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Course overview
Launch your career in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence and machine learning. As huge advances change our world, get prepared for an exciting future.
Discover and understand what current generation AIs can do, and the ethical considerations so you’re prepared for a range of in-demand careers. With your mathematical background, our course will open up a world of opportunity in roles such as app developer, machine learning engineer, games developer or tech consultant.
Course Structure
Our MSc is a 12-month full-time advanced course, comprising of lectures, coursework assignments, student presentations, individual study and a research project.
This term focusses on theoretical foundations and scientific principles of AI and Machine Learning, as well as some of their core methodologies. You'll complete compulsory modules which will provide you with mathematical tools to formulate, analyse and understand AI and Machine Learning systems. You'll also have a choice of specialised optional modules.
Teaching is delivered predominantly through lectures, with assessment provided using a mix of coursework and examination.
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Course highlights
You’ll learn about the advanced principles of AI and ML, and how machines can perceive, explore and understand the world around us. Deepen your understanding of mathematical tools and how they’re used for machine intelligence tasks. Apply your knowledge with an in-dept research project and work with our world-leading researchers.
- Network with staff working in industry, worldwide
- Benefit from our partnership with The Alan Turing Institute - the UK's national institute for data science and AI
- Study a programme regularly updated to industry standards
- Take advantage of our state-of-the-art facilities
- 6th
in the UK - Complete University Guide 2025
Deploy autonomous, intelligent robots in security and health support facilities
Take part in impactful research, such as award-winning methods for diagnosing skin cancer
Course delivery
Teaching is driven by our world-leading research in AI, Machine Learning and Natural Computation. During the Summer term you'll work within research groups on an original research project.
- Learn about cutting-edge developments in your chosen areas of interest, with lectures delivered by world-leaders in their fields
- Engage in tutorials and seminars that promote independent problem-solving and enquiry-based learning
- Develop a spectrum of skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, time management, and communication through project work
- Benefit from 1:1 supervision that offers personalised learning which gives you the opportunity to get tailored guidance and feedback that meets your individual needs
Lecture
Tutorial
Seminar
Projects
Practical assignments
Module information
The course consists of 180 credits. As well as 3 x 20 credit compulsory modules and 1 x 60 credit compulsory project, you also have the chance to choose up to 60 credits from a range of optional, specialist modules.
The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.
As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.
2025/26
Core modules
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Project | 60 | Semester 2 |
| Current Topics in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Mathematical Foundations of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) | 20 | Semester 1 |
Optional modules
Select 80 credits, examples of options:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Vision and Imaging (Extended) | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Evolutionary Computation (Extended) | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Intelligent Data Analysis | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Intelligent Robotics (Extended) | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Natural Language Processing (Extended) | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Neural Computation (Extended) | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Robot Vision | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Visualisation | 20 | Semester 2 |
Teaching staff
Professor Peter Tino
Programme Director
staff profile for Professor Peter Tino for the School of Computer Science
Entry requirements
To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
- 2:1 Honours degree
in a numerate discipline (Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Economics)
Or another programme with mathematics content (calculus linear algebra, statistics, probability). If your modules have a different module title but cover this content, please make this clear when applying. You should also have passed mathematics related modules with at least a good 2:1 level score.
English language requirements
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:
- TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
- Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
- LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill
English Presessional Programmes
If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.
If you are unsure if you meet our entry requirements, you can also contact the admissions department to discuss whether your application would be considered.
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, supervision, assessment and includes membership to the Guild of Students.
- £13,040
Full-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Paying your tuition fees
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
Scholarships
To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.
Postgraduate Masters Loan
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
Birmingham Masters Scholarships
We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
- 29 August 2025
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
How to apply to our taught courses
Find out how to apply to our postgraduate taught programmes. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question about our admissions process, including how to apply, your offer and how to track your application, please visit our admissions portal.
Career opportunities
This course will provide you with the right skills and knowledge to tackle immediate, real-world problems. you'll be equipped to recognise what current generation AIs can and cannot do in order to make informed decisions about how AI techniques should be used in the real world.
You may choose a graduate role in environments including: Machine Learning Engineer, AI Developer, Research Scientist, Technology Consultant or Data Scientist
You may also choose careers in teaching, research or technology development at universities both in the UK and overseas
Your career prospects are great and specialist computing graduates with a good degree are in demand. Plus, with the number of computer science graduates from the UK diminishing at the same time as jobs increasing, students with a postgraduate degree have an excellent chance of securing employment
Careers Network
Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.
Built in Birmingham. Forged for the future.
Find out why we are the most targeted UK university by top graduate employers (High Fliers report, The Graduate Market 2024) by meeting some of our successful alumni.
Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation will allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Living in Birmingham
As one of the original pioneering cities, Birmingham is a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
Campus life
Our green and spacious campus is the place where our community comes together to learn, relax and socialise. Like a town of its own, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Take a virtual tour
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.