Influence the future with our MSc in AI for a Sustainable Development at Birmingham. Our innovative programme will equip you with the skills and knowledge to drive ethical tech solutions and impactful change through interdisciplinary learning and real-world projects.
Our course will help you kickstart your career by empowering you to lead in ethical tech innovation. Gain the expertise to influence global policies, drive sustainable solutions, and make a lasting impact through interdisciplinary and practical learning.
We equip passionate learners to spearhead ethical, empowering AI innovation globally. Our pioneering programme offers interdisciplinary training critical for responsible technology. By bridging computer science foundations with policy contexts, we produce versatile, well-rounded AI leaders. Graduates become strategic facilitators of AI deployments that advance access, inclusion and human rights locally and internationally.
This course will run over 12 months in a full-time mode. There is also scope to undertake the programme on a part-time basis for Home students.
In the first semester, you'll undertake three core 20-credit modules that will allow you to explore how AI advances global sustainability through ethical governance and participatory design. You will then master modern data science techniques, including supervised learning and data mining, and develop robust programming skills to tackle diverse data science challenges.
Additionally, you must also select one 20-credit optional module from our AI, Policy, and Government module list. Assessment includes group work, exams, and assignments throughout the semester.
This programme offers rigorous interdisciplinary training, integrating AI with social sciences to tackle global challenges. You’ll gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge techniques, from machine learning to policy analysis, while focusing on impactful, responsible technology deployment. With a breadth of expertise and optional modules available to develop a broader perspective, you’ll graduate equipped and confident to lead in diverse roles, driving meaningful change in underserved communities and beyond.
Established in August 2023, the Department of Public Administration and Policy (DPAP) leads the study of (inter)national, regional and local public administration and public policy.
Teaching will utilise a range of learning methods, including lectures, workshops and seminars as well as blended learning support.
The programme is composed of six 20-credit core modules completed by 20 credits to choose across a range of optional International Development modules. To complete this and graduate with the 180 credits that will award you the MSc, you will have to undertake a 60-credit dissertation project.
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.
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.
Standard Entry Requirements:
Applicants who meet the Bachelor's degree requirement but do not meet the mathematical prerequisites may be offered conditional admission, subject to successful completion of the Mathematics for AI and Data Science microcredential prior to the application deadline.
All applicants are required to provide detailed evidence of their qualifications at the point of application. Applications cannot be considered without this supporting documentation.
If you have undertaken studies outside the UK and have not taken A Levels, you can check if you hold a suitable equivalent qualification.
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.
For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:
Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.
Full-time
Part-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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
Application Fee
For international applicants this programme is subject to a £50 non-refundable application fee. At the end of the application form, before you can submit it to us, you will be required to pay, or indicate how you will pay the required fee in order for us to process your application. Please complete and submit your application before paying your application fee.
Personal Statement
Entry to this programme is highly competitive and as a result your application and personal statement will be closely scrutinised by our Admissions Tutors. Please ensure that you spend some time familiarising yourself with the programme modules and outcomes. Personal Statements should be relevant to the programme and how you believe it will enable you to achieve your career goals.
Find out how to apply to our postgraduate taught programmes. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
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.
Open doors to a wide variety of career opportunities with our MSc in AI and Sustainable Development. This interdisciplinary programme equips you with the technical and ethical expertise to drive responsible AI innovation, preparing you for impactful roles in NGOs, governments, and international organisations. You’ll gain hands-on experience and a global perspective, ready to address real-world challenges in sustainability, inequality, and governance.
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.
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.
