine Learning, Deep Learning with Probabilistic Modelling	20
Reinforcement Learning	20
Foundations of Autonomous Systems	20
AI in Embodied Autonomous Systems	20

 

You'll then choose one 60 credit module from the following:

Optional Modules	Credits
Case Study Project (Advanced)	60
Individual Project (Advanced)	60
Individual Project	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, some titles may differ, and certain new modules may not be viewable yet. Some modules are also listed as inactive, but will be active for 2027 entry. The updated 2027 module details will be published ahead of the academic year.

How you'll learn

Delivery and teaching methods

You will be taught using a range of methods, including:

• lectures
• seminars
• practical sessions
• individual projects
• group projects
• guided independent study
• self-directed learning

Assessment methods

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

• Oral presentation
• Problem-solving exercises
• Report

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.

Support

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.

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.

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

Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to support from:

• academic staff
• academic advisers and research supervisors
• our University Student Services Team
• student representatives
• peers

You'll also be assigned an academic member of staff, who will be your academic adviser throughout your time with us. They can help with academic and personal issues.

Your teaching and learning is also supported by Canvas. Canvas is a Virtual Learning Environment. You'll use Canvas to submit your assignments and access your:

• module handbooks
• course materials
• groups
• course announcements and notifications
• written feedback

 

Our staff

The course is delivered by:

• School of Computing
• School of Engineering

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.
• Future Mobility: A world-leading multidisciplinary centre for sustainable, automated, connected, resilient and inclusive mobility.
• National Edge AI Hub: Delivering world-class research on how innovative AI can address challenges in fields from healthcare to power-efficient electronics.

We are also home to the  which collaborates with industry partners across multiple sectors.

We have established links with many leading national and global companies, who help to shape the curriculum and offer guest speakers as well as networking and mentoring opportunities.

Your development

You’ll build practical expertise in statistical methods, machine learning and deep learning, and develop hands-on skills in visualisation and the analysis of complex data.

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. 

You will also build confidence in AI-focused technical evaluation.

Practical skills

You’ll graduate with the ability to apply your skills to real-world challenges.

These include:

• applying computing, mathematical and statistical techniques to data storage and analysis
• using modern programming languages, libraries and AI frameworks
• how to use and control industry-standard robotics and AI software
• how to design the right systems and tools for a particular problem
• how to interpret data from autonomous systems 
• building, training and evaluating predictive models across a range of data domains

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.

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

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

Stephenson Building

The Stephenson Building is a £110 million investment in world-class education, research and collaboration across Engineering.

It’s a place for future engineers, researchers and designers to collaborate and tackle global challenges, together.

You'll have access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities including:

• Robotics Laboratory
• The Makerspace
• Fabrication Facilities
• Electronics Laboratories

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